Dr. Arun – An Experienced Campaigner In Providing The Best ECMO Treatment!
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a highly sophisticated life support technique that is used to oxygenate the blood and remove carbon dioxide from the body when the lungs are not functioning properly. It is a type of mechanical ventilation that uses a pump to circulate the blood through an artificial lung back into the patient’s bloodstream. This provides the patient with oxygenated blood and removes carbon dioxide from the blood. It is used when other treatments, such as mechanical ventilation, have failed.
Why Is It Done?
ECMO is a short-term treatment that is typically used for two to four weeks and is most often used for patients who are on the waiting list for a heart or lung transplant. It is a high-risk treatment with serious complications such as heart failure or respiratory failure, but it can be lifesaving for patients in most severe cases.
How is ECMO Done?
The ECMO machine consists of a pump that circulates the blood through an oxygenator, which adds oxygen to the blood and removes carbon dioxide. The oxygenated blood is then returned to the patient’s body. It is a highly invasive technique and is typically only used as a last resort when all other treatment options have failed.
Risks Associated With ECMO!
ECMO is often used as a last resort treatment option when all other treatments have failed. It can be a very effective treatment, but it is also very risky at the same time. There are a number of potential complications that can occur with ECMO, so it is important that patients are closely monitored while on the treatment. There are many varied complications associated with ECMO which can occur during the procedure itself or even during the recovery period which can include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Blood clots
- Arrhythmias
- Kidney failure
- Liver failure
- Neurological complications
- Psychological complications
While the risks of these are significant, it is important to remember that ECMO is often the last resort treatment for patients who are critically ill and have exhausted all other treatment options. For these patients, the risks may be worth the chance as a life-saving treatment.
How to Prepare for ECMO?
While preparing for the ECMO procedure, there are certain key things that you should keep in mind which can potentially act as key for a successful procedure as below:
- Be Sure To Thoroughly Understand The Risks and Benefits – As with any medical procedure, there are risks and benefits associated with ECMO. It is important to understand these before making a decision about whether or not to proceed with the treatment.
- Not to Forget Taking A Second Opinion – If you are considering ECMO, it is a good idea to get a second opinion from another doctor. This will help you make sure that you are making the best decision for your situation.
- Be Prepared For A Long Hospital Stay – It can be a very invasive procedure, so it is important to be prepared for a long hospital stay. This may include arranging for child care, pet care, and other necessary arrangements.
- Don’t Hesitate to Ask Questions – Make sure to ask your doctor any questions you may have about ECMO. This will help you feel more prepared and confident about the decision you are making.
- Trust Your Instincts – At the end of the day, you know what is best for you or your loved one. Trust your instincts and make the decision that you feel is right.
What To Expect from ECMO?
It is a complex treatment that is only available at certain hospitals. It is important to work with a team of specialists who are experienced in providing this type of care.
Dr. Arun – An Experienced Campaigner In Providing The Best ECMO Treatment!
If you or a loved one is facing a life-threatening illness, you can freely consult with Dr. Arun who is a well known board-certified interventional cardiologist in India who can thoroughly guide you about your best treatment options available and clearly advise you if ECMO can be a viable treatment option depending on your current medical situation.
