In extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), blood is drawn out of the body via tubes, oxygenated in an artificial lung; and then pumped back into the blood vessels. This allows the supply of oxygen-rich blood to the organs (brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, intestines, etc.) to be maintained.
Continuous monitoring of cardiac function and circulatory status (blood pressure, blood flow to organs) is very important in intensive care medicine in order to control the administration of circulation-supporting medication and infusions. Various devices are routinely used for this task. However, in the specific situation of ECMO treatment, the measurements of these devices could be affected due to the artificial circulation; outside the body.
The purpose of this study is therefore to test the accuracy of different methods of circulation monitoring during ECMO treatment.
Patient receiving VV-ECMO support
Age 18 - 75 years
Pregnancy
Conditions not allowing for passive leg raising maneuvers, e.g. "open abdomen", known or suspected elevation of intracranial pressure, recent leg or spinal trauma or orthopedic conditions not permitting leg raising
Known ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within 3 months prior to study enrollment.