ABSTRACT
The tubing of the ECMO circuit is initially circulated with carbon dioxide gas. This is followed by the addition of crystalloid and 5% albumin solution. The albumin coats the tubing to decrease its reactivity to circulating blood. The carbon dioxide gas dissolves into the fluid. Approximately 2 units of packed red blood cells are required for initial priming of the pump, which displaces the crystalloid and colloid in the circuit.
