Table 2 Imaging modalities in ECMO
From: Imaging adults on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)
Imaging modality | Uses | Key characteristic |
|---|---|---|
Radiograph | Cannula positioning Pneumothorax and haemothorax Evaluation of quadrants for Murray scoring. | Initial study Widely available Comparison to priors for change |
Echocardiography | During initial placement of ECMO cannulas | Evaluate recovery of cardiac function |
Ultrasound ± Doppler | Evaluation of vascular patency Haemothorax Haematoma at cannulation site | Comparison of cannulated and non-cannulated vessels aids in evaluation of abnormal vascular waveforms |
NCCT | Malpositioned cannulas Haematoma Stroke Pulmonary/Abdominal infection Aortic stasis thrombus | Maintain resting respiratory rate to minimise motion artefact |
CECT | Pulmonary stasis thrombus Aortic stasis thrombus | Switch ECMO circuit to minimal flow status or stop the ECMO pump for the duration of the acquisition |