ECMO
Pronunciation: EK-moh
Also written as: ECMO — Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
A life-support technique that provides cardiac and respiratory support to critically ill neonates by circulating blood outside the body through an artificial lung.
Full Definition
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced life-support modality used in neonatal intensive care for infants with severe cardiopulmonary failure who have not responded to conventional treatments. The technique involves removing blood from the patient, oxygenating it through an external membrane oxygenator, and returning it to the circulation. ECMO is typically reserved for neonates with conditions such as persistent pulmonary hypertension, congenital diaphragmatic hernia, or meconium aspiration syndrome when conventional ventilation has failed. The procedure requires specialized equipment and highly trained personnel.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as an acronym; avoid using as a verb form ('ECMOing')
In Context
- "The neonate was placed on ECMO after failing to respond to high-frequency oscillatory ventilation." — Medical report
- "ECMO weaning protocols must be carefully documented in the patient's chart." — Clinical documentation