What is the role of the membrane in ECMO?

The role of the membrane in ECMO is primarily to facilitate gas exchange. During ECMO, blood is withdrawn from the patient's body and passed through the membrane, which functions as an artificial lung. This membrane allows for the exchange of gases, specifically oxygen and carbon dioxide, as blood flows through it. Oxygen from the gas phase on one side of the membrane diffuses into the blood, while carbon dioxide from the blood diffuses into the gas phase to be expelled. This process is critical for patients with severe respiratory or cardiac failure, as it temporarily takes over the function of the lungs or heart, ensuring that the body receives sufficient oxygen and that carbon dioxide is effectively removed. The effectiveness of the membrane in facilitating gas exchange is a cornerstone of ECMO’s ability to support patients in critical conditions and assist in their recovery.