A new approach combining venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation and CRRT for adults: a retrospective study.

PURPOSE: This study aimed to assess a new approach combining venoarterial (VA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) in adults, while monitoring CRRT circuit pressures.

METHODS: The inlet and outlet of the CRRT circuit were connected to preoxygenator port and postoxygenator port, respectively. Then, complications and CRRT circuit pressures were evaluated.

RESULTS: 7 patients underwent combined VA-ECMO and CRRT; 16 filters were used. CRRT blood flow ranged from 150 to 200 mL/min; the CRRT to ECMO blood flow ratio was <0.1. The CRRT pressures at treatment initiation were normal. No complications were reported.

CONCLUSIONS: This approach combining VA-ECMO and CRRT in adults did not compromise the accuracy of pressure monitoring systems for CRRT circuit function, and caused no complications. Hence, it may be a feasible method for performing combined VA-ECMO and CRRT in adults.