Home > Encyclopedia of Children's Health > Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation

Definition

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a procedure that uses an artificial heart-lung machine to take over the work of the lungs (and sometimes the heart). ECMO is used most often in newborns and young children, but it also can be used as a last resort for adults whose heart or lungs are failing.

Purpose

In newborns, ECMO is used to support or replace an infant's undeveloped or failing lungs by providing oxygen and removing carbon dioxide waste products so the lungs can rest. Infants who need ECMO may include those with the following problems:

• Meconium aspiration syndrome: Breathing in of a newborn's first stool by a fetus or newborn, which can block air passages and interfere with lung expansion.
• Persistent pulmonary