Modifying a venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit to reduce recirculation

Lung rest is the primary goal of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygena tion for severe acute respiratory failure. To achieve this there has to be adequate extracorporeal flow. This can be achieved by a two-cannula techniq ue in most cases. In some cases, extra flow is either not achievable or cau ses excessive recirculation. We report 8 patients in whom we achieved adequ ate blood and oxygen delivery using a three-cannula technique. Five patient s survived (62.5%). (C) 2000 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.