The use of an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation anticoagulation laboratory protocol is associated with decreased blood product use, decreased hemorrhagic complications, and increased circuit life.

Objectives: To determine if a comprehensive extracorporeal membrane oxygenation anticoagulation monitoring protocol results in fewer hemorrhagic complications, reduced blood product usage, and increased circuit life.

Design: In September 2011, we augmented our standard extracorporeal membrane oxygenation laboratory protocol to include anti-factor Xa assays, thromboelastography, and antithrombin measurements. We performed a retrospective chart review to determine outcomes for patients placed on extracorporeal membrane oxygenation prior to and after the initiation of our anticoagulation laboratory protocol.