Outcomes and risk factors of transported patients with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: An ECMO center experience.

Background: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has been proven to be a support method and technology for patients with cardiopulmonary failure. However, the transport of patients under ECMO support is challenging given the high-risk technical maneuvers and patient-care concerns involved. Herein, we examined the safety of ECMO during the transport of critically ill patients and its impact on mortality rates, to provide more secure and effective transport strategies in clinical practice. Method: To assess the safety of ECMO patient transport, this study conducted a retrospective analysis on critically ill adults who required ECMO support and transport at the intensive care unit (ICU) center between 2017 and 2023. The study utilized standard ECMO transport protocols and conducted a comprehensive statistical analysis of the collected clinical data and transport processes. The 28-day survival rate for ECMO patients was determined using Kaplan-Meier analysis, while logistic regression identified prognostic factors. Result: Out of 303 patients supported with ECMO, 111 (36.6%) were transported. 69.4% of the transport group were male, mean age was (42.0±17.0) years, mean body mass index was (24.4±4.6) kg/m Conclusion: Transporting patients on ECMO between medical facilities is a safe procedure that does not increase patient mortality rates, provided it is orchestrated and executed by proficient transport teams. The prognostic outcome for these patients is predominantly influenced by their pre-existing medical conditions or by complications that may develop during the course of ECMO therapy. These results form the basis for the creation of specialized ECMO network hubs within healthcare regions.