ecmo extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support

ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) Support ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) is a life-saving, advanced form of heart-lung support used for critically ill patients whose lungs or heart are failing despite maximum medical and ventilator therapy. At our center, under the leadership of Dr. Shubham Sharma, ECMO is used as part of a comprehensive strategy in managing severe respiratory failure, cardiopulmonary collapse, and as a bridge to lung transplantation. What Is ECMO? ECMO is a machine that temporarily takes over the function of the lungs—and in some cases, the heart—by oxygenating the blood outside the body and removing carbon dioxide. It allows the lungs (and heart) time to rest and heal or serves as a bridge until further treatment such as lung transplant becomes possible. Types of ECMO VV-ECMO (Veno-Venous) Supports only the lungs. Used in conditions like: ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) Severe pneumonia Post-COVID lung failure Interstitial lung disease with acute exacerbation Bridge to lung transplant VA-ECMO (Veno-Arterial) Supports both the heart and lungs. Used in: Cardiogenic shock Cardiac arrest Severe combined cardiac and respiratory failure When Is ECMO Used? ECMO is considered when conventional treatment options like mechanical ventilation or medications fail to maintain adequate oxygenation or circulation. Indications include: Severe ARDS unresponsive to ventilator support Life-threatening hypoxemia or hypercapnia Lung injury due to infection, trauma, or inhalation injury Bridge to recovery or transplantation Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (ECPR) ECMO Services at Our Center Bedside ECMO initiation in ICU or emergency 24/7 ECMO team including pulmonologists, intensivists, cardiac surgeons, perfusionists, and critical care nurses Mobile ECMO retrieval and transport from peripheral hospitals (in select cases) Multidisciplinary care including physiotherapy, nutrition, and infection control Bridge-to-Transplant ECMO support for patients awaiting lung transplantation Weaning and rehabilitation protocols for optimal recovery Expertise That Matters Dr. Shubham Sharma brings extensive experience in managing ECMO cases, with international training in advanced lung failure and transplant medicine from the Medical University of Vienna. His team is adept at timely ECMO initiation, precise monitoring, and individualized weaning strategies, ensuring that patients receive the best chance at recovery or safe transition to transplant. Frequently Asked Questions Is ECMO a cure? No. ECMO is not a cure but a supportive therapy—it buys time for the lungs or heart to recover or for definitive treatments like a transplant. How long can someone stay on ECMO? Duration varies but typically ranges from a few days to several weeks, depending on the underlying condition and recovery. Is ECMO risky? While lifesaving, ECMO is a complex procedure with risks like bleeding, infection, and clotting. Expert management and continuous monitoring are critical.