Novel multi-functional life support system.

UNLABELLED: Concepts of cardiopulmonary support (CPS), extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), and ventricular support (VS) have been thoroughly studied and refined. These perfusion adjuncts often require multiple devices, skill sets, and significant financial burden to purchase, maintain, deploy, and use. We describe a novel system that is rapidly deployable, user-friendly, portable, safe, and economical. Over a 1-year period we have used a multi-functional life support system (MLS) in the cardiac catheterization laboratory, cardiovascular intensive care unit, and cardiac surgical suites. Further, we have conducted multiple transports within the hospital and one to an alternate facility. Applications have included ECMO, cardiopulmonary resuscitation-supported cardiogenic shock, high risk percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), valvuloplasty, right ventricular assist device transition to ECMO post cardiotomy, left ventricular assist device transition to ECMO, ventricular septal defect closure, and ECMO transition to conventional cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Duration of support has ranged from approximately 39 minutes to several days. KEYWORDS: extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), percutaneous ventricular assist device, cardiopulmonary support, portable cardiopulmonary life support, ventricular assist.