RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS
The use of ECMO comes with risks. The most common risks include:
Patient-related complications:
• Blood clot( thromboembolism)
• Blood clotting disorder( coagulopathy)
• Infection
• Loss of blood flow in hands, feet, or legs( limb ischemia, which can lead to amputation)
• Seizures
• Stroke( part of the brain is damaged by loss of blood or by a blood vessel that bursts)
• ICU delirium( confusion)/ ICU-induced anxiety
• Death
ECMO equipment-related complications:
• Air embolism( air bubble)
• Clotting
• Bleeding, hematoma( a bad bruise or collection of blood), or aneurysm( weakening of blood vessel) at the cannula site
• Cannulae getting out of position or dislodged
• Equipment failure( leading to possible change of pump or oxygenator)
Blood transfusions often are required for patients on ECMO, to make sure their blood counts stay up and that they are getting enough oxygen. Each transfusion carries its own risks, but our blood bank runs many tests to make sure the blood products are as safe as possible.
Complications can occur during the placement of these cannulae. Usually they are placed in blood vessels within the neck and groin. The longer a patient is on ECMO, the greater the risk of any complication. Over time, complications from ECMO can involve other organs such as the kidneys, liver, or bowel. These organs may begin to fail. If this occurs, additional therapies or surgical procedures may be needed to support the affected organs.
6 Family Guide for Patients Who Need ECMO