Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 26, 2026

Veno-Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation in a Mouse
Published on: October 24, 2018
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: current use and future directions
Insights
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) provides life support for neonates and pediatric patients with severe heart or lung failure. This review covers ECMO history, mechanics, applications, and critical care nursing management, including a case study.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Pulmonology
- Critical Care Medicine
Background:
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) supports patients with reversible cardiopulmonary failure unresponsive to conventional treatments.
- Its application in critically ill neonates shows encouraging results.
- ECMO use in pediatrics is increasing, though historically limited.
Abstract:
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is the process of using prolonged cardiopulmonary bypass to support patients with reversible respiratory and/or cardiac failure who are refractory to maximal conventional therapy. This process has been used extensively for critically ill neonates, with encouraging results. The use of ECMO in the pediatric population has been limited but is increasing. The history, mechanics, and current applications of ECMO are discussed in this article. Critical care nursing management of the pediatric or neonatal ECMO patient focuses on optimizing recovery of the pulmonary and/or cardiac system while preventing complications. A case study of a pediatric ECMO patient is presented which illustrates the complex nursing care issues related to use of this intervention. Future directions for ECMO are addressed.
More Related Videos
09:47Exploring Alternative Perfusion Solutions Using Next-Generation Polymerized Hemoglobin-Based Oxygen Carriers in a Model of Rat Ex Vivo Lung Perfusion
Published on: June 14, 2024
03:40Point-of-Care Ultrasound for Peripheral Veno-Arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Without Left Ventricular Venting
Published on: January 17, 2025
Related Concept Videos
Treatment for Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension: Oxygen Therapy for Respiratory Failure
Oxygen therapy is vital in increasing and maintaining blood oxygen levels in PAH patients. As a result, it aids in reducing fatigue, improving...
Oxygen Delivering System I: Nasal Cannula and Face Mask
Nasal Cannula
A nasal cannula is a lightweight tube split at one end into two prongs and placed in the nostrils. It is typically used to deliver low to medium levels of oxygen.
Suggested flow rate: The suggested flow rate for a nasal cannula typically ranges between 1 and 6 L/min.
Oxygen percentage setting:...
Oxygen Delivering System II: Venturi Mask and Transtracheal Oxygen
Venturi Mask
The Venturi mask, named after the Venturi effect, is designed to deliver precise oxygen concentrations. It consists of a large tube with an oxygen inlet that narrows down, causing a pressure drop that pulls air in through adjustable side ports. The mask is a lightweight,...
Mechanical Ventilation II: Invasive Ventilation
Negative-Pressure Ventilators
Negative-pressure ventilators create a vacuum around the chest or body to draw air into the lungs, simulating breathing. This method does not require an...
Mechanical Ventilation III: Noninvasive Ventilation
Noninvasive Positive-Pressure Ventilation (NIPPV)
Extracorporeal Removal of Drugs: Hemoperfusion and Hemofiltration