Authors' objectives:

This study aims to assess the current evidence on the safety and efficacy of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adults.

Authors' recommendations: 1.1 Current evidence on the safety and efficacy of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in adults does not appear adequate to support the use of this procedure without special arrangements for consent and for audit or research. Clinicians wishing to undertake ECMO in adults should inform the clinical governance leads in their Trusts. They should ensure that patients offered the procedure understand the uncertainty about its safety and efficacy and should provide them with clear written information. Use of the Institutes Information for the Public is recommended. Clinicians should ensure that appropriate arrangements are in place for research or audit. Publication of safety and efficacy outcomes will be useful in reducing the current uncertainty. NICE is not undertaking further investigation at present. 1.2 ECMO in adults is under evaluation in the Health Technology Assessment Programmes CESAR (Conventional Ventilation or Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Severe Adult Respiratory Failure) trial. Clinicians wishing to undertake this procedure are strongly advised to enter eligible patients into this trial.

Authors' methods: Overview

Project Status: Completed

URL for project: http://www.nice.org.uk/cms/ip/ipcat.aspx?c=56136

Year Published: 2004

English language abstract: An English language summary is available

Publication Type: Not Assigned

Country: England, United Kingdom

Organisation Name: National Institute for Clinical Excellence

Contact Address: MidCity Place, 71 High Holborn, London WC1V 6NA, UK. Tel: +44 020 7067 5800; Fax: +44 020 7067 5801

Contact Name: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Contact Email: nice@nice.nhs.uk

Copyright: National Institute for Clinical Excellence (NICE)