Abstract
Due to significant technical development, a method of veno-arterial extracorporeal
membrane oxygenation (VA ECMO) has nowadays moved from cardiovascular operation theaters
to intensive care units. The same is true also for implantation procedure, which is
increasingly performed by intensivists, interventional cardiologists and radiologists.
Cannulation for VA ECMO can be performed percutaneously or surgically. The two methods
are not competitive but should be viewed as complementary. Percutaneous or surgical
insertion each has it benefits and pitfalls. In the following article we review advantages
and disadvantages of each approach. The best approach should be chosen individually
depending on clinical setting and patient needs.
