The surgical procedures usually involve permanently tying off two major blood vessels the carotid artery and the internal jugular vein. Tying off arteries has not caused blood circulation problems because other blood vessels take over the responsibility. But, if the vessels are damaged during the surgical procedure, ECMO will not be attempted. When any catheter is inserted in the blood vessel, there is an increased risk of infection. Antibiotics will be given as a precautionary measure.
Blood transfusions are also a factor.
As technology becomes increasingly advanced, the risk of an infection with a blood transfusion is minimal. As with any machinery, the ECMO machine can malfunction just as any machine can. If this occurs, the child will be immediately removed and place on traditional therapy. This can cause brain damage, organ damage, or be fatal. As always, feel free to contact us with any question that you have.