Information about support used in critical care settings.
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is temporary life support used in selected critical cardiac or respiratory situations when conventional support may be insufficient. It circulates blood through an external circuit to support oxygenation and/or circulation while the team treats the underlying condition.
What ECMO involves
ECMO is delivered in a specialist critical-care setting by a trained multidisciplinary team. It may be considered in circumstances such as severe cardiac or respiratory failure, cardiogenic shock, or as a bridge to another intervention. It is not suitable for every patient.
Specialist assessment and availability
Eligibility, expected benefit, risks and alternatives are assessed urgently by the treating critical-care team. Contact the hospital directly for current service availability; this page is informational and is not an emergency service.
- Cardiac and respiratory support assessment
- Critical-care team review
- Discussion of potential role, risks and alternatives
- Hospital and service availability confirmation
Questions to discuss with your specialist.
Bring relevant reports and ask the care team about evaluation and next steps.
Is this suitable for me?
Suitability is decided after review of your clinical history and investigations.
What are the options?
Ask about potential benefits, risks, alternatives and expected outcomes.
What happens next?
Discuss further tests, preparation, recovery and follow-up if relevant.
Confirm availability
Contact the team for current service, appointment and referral information.
This page is for general education only and is not a diagnosis or treatment recommendation. Service availability and suitability must be confirmed with the treating team.
Questions about ECMO & Advanced Cardiac Support?
Contact the care team to ask about consultation arrangements.