Question 1

What is ECMO, and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

ECMO oxygenates blood outside of the body and maintains perfusion, temporarily supporting the heart or lung or heart-lung function while the organs heal.

Question 2

When is ECMO used in ICU patients?

Accepted Answer

It is used when heart or lung failure does not respond to conventional treatment.

Question 3

What is the difference between VA ECMO and VV ECMO?

Accepted Answer

VA ECMO supports both heart and lungs; VV ECMO supports lungs only.

Question 4

What are the risks of ECMO treatment?

Accepted Answer

Bleeding, infection, clotting, and neurological complications are possible.

Question 5

How much does ECMO treatment cost in India?

Accepted Answer

Cost depends on ECMO type, duration, ICU care, and patient condition.

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Support