The Journal of heart and lung transplantation : the official publication of the International Society for Heart Transplantation
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J. Heart Lung Transplant. · Nov 2011
Heart transplant recipients supported with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: outcomes from a single-center experience.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides hemodynamic support in refractory cardiogenic shock and may be used after heart transplantation for primary graft dysfunction or rejection. We hypothesized that survival after ECMO support is contingent upon patient selection. ⋯ ECMO support is a viable option for adult heart transplant recipients with severe rejection and refractory cardiogenic shock. To maximize the benefit of this aggressive approach in heart transplant recipients requires early intervention, with a heightened awareness of this option to facilitate expedited use.