Veno-veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for acute respiratory distress syndrome with septic-induced cardiomyopathy due to severe pulmonary tuberculosis

Abstract

We describe the rare experience of veno-veno-arterial (VVA) extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in a patient with acute respiratory distress syndrome and septic-induced cardiomyopathy due to pulmonary tuberculosis (TB). A 24-year-old male patient who developed septic-induced cardiomyopathy secondary to pulmonary TB was administered veno-arterial (VA) ECMO for cardiac support. Six days later, the ECMO configuration mode was changed from VA to VVA to improve hypoxemia of the upper body and to prevent further lung injury. The patient was then successfully managed using an appropriate alternative ECMO strategy.