A proposed objective scale for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation circuit thrombosis

Abstract

Patients undergoing extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) are susceptible to thrombosis, which is a major cause of death and morbidity. However, there is no objective ECMO thrombosis grading scale to standardize evaluation, guide treatment, and facilitate further research. In this letter, we propose an objective grading scale for ECMO circuit thrombosis based on physical characteristics and location within the circuit. This ECMO thrombosis scale will allow for protocolized escalation of ECMO thrombosis treatment, ranging from watchful observation, intensified anticoagulation, and circuit exchange.