Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a lifesaving support modality used for patients with severe cardiac or respiratory failure when conventional therapy is insufficient. This session provides a detailed and clinically grounded understanding of ECMO physiology, indications, circuit components, management strategies, and complication prevention. With increasing adoption of ECMO in critical care and cardiac units, clinicians often look for a dedicated cardiology conference to deepen their expertise in device operation and patient selection.

The description outlines the two primary configurations—veno-venous (VV) ECMO for respiratory support and veno-arterial (VA) ECMO for circulatory collapse. Participants will learn how ECMO functions as a temporary heart–lung replacement system, allowing organ recovery while ensuring optimal gas exchange and perfusion. The session explains cannulation approaches, pump mechanics, oxygenator function, flow regulation, sweep gas control, and anticoagulation strategies essential for successful support.

A major emphasis is placed on implementing advanced ECMO management strategies, including patient selection, monitoring hemodynamics, ensuring adequate oxygen delivery, optimizing flows, and managing complications such as bleeding, thrombosis, limb ischemia, hemolysis, infection, and neurologic injury. The session reviews management algorithms for cardiogenic shock, massive pulmonary embolism, refractory arrhythmias, myocarditis, post-cardiotomy failure, and bridge-to-recovery vs. bridge-to-transplant scenarios.

Participants will explore evidence-based weaning protocols, rehabilitation during ECMO, ventilator adjustments during VV support, and methods to minimize lung injury. Case-based discussions illustrate complex decision pathways such as escalation to mechanical circulatory support, hybrid support strategies, and the use of echocardiography and hemodynamic monitoring to guide therapy.

Future innovations include transport ECMO, portable systems, dual-lumen cannula improvements, AI-assisted monitoring systems, and novel oxygenator membrane materials that reduce clot burden. By the end, attendees will understand how to integrate ECMO safely into critical care pathways and improve outcomes for high-risk patients.