Course Content
Module 1: Basic ECMO
Module I: Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Basics (ECMO Basics) This module covers the foundational knowledge of ECMO, including circuit physiology, components, and basic ECMO management. Duration: 3 Weeks (Course weeks 1 to 3) Week 1: Introduction to ECMO Week 2: ECMO Physiology & Circuit Management Week 3: ECMO Complications and Troubleshooting Module I Pretest: 30 MCQs
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Module II: Veno-venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VV ECMO)
This module focuses on the use of VV ECMO in patients with respiratory failure. Topics include ARDS management, VV ECMO cannulation strategies, and VV ECMO troubleshooting. Duration: 3 Weeks (Course weeks 4 to 6) Module II Pretest: 30 MCQs Week 4: VV ECMO Fundamentals Start Date: July 20, 2025 a. Respiratory failure and ARDS management (Ahmed Magdey) b. Evidence for VV ECMO use and landmark trials (Hesham Faisal) c. VV ECMO cannulation techniques and pros and cons of different VV ECMO configuration choices (Moustafa Esam) d. ECMO Retrieval and Patient Transport on ECMO (Ahmed Labib)
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Module III: Veno-arterial Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (VA ECMO)
This module focuses on VA ECMO for cardiogenic shock, including cannulation strategies, LV unloading, and advanced applications. Duration: 3 Weeks (Course weeks 7 to 9) Module II Pretest: 30 MCQs
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Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) and Mechanical Circulatory Support (MCS) course (Copy 4)

ECMO Complications: Bleeding, thrombosis, hemolysis, and neurologic complications (Akram Zaaqoq)

ECMO-Related Medical Discussions

Inflammatory Response and Coagulation:

Akram compared ECMO to cardiopulmonary bypass, noting ECMO’s distinct inflammatory and coagulation challenges. He recommended correcting coagulopathy and administering heparin during cannulation.

Anticoagulation Strategies:

He outlined the use of heparin (20–50 units/kg/hr) and alternative agents like bivalirudin and argatroban. He emphasized individualized monitoring due to factors like antithrombin 3 deficiency and reviewed methods including ACT, APTT, and ROTEM.

Strategy Review and Innovations:

He highlighted the challenges of balancing clotting and bleeding, discussed the role of plasma exchange and heparin-coated circuits, and acknowledged the absence of reversal agents for some anticoagulants.

Management in VV ECMO:

Akram noted that anticoagulation might be safely omitted in VV ECMO under close monitoring. He described a bleeding management algorithm involving cessation of anticoagulation, transfusions, and potential use of antifibrinolytics.

Neurological Complications in ECMO

Akram addressed the high mortality linked to strokes in ECMO patients. He stressed modifiable risk factors (e.g. blood pressure, CO₂, pH), early monitoring, and guideline-driven management

Saving Lives Academy
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