What is the difference between ECMO and CP Bypass?

What is the difference between ECMO and CP Bypass?

Not withstanding different cannulation procedures, the difference between ECMO and CPB is essentially time and purpose:

ECMO is used for long term support to allow recovery of the lungs and/or heart

CPB is used for a matter of hours to provide support during cardiac procedures

Not withstanding different cannulation procedures, the difference between ECMO and CPB is essentially time and purpose:

ECMO is used for long term support to allow recovery of the lungs and/or heart

CPB is used for a matter of hours to provide support during cardiac procedures

Does AV ECMO and cardiopulm bypass maintain pulsatile flow? Does it sync with the heart like an aortic balloon pump? Or is the flow continuous and non-pulsatile?

Interesting question.... anyone know the answer?

No. While VAD's (Ventricular Assist Devices) do maintain pulsatile flow, CPB does not. That's why in the heart room on bypass your aline tracing is flat. The pressure that is transduced is MAP.

With V-A ECMO, on the other hand, you will get an a-line tracing, although it usually isn't completely normal. In CPB, the heart is stopped, whereas with V-A ECMO, the heart is being supported but retains some function, however meager and pathetic. V-V ECMO supports only the lungs, so obviously your a-line should be pretty normal looking.