Implementation of a weaning-protocol for extracorporeal life support is accompanied with decrease of 30-day mortality

Objectives: In recent years, Extracorporeal Life Support Systems (ECLS) have become an established tool in the therapy of postcardiotomy failure. Despite the increasing use in cardiovascular surgery, there are currently no guidelines suggesting key-parameters like therapeutic goals, duration of ECLS support or weaning strategies. For this reason, an appropriate protocol was implemented in order to supervise this important therapeutic process.