ECMO Support
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) support is often described as a lifeline for patients whose heart or lungs are too weak to function properly. In modern critical care, this advanced treatment provides temporary support, giving the body time to recover or preparing patients for further interventions like transplant or surgery. At CureU Healthcare, we recognize ECMO as one of the most powerful tools in saving lives during medical emergencies.
What is ECMO Support?
ECMO, short for Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation, is a machine that takes over the work of the heart and lungs. By circulating blood outside the body through an artificial lung (membrane), it provides oxygen and removes carbon dioxide. The oxygenated blood is then pumped back into the patient, allowing vital organs to rest and heal.
When is ECMO Required?
Doctors recommend ECMO in life-threatening conditions where standard treatments like ventilators or medications are not enough. These situations may include:
- Severe heart failure due to heart attack or cardiomyopathy.
- Respiratory failure caused by pneumonia, ARDS (acute respiratory distress syndrome), or trauma.
- Severe lung infections, such as influenza or COVID-19 complications.
- Post-cardiac surgery support when the heart struggles to restart effectively.
- Bridge to transplant, keeping patients stable until a heart or lung transplant is possible.
Symptoms and Signs Indicating ECMO Need
Patients who require ECMO often present with:
- Severe difficulty breathing even with ventilator support.
- Low oxygen levels despite high-flow oxygen therapy.
- Rapidly failing heart function and low blood pressure.
- Organ dysfunction caused by poor oxygen delivery.
Types of ECMO Support
There are two main types of ECMO:
- Veno-Arterial (VA-ECMO) Supports both heart and lungs by pumping oxygen-rich blood directly into the arteries.
- Veno-Venous (VV-ECMO) Supports only the lungs, returning oxygenated blood to the veins.
Benefits of ECMO Support
- Provides vital time for recovery of heart and lungs.
- Improves oxygen delivery to critical organs like the brain and kidneys.
- Increases survival chances in cases where other therapies have failed.
- Acts as a bridge to transplantation or surgery.
Risks and Considerations
Like any advanced medical therapy, ECMO has risks such as bleeding, infection, or clot formation. However, with expert care, these risks can be minimized, and the benefits often outweigh the challenges, especially in critically ill patients.
Cost of ECMO Support in India
The cost of ECMO in India varies depending on the hospital, duration of treatment, and underlying condition. On average, the cost may range between ₹10 lakhs to ₹25 lakhs (USD 12,000 – 30,000). At CureU Healthcare, we assist international and domestic patients in finding the best ECMO support facilities at affordable costs without compromising quality care.
Conclusion
ECMO support is not just a medical procedure; it is a second chance at life. While it is reserved for the sickest patients, it has revolutionized modern intensive care by offering hope where once there was none. With expert teams, advanced technology, and compassionate care, ECMO continues to save lives every day.
