Veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) is commonly used to support patients with cardiopulmonary failure. Current understanding of ECMO, including its effects on systemic hemodynamics and how the vasculature (in particular, the endothelial cells that line the aorta) responds to varying levels of continuous retrograde perfusion involved in VA-ECMO, is incomplete. This project aims to quantify the after effects of non-physiological blood flows from VA-ECMO on endothelial cells that line the aortic trunk. Such data may lead to development of novel support and weaning strategies for patients supported by VA-ECMO.

SuperUROP is a great opportunity to create and execute one’s own experimental design while still working closely with and getting feedback from those with more experience in related research fields. This project consists of an exciting mix of core mechanical and biomedical engineering concepts including design & manufacturing, fluid mechanics, and tissue engineering.