Category
Mechanical Circulatory Respiratory Support
Typical Use
Provide prolonged cardiopulmonary support for severe respiratory or cardiac failure.
Description
A complex extracorporeal circuit comprising cannulas, pump, oxygenator, heat exchanger, and monitoring components that temporarily replaces or supports heart and lung function in patients with refractory respiratory failure, cardiogenic shock, or during high risk procedures. ECMO requires specialized teams for cannulation, anticoagulation management, circuit surveillance, and complication mitigation including bleeding, thrombosis, and infection. Patient selection, timing of initiation, and integration with other therapies determine outcomes, and ECMO centers follow protocols for weaning, decannulation, and long term follow up to address recovery and rehabilitation needs.