A.
Connect a large luer-lock syringe to the closest port. Try to aspirate the air bubbles until no more air is visible and/or no more noise is audible.
B.
Consider removing the pumphead from its housing and try to de-air by using gravity to move the air toward the syringe.
C.
Do NOT clamp the drainage line to use the patient as a reservoir.
D.
If de-airing is successful, restart extracorporeal life support (ECLS).
E.
If blood was lost in the de-airing process, consider replacing it with packed red blood cells (PRBC).
F.
Strictly monitor the patient. If an air embolism is suspected, consider neuroprotective strategies.
This concludes Air in Circuit.