Chennai: ECMO can prove to be an effective treatment solution in these challenging times for patients with weak lung function and this has been demonstrated by Dr Govini Balasubramani, head, CTVS, Heart and Lung Transplant, Fortis Vadapalani and his medical team of cardiothoracic surgeons, pulmonologists andĀ intensive care specialists.
A 34-year-old patient infected with Covid-19 and poor lung function has received a new lease of life with ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) at the hospital.
According to Dr Balasubramani, “For any patient under ECMO, the length of hospital stay and the average survival rate in hospital is 45 days, as observed in different cases in the past. When a patient is not maintaining an oxygen level of 50 per cent even with 100 per cent oxygen support, he/she is brought underĀ mechanical ventilator and then further escalated to ECMO therapy as required.”
Although ECMO is beneficial, it is used as a last resort when the organs fail to respond in the case of critically ill patients.
“Available data with us suggests that in an appropriately selected patient, we can save life with this therapy. Even in these testing times due to the pandemic, clinicians at Fortis Vadapalani are continuing to stand with patients and using any means possible to save lives.”