Overview
This lecture introduces ECMO (extracorporeal membrane oxygenation) as a life support therapy used when the heart and lungs cannot function adequately, emphasizing the roles, types, and indications for use.
What is ECMO?
- ECMO stands for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, a form of extracorporeal life support.
- ECMO involves pumping a patient’s blood through an external machine for gas exchange (oxygen and carbon dioxide).
- Used when heart and lungs cannot perform proper respiration, especially after failure of standard therapies.
- Respiratory therapists are often involved in ECMO management, though involvement may vary by state laws.
Indications for ECMO Use
- Indicated for severe, life-threatening respiratory failure.
- Used in cases of cardiogenic shock (heart failure) unresponsive to conventional treatments.
- Only used in severe cases where other treatments have failed.
Types of ECMO
- Two main types: venoarterial (VA) and venovenous (VV) ECMO.
- Venoarterial (VA) ECMO:
- Drains venous blood, oxygenates it externally, and returns it via arterial circulation.
- Provides both respiratory and hemodynamic (heart) support.
- Commonly used for cardiogenic shock.
- Venovenous (VV) ECMO:
- Drains and returns blood through the venous system after oxygenation.
- Provides only respiratory support, no hemodynamic support.
- Used for acute respiratory failure, often due to severe pneumonia.
Key Terms & Definitions
- ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) — Life support technique where blood is oxygenated outside the body.
- Venoarterial (VA) ECMO — ECMO type providing heart and lung support by returning oxygenated blood to arteries.
- Venovenous (VV) ECMO — ECMO type providing only lung support by returning oxygenated blood to veins.
- Cardiogenic Shock — A condition where the heart suddenly can’t pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs.
- Hemodynamic Support — Medical support to stabilize blood pressure and circulation.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review indications and differences between venoarterial and venovenous ECMO.
- Learn state-specific regulations for respiratory therapist involvement in ECMO.
- Study additional resources as needed for exam preparation.