Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Abstract Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is an established modality of extracorporeal life support (ECLS) for patients with severe, refractory cardiac and/or respiratory failure. ECMO evolved as an extension of the cardiopulmonary bypass technology developed in the 1950s and has now been used in a wide variety of patients. This chapter will examine the principles of ECMO, the indications and contraindications, management during ECMO, and outcomes. Highlighted will be the use of ECMO in pediatric cardiac failure.