How does ECMO work?

1. Tubes are placed into large blood vessels
   Doctors insert soft plastic tubes (called cannulas) into major veins or arteries-usually in the neck, chest, or leg.

2. Blood is taken out of the body
   The ECMO machine pulls blood out of your body through one of the tubes.

3. The machine adds oxygen and removes carbon dioxide
   Inside the machine, your blood passes through a special filter (a membrane), which acts like an artificial lung.
   It adds oxygen to the blood and removes carbon dioxide (a gas your body usually breathes out).

4. The machine warms the blood and pumps it back into your body
   Once the blood is clean and oxygen-rich, it’s pumped back into your body through another tube.

5. Your heart and lungs get a break
   While ECMO handles the work of moving and cleaning your blood, your heart and lungs can rest and heal.

ECMO Candidacy

There are several factors that go into considering someone for candidacy regarding ECMO. 

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS)

ARDS, or acute respiratory distress syndrome, is a life-threatening condition where the lungs fill with fluid, making it hard to breathe and get enough oxygen. It can be caused by infections, injuries, or severe illness. Patients often need a ventilator, and in very serious cases, ECMO may be used to support recovery.

Pulmonary Embolism

A pulmonary embolism is a blockage in one of the arteries in the lungs, usually caused by a blood clot that traveled from the legs. It can make it hard to breathe, cause chest pain, and be life-threatening if not treated quickly.

Heart Injuries

Heart failure, Cardiac arrest, and other heart conditions may lead to someone being a candidate for ECMO. 

Transplants/Surgeries

ECMO is often served as a bridge for transplants and surgeries, as a form of bypass. 

Asthmatics

Patients who are in Status Asthmaticus, or respiratory failure, can also be considered for ECMO when other options are exhausted.