Cannulation and Decannulation of Extracorporeal Life Support

Both cannulation and decannulation are fundamental steps of ECMO implementation. Pertinent cannulation could guarantee adequate respiratory or circulatory support and minimize recirculation, in which reinfused oxygenated and decarbonated blood is withdrawn by the drainage cannula instead of passing through the systemic circulation. However, standardized decannulation during weaning could prevent procedure-associated complications and benefit patients’ recovery. In this chapter, ECMO cannulation involving a determination of cannulation access sites, selection of cannula with proper size as well as the procedures of cannulation technique, and decannulation targeting arteries and veins are detailly interpreted. Moreover, site, size, and method of left ventricular venting and techniques of decannulation are also similarly introduced.