Effect of venoarterial ECMO on LV afterload – Cardiology MCQ – Answer

Effect of venoarterial ECMO on left ventricular afterload: Correct answer: b. Increases

Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is used as a mechanical circulatory support for cardiogenic shock. But it results in increased left ventricular afterload which can have deleterious effects like myocardial ischemia, delayed left ventricular recovery, ventricular arrhythmias and pulmonary edema.

Several interventions have been used to unload the left ventricle during VA-ECMO. The most commonly used strategy is intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP). Other less frequently used methods are percutaneous left ventricular assist device and pulmonary vein or transseptal left atrial cannulation and decompression.

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