Venovenous ECMO:

A. Avoids major arterial access

C. Can be accomplished via cannulation at separate venous sites or at a single venous site using a double-lumen catheter.

E. Maintains the normal pulsatile blood flow to the systemic circulation.

DISCUSSION: Venovenous ECMO has become the access technique of choice for patients with respiratory failure without significant requirement for cardiac (hemodynamic) support. In neonates, a double-lumen cannula allows ECMO to be performed through a single incision over the right internal jugular vein. It can also be performed by separate cannulation of the femoral and jugular veins. In either configuration, venovenous ECMO avoids cannulation of any major arteries and maintains the normal pulsatile circulation through the heart and lungs. Venous drainage is no different with venovenous ECMO