Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) Programme

What is ECMO?

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is an advanced life support system that acts as an artificial heart and lung when your own organs cannot function properly.

ECMO works by:

• Taking blood out of the body
• Adding oxygen to it
• Removing carbon dioxide
• Returning it to the body 

This allows the heart and lungs to rest and recover.

When is ECMO used?

ECMO is typically used in critical situations, such as:

• Severe heart failure
• Cardiogenic shock
• Cardiac arrest (ECPR)
• Severe lung failure (e.g. ARDS)
• Complications after heart surgery

It is usually considered when conventional treatments are no longer sufficient.

Who may need ECMO?

Patients who may benefit from ECMO include those:

• with sudden, severe heart or lung failure
• who are not responding to medication or ventilation
• who have a potentially reversible condition
• who are being considered for advanced therapies such as transplant or ventricular assist devices 

A specialist team will assess each case carefully, as ECMO is a complex and resource-intensive therapy.

How is ECMO different from a ventilator?

A ventilator supports breathing by helping air move in and out of the lungs. 

ECMO goes further by:

• directly oxygenating the blood
• supporting circulation when the heart is failing 

It is used only in more severe cases.

What are the risks of ECMO?

As with any advanced life support, ECMO carries risks, including:

• bleeding
• infection
• blood clots
• complications related to prolonged critical illness 

These risks are managed by a specialised, multidisciplinary team.

Where can I receive ECMO treatment in Singapore?

At National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS), ECMO is part of an integrated advanced heart failure and critical care programme. Care is delivered by a multidisciplinary team including cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, intensivists, and perfusionists. The programme supports patients across the full spectrum, from emergency care to recovery or transition to long-term therapies.

NHCS operates Singapore's largest ECMO programme, with over two decades of experience supporting more than 1,000 patients. Our programme performs around 75 procedures annually and has achieved international recognition, including the prestigious Silver Level Award from the global Extracorporeal Life Support Organisation.

Why early referral matters

ECMO is most effective when initiated at the right time. Delayed referral may reduce the chances of recovery and limit treatment options. Early assessment by a specialist centre allows for better decision-making and coordination of care.

How do I seek care or referral? 

• If you or a loved one is critically unwell, seek immediate emergency care.
• For medical professionals: Early referral to a specialised centre is recommended when patients show signs of severe cardiac or respiratory failure.

ECMO is a life-saving therapy used in severe heart or lung failure. It requires timely decision-making and care by an experienced, specialised team.