ECMO

First Things First

• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a form of cardiopulmonary bypass used for support of respiratory and/or cardiac function in patients with reversible cardiopulmonary failure.

• Components of ECMO
  • Drainage cannulas
  • Pump
  • Oxygenator
  • Heat exchangers
  • Tubing
  • Return cannulas

• Blood flows of 50-100 ml/kg/min can be provided.
• PaCO2 is determined by the oxygenator gas flow (or sweep speed)
• PaO2 is determined by the amount of flow through the circuit and amount through the lungs.