Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), synonymous with extracorporeal life support (ECLS), is used as a lifesaving mechanical form of bypassing a patient’s cardiopulmonary system when in failure. Historically, it was adapted during the 1970s from perioperative cardiopulmonary bypass performed during cardiac surgery and was initially pioneered for children. As a result, much of the knowledge about ECMO today has been extrapolated from the pediatric and neonatal populations. ECMO is a highly specialized technology with limited availability in children’s hospitals but is associated with improved survival.
ECMO use is increasing worldwide due to improved survival rates in children who have been placed on ECMO. Optimal delivery of care remains challenging as substantial human and physical resource utilization is critical. To facilitate success, it is essential to have a comprehensive healthcare team that manages the pediatric patient using this artificial oxygenation machine, addresses any possible sequelae that may arise, and understands the implications of some technical challenges that may require a higher level of care.
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