ECMO
Pronunciation: EK-moh
Also written as: ECMO — extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
A form of life support that provides prolonged cardiac and respiratory support using external oxygenation.
Full Definition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a temporary mechanical circulatory support device that provides cardiac and/or pulmonary support to patients with severe heart or lung failure. The system removes blood from the patient, oxygenates it externally, removes carbon dioxide, and returns it to the patient. In cardiothoracic anesthesia, ECMO may be initiated intraoperatively or postoperatively when conventional support measures are insufficient. Two main configurations exist: veno-arterial (VA-ECMO) for cardiac support and veno-venous (VV-ECMO) for respiratory support.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as acronym; specify VA- or VV- configuration when relevant.
In Context
- "The patient required emergent VA-ECMO cannulation due to postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock." — operative report
- "ECMO weaning protocols should be initiated when ventricular function shows improvement." — clinical guideline