Right Cervical Cannulation for VA-ECMO Support

In this video, the authors show how to start veno-arterial ECMO support (VA-ECMO) through cervical cannulation, using the right internal jugular vein and right common carotid artery. This site is chosen over the femoral approach, as it avoids the associated complications, particularly in newborns and non-walking infants. In patients who require ECMO after a cardiac operation, an initial transthoracic approach is established. Cervical cannulation is a method to move the cannulas away from the chest, and to allow delayed chest closure in such patients, while continuing ECMO support. Cervical cannulation can be performed at the bedside, in an emergency setting, and during cardiac massage.