Delta P on ECMO

Q: What does Delta P on ECMO's every day monitoring signifies?



Answer: The difference between the pressures on pre and post membrane outlets provides the transmembrane pressure gradient. An increase in the trans-membrane pressure gradient indicates clot formation within the oxygenator. The trans-membrane pressure gradient should stay less than 50 mm Hg. If high, it requires proper anti-coagulation or may be the replacement of oxygenator.


#ECMO


References:  

1. Adult Extra Corporeal membrane Oxygenation (ECMO); Policy & Guideline. RPAH 2010 

2. Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) in the Intensive Care Unit. St Vincent’s Hospital Sydney ICU 2010 3. Marasco, S.F., Lukas, G., McDonald, M., McMillan, J., & Ihle, B. (2008).

3.Review of ECMO (Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation) support in critically ill adult patients. Heart, Lung and Circulation, 17S: S41-S47.