ECMOsystemer

ECMOsystemer refers to Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation systems. These are advanced medical devices used to provide temporary support for patients whose lungs and/or hearts are unable to function adequately. ECMO essentially acts as an artificial heart and lung, taking over the functions of these vital organs, allowing them to rest and heal.

The core principle of ECMO involves drawing blood from the patient's body, pumping it through an artificial lung where oxygen is added and carbon dioxide is removed, and then returning the oxygenated blood back to the patient. This process is managed by a complex system of pumps, tubing, and oxygenators. There are two main types of ECMO: veno-arterial (VA) ECMO, which supports both the heart and lungs, and veno-venous (VV) ECMO, which primarily supports the lungs.

ECMO is a high-risk intervention typically reserved for critically ill patients who have not responded to conventional therapies. It is often used in cases of severe respiratory failure, such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and in certain cardiac conditions, including cardiogenic shock and post-cardiac arrest. The decision to initiate ECMO is made by a specialized medical team based on a thorough assessment of the patient's condition and potential for recovery. While ECMO can be life-saving, it carries significant risks, including bleeding, infection, and organ damage, and requires intensive monitoring and management.