文摘
In Germany, the ever-increasing use of mechanical extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and extracorporeal life support (ECLS) systems has been observed over the last few years. In 2015, more than 2,800 ECLS/ECMO implantations were carried out in Germany. Despite this widespread use of the systems, the only national and international guidelines that are available are those in which the use of ECMO/ECLS is described as just one aspect of complex treatment cascades for various illnesses. Against this background it appears necessary to draft evidence-based recommendations on the complex management of patients who need and receive ECMO/ECLS treatment, in which staff-related, procedural and infrastructural requirements are defined.