Updates in Neonatal Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation and the Artificial Placenta

• Published in: Clinics in perinatology Vol. 49; no. 4; pp. 873 - 891
• Main Authors: Spencer, Brianna L., Mychaliska, George B.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 01-12-2022
• Subjects: Artificial Organs; Artificial placenta; Child; ECLS; Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation; Female; Humans; Infant; Infant, Extremely Premature; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Premature, Diseases; Neonatal ECMO; Placenta; Preemie ECMO; Pregnancy; Artificial placenta; ECLS; Preemie ECMO; Neonatal ECMO
• ISSN: 0095-5108; 1557-9840
• DOI: 10.1016/j.clp.2022.07.002

Extracorporeal life support, initially performed in neonates, is now commonly used for both pediatric and adult patients requiring pulmonary and/or cardiac support. Data suggests the clinical feasibility of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for premature infants (29–33 weeks estimated gestational age [EGA]). For extremely premature infants less than 28 weeks EGA, an artificial placenta has been developed to recreate the fetal environment. This approach is investigational but clinical translation is promising. In this article, we discuss the current state and advances in neonatal and “preemie Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation” and the development of an artificial placenta and its potential use in extremely premature infants.