Venoarteriovenous Extracorporeal Life Support for Severe Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy: A Case Report

ABSTRACT: In this case report, the authors describe the use of venoarteriovenous extracorporeal life support (V-AV ECLS) for a patient presenting with severe takotsubo cardiomyopathy (TCM) secondary to a breakthrough seizure. Given a presentation of hypoxia, V-AV ECLS was instituted and weaned quickly after cardiac recovery. The patient was discharged home after complications from cardiogenic shock resolved. The incidence of mechanical support is rising in patients presenting with TCM, and cardiogenic shock and V-AV ECLS may become a viable support method for this specific patient population.