Veno-arterial-ECMO in the intensive care unit: From technical aspects to clinical practice

International audience; The use of Veno-Arterial ExtraCorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA-ECMO) as a salvage therapy in cardiogenic shock is becoming of current practice. While VA-ECMO is potentially a life-saving technique, results are sometimes mitigated, emphasizing the need for selecting the right indication in the right patient. This relies upon a clear definition of the individual therapeutic project, including the potential for recovery as well as the possible complications associated with VA-ECMO. To maximize the benefits of VA-ECMO, the basics of extracorporeal circulation should be perfectly understood since VA-ECMO can sometimes be detrimental. Hence, to be successful, VA-ECMO should be used by teams with sufficient experience and initiated after a thorough multidisciplinary discussion considering patient’s medical history, pathology as well the anticipated evolution of the disease.