How to avoid rapid carbon dioxide changes at the start of veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: Role of end-tidal CO2 monitoring

Background: Venovenous ECMO is a lifesaving technique for patients with severe respiratory failure. Management of carbon dioxide (CO2) levels at ECMO start is crucial, as recent studies found an association between rapid CO2 shifts and increased incidence of neurological complications. Purpose: To describe the role of end tidal CO2 (etCO(2)) monitoring at the ECMO start to minimize carbon dioxide shifts. Research design: Retrospective cohort study. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of patients who started venovenous ECMO support at our institution between 2011 and 2021. We analysed the minute-by-minute variations of etCO(2), ventilatory parameters and arterial blood gas before and after the ECMO start. Results: 36 patients with a complete dataset of parameters were included. After the ECMO start, minute ventilation was progressively reduced from 10.8 +/-;3.3 to 2.9 +/- 1.2 L/min (p<0.001). etCO(2) did not vary significantly (baseline 37 +/- 10 vs 35 +/- 9 mmHg 20 minutes after ECMO start, p = 0.36). Despite a stable etCO(2) level, a mild drop of arterial CO2 tension (9.5 mmHg, corresponding to a 18% change) was recorded at the first ABG sampled after the ECMO start. No patient developed neurological complications after the ECMO commencement. Conclusion: etCO(2) monitoring during ECMO start is feasible and allows to adjust gas flow and ventilator settings to limit changes in arterial CO2 levels.

Automated summary

This retrospective cohort study explored the role of end tidal CO2 (etCO(2)) monitoring during venovenous ECMO start. The findings suggest that etCO(2) monitoring is feasible and can help adjust gas flow and ventilator settings to minimize changes in arterial CO2 levels.