What factors are considered when determining ECMO eligibility?

Determining ECMO eligibility primarily hinges on the underlying disease and overall prognosis of the patient. This is crucial because ECMO is typically indicated for individuals with severe cardiac or respiratory failure who have a reasonable chance of recovery with this support. Healthcare providers assess factors such as the specific nature of the patient's condition, potential for reversibility, and overall health status to gauge the likelihood of a favorable outcome.

For example, patients with reversible conditions, such as those experiencing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) due to a treatable infection, may be considered strong candidates for ECMO. Conversely, those with terminal illnesses or very poor prognoses may not benefit from the intervention, as its use could prolong suffering without improving quality of life or survival. Therefore, this evaluation of the underlying disease and prognosis is vital for making informed and ethical decisions regarding ECMO support.