Venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation need not be another pain in the neck

During the past decade, it has become evident that, where feasible, physical therapy —and in particular ambulation—during long periods of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) helps to mitigate progressive deconditioning in otherwise bedbound, critically ill patients.1,2 Now considered a fairly routine approach for adult patients on ECMO support (in particular those awaitin g lung transplants), this strategy has enjoyed limited adoption in pediatric centers, not only because of technical circuit limitations but in part also because of perceived issues with childhood compliance.
Source: The Journal of Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery - Category: Cardiovascular & Thoracic Surgery Authors: Tags: Editorial commentary Source Type: research