ECMO
Pronunciation: ECK-moh
Also written as: ECMO — Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Extracorporeal life support system used in critical pediatric surgical patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure.
Full Definition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a form of life support that provides cardiac and/or pulmonary support by circulating blood through an artificial lung outside the body. In pediatric surgery, ECMO is utilized for patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure that is potentially reversible, including congenital diaphragmatic hernia, severe pneumonia, or post-operative cardiac failure. The system can be configured for venovenous support (respiratory failure) or venoarterial support (cardiac failure). ECMO allows time for the underlying condition to recover while maintaining adequate oxygenation and circulation, though it carries significant risks including bleeding, stroke, and mechanical complications.
Usage
Usage note: Can be configured as VV-ECMO (venovenous) or VA-ECMO (venoarterial) depending on support needed.
In Context
- "The patient was placed on venovenous ECMO for severe respiratory failure following CDH repair." — operative report
- "ECMO weaning trials were initiated after improvement in pulmonary compliance." — progress note