The Role of Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in Pulmonary Hypertension Secondary to Lung Pathology and Its Impact on Right Ventricular Function

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) secondary to lung disease is a common cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with advanced respiratory diseases.The right ventricle (RV), tasked with propelling blood through the pulmonary circulation, is particularly susceptible to the increased afterload imposed by elevated pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR).Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO) has emerged as a life-saving support for patients with advanced respiratory failure, and its potential role in improving RV function remains a topic to be explored.This review paper delves into the pathophysiological interplay between PH and RV dysfunction in advanced respiratory failure, reviews mechanisms through which VV ECMO may alleviate RV strain, and evaluates the clinical evidence supporting its use.Venovenous ECMO can reduce the RV afterload by improving oxygenation and decreasing PVR, leading to enhanced RV function.This review underscores the importance of VV ECMO as a therapeutic tool for managing PH and RV dysfunction in critically ill patients.