Peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for severe hyperlactataemia after cardiac surgery: a pilot study

Abstract

Background: Severe hyperlactataemia in patients after cardiac surgery is associated with poor prognosis and implies possible splanchnic hypoperfusion. Peripheral venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (splanchnic ECMO) may be more effective at reducing lactic acidosis for these patients. Objective: To investigate whether splanchnic ECMO attenuates hyperlactataemia and liver enzyme release in these patients, despite them having a cardiac index > 2 L/min/m2 and a mixed venous oxygen saturation > 55%. Design and participants: Retrospective matched case– control study of patients treated with splanchnic ECMO for hyperlactataemia. Seven patients who had had cardiac surgery were treated ..