Both types of ECMO involve inserting two cannulas—one for draining the blood from venous system (SVC/IVC) to ECMO circuit, the other one—for returning the oxygenated blood either to RA (VV) or to arterial system (VA).

How does ECMO cannulation work?

The procedure by which a healthcare provider places these tubes in a patient is called cannulation. The ECMO machine pumps blood from the patient's body to an artificial lung (oxygenator) that adds oxygen to it and removes carbon dioxide. Thus, it replaces the function of the person's own lungs.

How do you Cannulate a patient for ECMO?

V-V ECMO. V-V or veno-venous ECMO, supports lung function primarily. The surgeon will place the cannulae in a large vein only, usually in the neck. Based on the patient's age and condition, the surgeon may choose to place one special cannula in a single vein or place two cannulae in two different veins.