ECMO in India, SWAAC ELSO: challenges and solutions

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Medical Technology
• Biocompatibility Engineering

Background:

• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) represents a significant advancement in life support technology.
• The evolution of ECMO has been driven by numerous innovators focused on improving its biocompatibility.
• Understanding the historical context of cardiopulmonary bypass and ECMO is crucial for appreciating current advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To chronicle the historical development and innovations in ECMO technology.
• To highlight the contributions of key figures in ECMO's progress.
• To trace the establishment and expansion of the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) and its regional chapters.

Main Methods:

• Historical review of cardiopulmonary bypass and ECMO.
• Documentation of key innovations and redesigns of ECMO components.
• Chronological account of the founding and evolution of ELSO and its sub-chapters.

Main Results:

• ECM0 technology has undergone substantial progress, driven by dedicated research and development.
• The establishment of ELSO in the USA provided a central coordinating body for ECMO.
• The formation and subsequent expansion of ELSO's South and West Asia, Africa chapter (SWAAC) demonstrate global collaboration.

Conclusions:

• The history of ECMO is marked by inspiring innovation and collaboration.
• Centralized organizations like ELSO are vital for advancing ECMO technology and practice globally.
• The expansion of ELSO chapters reflects the growing international adoption and importance of ECMO.