ECMO
Pronunciation: ECK-moh
Also written as: ECMO — extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, a life support system that temporarily replaces heart and lung function.
Full Definition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced form of life support that provides prolonged cardiac and respiratory support to patients whose heart and lungs cannot function adequately on their own. The system pumps blood from the patient's body through an artificial lung (oxygenator) and then returns it to the patient. ECMO can be configured as veno-arterial (VA-ECMO) for cardiac support or veno-venous (VV-ECMO) for respiratory support. In cardiothoracic surgery, it serves as a bridge to recovery, transplantation, or decision-making in critically ill patients.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize; specify VA-ECMO or VV-ECMO when configuration is relevant.
In Context
- "The patient was placed on VA-ECMO immediately following cardiac arrest during the procedure." — Intensive care unit note