Temporary cardiopulmonary support. When, what, and how?

Since the invention of the first heart-lung machine in the 1950s, there has been tremendous progress towards smaller and more efficient devices for extracorporeal circulation (ECC). Today, various types and models of assist devices for temporary support of cardiac and pulmonary function are available. These systems can be active (with a pump) or passive using arterial pressure to transport the blood through the extracorporeal components. Within this extracorporeal circulation, the blood is oxygenated and/or only CO2 is eliminated from the blood. Finally, the blood is transported back into the venous or arterial system. This article explains the different modes of temporary extracorporeal life systems (ECLS) as well as their indications, risk and management.