extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Pronunciation: EK-mo
Also written as: ECMO — extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
A life-support technique that provides cardiac and respiratory support using an external artificial lung.
Full Definition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced life-support modality that provides temporary mechanical circulatory and respiratory support for patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure. In pediatric pulmonology, ECMO is used as rescue therapy for conditions such as severe respiratory distress syndrome, persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn, or respiratory failure from various causes. The system removes blood from the patient, oxygenates it using an artificial membrane lung, removes carbon dioxide, and returns it to the circulation. ECMO allows time for lung recovery while minimizing ventilator-induced lung injury.
Usage
Usage note: ECMO is pronounced as an acronym; distinguish between veno-venous and veno-arterial configurations.
In Context
- "The neonate was cannulated for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation due to refractory respiratory failure." — Surgical procedure note
- "ECMO support was successfully weaned after seven days of therapy." — ICU progress note