ECMO CANNULAS
The ECMO cannulas are the drainage or return tubes inserted into the patient's anatomy.
They are usually made of PVC or PU, materials that give the appropriate consistency, flexibility and resilience (ability to recover its initial shape after clamping).
The cannulas typicallyincorporate a "wired" zone to prevent kinking, and for radiographic visualization.
The walls of the cannulas are thin to maximize the internal diameter.
They are generally coated with products in their lumen, making them more biocompatible (variable between companies).
They play a significant role in determining the circuit's capacity to deliver adequate flow and support, frequently serving as a limiting factor.
