Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in thoracic surgery: A game changer!

Abstract

The utilization of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in complex thoracic surgery has become more frequent in recent years due to advances in technology, increased availability, and improved outcomes. ECMO has emerged as a vital tool to facilitate thoracic surgery for patients who would have otherwise been deemed unsuitable candidates. It has redefined the boundaries of surgical possibility where conventional methods fall short. ECMO is typically employed in specific thoracic surgery where conventional ventilation is either inadequate or it interferes with the surgical field, and in procedures demanding both ventilatory and hemodynamic support.

Keywords: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; Hemodynamic support; Oxygenation; Thoracic surgery; Ventilation.