Available online 22 September 2022

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support of the respiratory system has undergone significant evolution over the past decade. Historically used as rescue therapy, the treatment is now being utilized earlier in the disease course, and its indications for use expanded. The coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has further increased the experience of ECMO centres and expanded the body of evidence. This article will review the physiology of veno-venous (V-V) ECMO, control of oxygenation and carbon dioxide, principal equipment, patient selection and timing, complications and weaning from V-V ECMO.

Acute respiratory distress syndrome

COVID-19

extracorporeal membrane oxygenation

haemorrhage

lung transplant

membrane

oxygenators

respiratory failure

thrombosis

© 2022 Published by Elsevier Ltd.