The use of CRRT in ECMO patients

Extracorporeal life support (ECLS) is an effective therapy used for patients who are severely hypoxic as well as those with cardiogenic shock. Many of these patients require continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) as they are too unstable for intermittent haemodialysis. Prognosis of patients who are on ECMO tends to do worse if they develop acute renal failure during the ECMO run resulting in the requirement for dialysis. According to the ELSO registry, the mortality of patients requiring renal replacement therapy (RRT) on ECLS is increased. There are various ways to connect a CRRT circuit onto an ECMO circuit. Each method has its advantages and disadvantages. Separate access for CRRT is recommended.