Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, pulmonary embolectomy and right ventricular assist device for massive pulmonary embolism

Abstract Consensus regarding the management of massive pulmonary embolism (PE) and persistent shock following thrombolysis is lacking (1) . A 30 year old male collapsed with massive PE three days after an exploratory laparotomy for penetrating trauma, and he remained hypoxic and hypotensive despite thrombolytic therapy. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) was instituted as a bridge to surgical embolectomy, and placement of a right ventricular assist device (RVAD) was utilized to facilitate separation from cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). After 48 hours the RVAD was removed and the patient survived to discharge. ECMO and temporary RVAD to support surgical embolectomy are life-saving therapeutic considerations.