Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - What it is

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), also known as extracorporeal life support (ECLS) or a modified heart-lung machine, is a temporary life support technique to keep patients alive when their heart and/or lungs stop functioning. It can be used to provide cardiac and respiratory support for up to a few weeks, during which the patient recovers.

If recovery does not occur, the patient can receive a longer-term mechanical assist device or undergo heart transplantation. Patients on ECMO support are given an anticoagulant, to prevent blood clotting in the external system.

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - Symptoms

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - How to prevent?

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - Causes and Risk Factors

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - Diagnosis

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - Preparing for surgery

Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) - Post-surgery care

Cardiothoracic Surgery,

Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG),

Heart Failure,

Heart Transplant,

Lung Transplant

Article contributed by Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, National Heart Centre Singapore

The information provided is not intended as medical advice. Terms of use. Information provided by SingHealth

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