A modified technique for insertion of dual lumen bicaval cannulae for venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

Abstract

Purpose: Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is used increasingly in adults with severe acute reversible respiratory failure. Cannulation is associated with a risk of vascular damage or cardiac perforation.

Methods and results: This report describes a modified technique of insertion for dual lumen bicaval cannulae. We have adopted the technique on 25 occasions and had no incidence of vascular damage or cardiac perforation.

Conclusion: We suggest that the technique may mitigate the risk of guidewire looping during insertion of the dilators/cannula and thereby reduce the risk of perforation of the right ventricle.