Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Treating Severe Cardiac and Respiratory Disease in Adults: Part 1-Overview of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

ECMO has been used for treating severe cardiac and respiratory failure for over 30 years, particularly in children in whom its role is well established. Early trials of ECMO for respiratory support in adults were disappointing. However, a recent case series and 1 randomized trial, which more closely mirror contemporary practice, have shown high rates of survival. Furthermore, recent technical developments have greatly improved the ease of use of ECMO such that it can be performed safely for a period of several weeks. ECMO should be performed in centers with the appropriate experience and expertise using clear selection criteria. Guidelines should be established for the referral and transport of appropriate patients to regional ECMO centers. © 2009 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.