Background

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) stands as a pivotal intervention for patients grappling with cardiopulmonary insufficiency. However, alongside its therapeutic benefits, ECMO carries the risk of complications, with acute kidney injury (AKI) emerging as a significant concern. The precise pathophysiological underpinnings of AKI in the context of ECMO remain incompletely elucidated.

Methods

A comprehensive literature review was conducted to explore the epidemiology and pathophysiological mechanisms underlying the utilization of ECMO in the management of AKI.

Results

ECMO initiates a multifaceted cascade of inflammatory reactions, encompassing complement activation, endothelial dysfunction, white blood cell activation, and cytokine release. Furthermore, factors such as renal hypoperfusion, ischemia–reperfusion injury, hemolysis, and fluid overload exacerbate AKI. Specifically, veno-arterial ECMO (VA-ECMO) may directly induce renal hypoperfusion, whereas veno-venous ECMO (VV-ECMO) predominantly impacts pulmonary function, indirectly influencing renal function.

Conclusion

While ECMO offers significant therapeutic advantages, AKI persists as a potentially fatal complication. A thorough comprehension of the pathogenesis underlying ECMO-associated AKI is imperative for effective prevention and management strategies. Moreover, additional research is warranted to delineate the incidence of AKI secondary to ECMO and to refine clinical approaches accordingly.