The Role of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation ECMO in Accidental Hypothermia and Rewarming in Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest Patients—A Literature Review

Abstract

Accidental hypothermia, defined as an unintentional drop of the body core temperature below 35 °C, is one of the causes of cardiocirculatory instability and reversible cardiac arrest. Currently, extracorporeal life support (ECLS) rewarming is recommended as a first-line treatment for hypothermic cardiac arrest patients. The aim of the ECLS rewarming is not only rapid normalization of core temperature but also maintenance of adequate organ perfusion. Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a preferred technique due to its lower anticoagulation requirements and potential to prolong circulatory support. Although highly efficient, ECMO is acknowledged as an invasive treatment option, requiring experienced medical personnel and is associated with the risk of serious complications. In this review, we aimed to discuss the clinical aspects of ECMO management in severely hypothermic cardiac arrest patients.