Heparin-free veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation as a bridge therapy for airway interventions in malignant central airway obstruction: Case series and literature review.
Siyu Yang, Zhenshun Cheng, Qing Liu et al.
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Case in brief
Three patients with malignant central airway obstruction (MCAO) presented with severe respiratory failure due to bronchial obstruction from tumors. Conventional intubation was ineffective, leading to the initiation of heparin-free veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) for gas exchange support. Following ECMO, all patients underwent successful airway interventions, resulting in immediate improvement in oxygenation.
Diagnostic / clinical pearl
VV-ECMO can be an effective bridge therapy for patients with MCAO undergoing high-risk airway interventions, particularly when traditional ventilation methods fail.
Why it matters
The use of a heparin-free protocol during VV-ECMO may provide a safe alternative for short-term support, highlighting the importance of tailored anticoagulation strategies in complex cases.