A literature review on ECMO in Pregnant and Postpartum Women

Author Name: Ms. Smiral , Tadvi Mayank, Suthar Krupaben

Volume: 03/02

Country: India

DOI NO.: 11.2023-61555522 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/09.2025-25721324/GIJNR

Affiliation:

1. Asst. Professor, Parul Institute of Nursing, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat.
2. Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Students, Parul institute of Nursing, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat.
3. Post Basic B.Sc. Nursing Students, Parul institute of Nursing, Parul University, Vadodara, Gujarat.

ABSTRACT

Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) has emerged as a crucial lifesaving intervention for critically ill patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure. Its application in pregnant and postpartum women has gained increasing attention in recent years, especially in cases where conventional therapies fail to stabilize the patient. Pregnancy is associated with significant physiological changes, including increased blood volume, altered immune response, and heightened oxygen demand, which can predispose women to complications such as acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), peripartum cardiomyopathy, and thromboembolic events. These complications, if not managed promptly, can lead to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. This literature review explores the effectiveness, safety, and challenges of ECMO in managing critically ill pregnant and postpartum women by synthesizing findings from various case reports, cohort studies, and clinical guidelines. The review focuses on key aspects including survival rates, timing and indications for ECMO initiation, maternal-fetal considerations, complications, and ethical concerns. Evidence suggests that maternal survival rates range between 64–80% when ECMO is applied early and managed by specialized, multidisciplinary teams. However, risks such as bleeding, infection, and technical challenges associated with cannulation require careful management. The review also highlights the importance of balancing maternal stabilization with fetal outcomes, especially in preterm deliveries. The findings underscore that ECMO is a viable option in obstetric care, provided that healthcare providers follow structured protocols and ethical decision-making processes. Continued research and data collection are essential for refining management strategies and improving patient outcomes.

Key words: Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO), Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS), Maternal survival rates.