ECMO
Also written as: ECMO — Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; a form of life support providing prolonged cardiac and respiratory support outside the body.
Full Definition
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a complex life support system that provides cardiac and/or respiratory support by circulating blood outside the body through an artificial lung (membrane oxygenator). There are two main configurations: veno-venous (VV-ECMO) for respiratory support and veno-arterial (VA-ECMO) for combined cardiac and respiratory support. ECMO is used for severe, potentially reversible respiratory failure unresponsive to conventional mechanical ventilation, such as severe ARDS or bridge to lung transplantation. The system requires specialized training, intensive monitoring, and carries significant risks including bleeding, thrombosis, and infection. Respiratory therapists play crucial roles in ECMO management, monitoring, and troubleshooting.
Usage
Usage note: Specify VV-ECMO or VA-ECMO configuration when documenting; requires specialized protocols.
In Context
- "VV-ECMO was initiated for severe COVID-19 ARDS refractory to conventional ventilation." — ECMO initiation report
- "The patient remained on ECMO support for 12 days before successful decannulation." — ECMO weaning summary