Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): Who, How, and for How Long?

ECMO usage, the number of patients being considered for ECMO therapy and the number of ECMO platforms has exploded during the last two years.
Joe will explore the number of reported ECMO cases and their outcomes, his own experience with managing a large ECMO population experience and discuss the direction he sees ECMO as a therapeutic modality is going in the future. 

Embark on a deep dive into the intricate and complex world of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) with our comprehensive video course, explicitly crafted for perfusionists professionals. The course, aptly named "Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO): Who, How, and for How Long?", addresses the increasing prevalence of ECMO usage and its multifaceted nature.

In the span of just two years, we've seen a remarkable upsurge in the number of patients being considered for ECMO therapy, as well as a proliferation of ECMO platforms. The numbers continue to rise, reflecting the need for comprehensive and up-to-date education in this dynamic field. 

The course's conductor, Joseph Basha CCP, is an experienced and well-respected professional in the field of ECMO. He has spent numerous years managing a large ECMO population, accumulating a wealth of knowledge and practical wisdom that he now shares with his students. By doing so, he not only recounts his personal experiences but also provides a platform for learners to glean insights that can be translated into their professional practice.

In an era where medical advancements are happening at breakneck speed, it's essential for healthcare professionals to stay at the forefront of new methodologies and techniques. With ECMO's application expanding in leaps and bounds, this course aims to equip you with knowledge that you can employ to enhance your professional capabilities and make more informed decisions in your clinical practice. 

The meticulously curated lectures offer a comprehensive understanding of ECMO. The first lecture begins with the most crucial question: "Who should get ECMO?" We take a deep look into the selection criteria for ECMO, discussing the pre-requisites that patients must meet to be considered eligible for this life-saving therapy.

"What is ECMO?" is the next question we tackle, walking you through the fundamental theory behind this complex treatment. This lecture explains how ECMO acts as a lifeline for patients with severe heart or lung conditions, sustaining their life while the body heals.

Following this, we examine who actually gets ECMO, diving into real-world examples and case studies, offering you a broader understanding of ECMO's practical application. 

A key aspect that the course covers is the role of ECMO as a bridge, that is, a tool used to support a patient until a definitive treatment option can be implemented. This understanding is vital to comprehend the patient's journey and to establish realistic expectations for the treatment outcome.

Next, we discuss "exit strategies," a topic of paramount importance. This lecture addresses planning for the end of ECMO treatment, outlining different scenarios and preparing the healthcare professional to handle each situation effectively.

The course also highlights different "Types of ECMO," enabling you to understand the different modalities and their respective applications. Furthermore, we delve into the "Complex and Exotic ECMO" setups, giving you a sense of the advanced variations in ECMO treatment and the ability to handle complex situations with confidence.

The innovative "Butterfly Technique" is another aspect covered, helping you grasp this novel approach that can potentially enhance the success rate of ECMO.

However, as with any treatment, ECMO comes with its "Advantages and Potential Pitfalls." The course ensures you are aware of these aspects so that you can balance the benefits against the risks when deciding on ECMO as a treatment option. 

We also address a crucial question that is often overlooked - "When ECMO?" This lecture explores the ideal timing for initiating ECMO therapy, emphasizing that timing is of the essence when it comes to saving a patient's life.

The potential dangers of "Waiting Too Long" are also discussed in detail. We address the consequences of delayed initiation of ECMO therapy, providing insights that can help you make time-sensitive decisions.

A significant component of the course is the discussion on "Quality of Life" post-ECMO. It's crucial to comprehend how ECMO impacts the patient's life, both during and after the therapy. This understanding will aid in managing patient expectations and providing holistic care.

"Organ Support" and "Systemic Inflammation" are key topics that are dealt with next, offering you a deep understanding of the body's response to ECMO and the support required for different organs during therapy. 

Lastly, we delve into the "Contact System coagulation cascade," explaining the process in depth and emphasizing its relevance to ECMO therapy. This understanding is fundamental to preventing potential complications during ECMO.

Our course aims to offer an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of ECMO. With this knowledge, you can make informed decisions, manage patient expectations effectively, and ultimately contribute to improving patient outcomes. Immerse yourself in this holistic learning experience, grasp the complexities of ECMO, and stay ahead in your perfusionist practice.