Extracorporeal Life Support Organization

Extracorporeal Life Support Organization

Extracorporeal Life Support Organization logo

The Extracorporeal Life Support Organization (ELSO) is an international non-profit consortium of healthcare professionals and scientists dedicated to the development and advancement of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and other innovative therapies for patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure. ELSO provides a comprehensive registry of ECMO patient data, facilitates educational programs, and promotes research in the field of extracorporeal life support.

History

ELSO was founded in 1989 by a group of pioneering physicians and researchers who recognized the need for a collaborative effort to improve outcomes for patients requiring ECMO. The organization was established to provide a platform for sharing knowledge, standardizing practices, and advancing research in the field of extracorporeal support.

Mission and Objectives

The mission of ELSO is to improve the survival and quality of life in patients with severe cardiopulmonary failure through the advancement of extracorporeal life support. The organization's objectives include:

• Maintaining a comprehensive international registry of ECMO cases to facilitate research and improve clinical outcomes.
• Providing educational resources and training for healthcare professionals involved in ECMO.
• Developing and promoting guidelines and standards for the practice of ECMO.
• Supporting research initiatives to advance the science and technology of extracorporeal life support.

ELSO Registry

The ELSO Registry is a cornerstone of the organization's efforts to improve ECMO outcomes. It collects data from participating centers worldwide, providing a rich resource for research and quality improvement initiatives. The registry includes information on patient demographics, indications for ECMO, complications, and outcomes, allowing for comprehensive analysis and benchmarking.

Educational Programs

ELSO offers a variety of educational programs designed to enhance the knowledge and skills of healthcare professionals involved in ECMO. These programs include:

• Workshops and training courses on ECMO techniques and management.
• Online educational resources and webinars.
• Annual conferences and symposia that bring together experts in the field to share the latest research and clinical practices.

Research and Innovation

ELSO actively supports research initiatives aimed at advancing the science of extracorporeal life support. The organization provides grants and funding opportunities for innovative research projects and collaborates with academic institutions and industry partners to drive technological advancements in ECMO.

Guidelines and Standards

To ensure the highest quality of care for patients undergoing ECMO, ELSO develops and disseminates guidelines and standards for clinical practice. These guidelines cover a wide range of topics, including patient selection, cannulation techniques, management of complications, and weaning from ECMO support.

Related Pages

• Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
• Cardiopulmonary bypass
• Intensive care medicine
• Critical care nursing