Overview
What is ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation)?
Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced life-support system that provides temporary heart and lung function for patients with severe cardiac or respiratory failure. It works by circulating blood outside the body through an artificial lung (membrane oxygenator) that adds oxygen and removes carbon dioxide, allowing the patient’s heart and lungs to rest and recover.
At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, we provide the best ECMO-assisted treatment in Kerala. Our Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery combines world-class surgical expertise, advanced ECMO technology, and 24/7 critical care support to manage life-threatening heart and lung conditions.
When is ECMO Needed?
ECMO is considered a last-resort but life-saving treatment for patients whose heart or lungs cannot function adequately despite maximum medical care. Common situations include:
- Severe heart failure following a massive heart attack
- Life-threatening arrhythmias unresponsive to treatment
- Post-cardiac surgery support when the heart needs time to recover
- Severe respiratory failure from conditions such as ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) or pneumonia
- Bridge to heart or lung transplantation
- Refractory cardiac arrest requiring emergency circulatory support
Types of ECMO
- Veno-Arterial (VA) ECMO – Provides both heart and lung support, typically used in patients with severe cardiac failure or after complex cardiac surgeries.
- Veno-Venous (VV) ECMO – Provides only lung support, ideal for patients with severe respiratory failure but adequate heart function.
Treatment
At KMC Hospital, Chengannur, our ECMO program is led by expert cardiothoracic surgeons and intensivists trained in advanced extracorporeal life support. Our services include:
- Rapid bedside ECMO initiation for critically ill patients
- Hybrid operating theatres with advanced ECMO equipment
- Continuous monitoring by perfusionists, cardiac anesthetists, and ICU specialists
- Post-ECMO care, including ventilator weaning, rehabilitation, and cardiac recovery
- Multidisciplinary collaboration across cardiology, pulmonology, and critical care units
We also provide ECMO transport support system, enabling critically ill patients from other hospitals within and outside Kerala to be transferred safely to our center for specialized care.
Best ECMO specialists in Kerala
Our Doctors
Our Department of Cardiothoracic & Vascular Surgery includes the best ECMO specialists in Kerala, supported by highly trained perfusionists and cardiac critical care teams. At Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences, our doctors have extensive experience in managing complex heart and lung conditions requiring ECMO.
Dr. Sunil Agarwal
Dr. Geevarghese K. Mathew
Dr. Rakhi K. R.
Dr. Nikhil George
Dr. Ayyappa Das
FAQ
The duration varies but is usually from a few days to weeks, depending on the underlying condition and recovery progress.
No. While a ventilator supports breathing, ECMO directly oxygenates the blood outside the body and provides heart support if needed.
Like any advanced life support, ECMO carries risks such as bleeding or infection, but in expert hands, it is often the only lifesaving option for critical patients.
ECMO does not cure the disease but provides time for the heart and lungs to recover or for doctors to perform other definitive treatments.
A multidisciplinary team of cardiothoracic surgeons, cardiologists, and critical care doctors assesses each case to determine if ECMO is appropriate.
Best Hospital for ECMO Treatment in Kerala
Why Choose KMC Hospital, for ECMO Treatment?
Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences is the best hospital for ECMO in Kerala, equipped with advanced ECMO machines, highly skilled surgeons, and round-the-clock intensive care. We are one of the few centers in Kerala offering comprehensive ECMO support for both adults and children.
Choosing KMC Hospital, Chengannur, ensures access to a dedicated ECMO team, world-class technology, and a legacy of excellence in cardiac and critical care.
Enquiry
Dr. KM Cherian Institute of Medical Sciences offers the best ECMO-assisted treatment in Kerala. Expert cardiac surgeons provide advanced life support for severe heart and lung failure. Book now.