Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Pediatric Patients with Congenital Heart Disease: Surgical Considerations.

The use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in the pediatric population has increased over time, with the ability to rescue pulmonary and cardiovascular deterioration. ECMO can be utilized by neonates and children with congenital heart disease in both the preoperative and post-operative setting to improve survival and minimize morbidity. ECMO cannulation strategy must be tailored to age, weight and physiological state of the patient. Careful patient selection and rapid deployment of ECMO may improve survival and morbidity in patients with CHD.