ECMOUnterstützung

ECMOUnterstützung, or Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support, is a medical procedure used to support the cardiovascular and respiratory systems of patients who are critically ill and unable to breathe or pump blood effectively on their own. This non-invasive form of support is typically used as a bridge to recovery or as a destination therapy for patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure.

The ECMO system consists of a membrane oxygenator, which is an artificial lung that performs the gas exchange function of the lungs, and a circuit that pumps blood away from the body, through the oxygenator, and back into the body. There are two main types of ECMO: Venovenous ECMO (VV-ECMO), which bypasses the lungs and heart, and Venoaortial ECMO (VA-ECMO), which bypasses the heart but not the lungs.

ECMO support is typically initiated in the intensive care unit (ICU) and may be continued for several weeks or even months, depending on the patient's condition and response to treatment. The procedure is generally well-tolerated, with most patients experiencing few side effects. However, it requires careful monitoring and management to minimize the risk of complications, such as blood clots and infections.

ECMO support has been shown to improve survival rates in patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure who are not responding to conventional treatments. It is most commonly used in patients with acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), sepsis, and severe heart failure. The procedure is typically performed by a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including intensivists, anesthesiologists, and perfusionists.

In summary, ECMO support is a critical intervention for patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure, providing a lifesaving bridge to recovery or destination therapy. It is a complex procedure that requires specialized expertise and careful monitoring to minimize risks and maximize benefits.