What is the primary purpose of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO)?

The primary purpose of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is to provide prolonged cardiac and respiratory support for patients whose heart and lungs are severely compromised and unable to function adequately on their own. ECMO acts as a temporary circulatory and respiratory support system, allowing other therapies and recovery time for the underlying condition.

By diverting blood from the body, oxygenating it through an artificial membrane, and then returning it, ECMO effectively takes over the roles of the heart and lungs. This can be crucial in situations such as severe respiratory failure, cardiogenic shock, or during certain surgical procedures when the body requires additional support.

The other options focus on specific applications or enhancements that are not the core purpose of ECMO. While it can support patients post-surgery, that is not its sole function. Additionally, ECMO does not primarily aim to enhance drug delivery or replace mechanical ventilation entirely; rather, it serves as a bridge to recovery or other treatments by maintaining oxygenation and circulation.