Current Concepts in Extracorporeal Life Support: Medical Management and High-Fidelity Cannulation Simulations – 1/4 Dec
Current Concepts in Extracorporeal Life Support: Medical Management and High-Fidelity Cannulation Simulations – 2026
Course Directors: Gregory J. Schears, M.D., Pramod K. Guru, M.B.B.S., Sanjay Chaudhary, M.B.B.S., and Troy G. Seelhammer, M.D.
December 1, 2026 – December 4, 2026 – Kinne Auditorium, Cannaday Building – Jacksonville, Florida
Extracorporeal life support (ECMO) is gaining attention as a rescue therapy for refractory cardiopulmonary failure. During COVID-19, it saved many lives worldwide and is now seen as a key 21st-century support tool. The challenge is optimizing its use for maximum benefit.
| Registration Fee(s) | |
|---|---|
| Pre-Course TEE Workshop | $450 |
| 2-Day General Session and High-Fidelity Workshop | $2100 |
| 2 Day General Session (Live or Livestream) | $1350 |
Target Audience
ECMO specialists, respiratory therapists, nurses, perfusionists and physicians specializing in critical care medicine, pulmonary medicine, emergency medicine, cardiothoracic surgery, and cardiology. Also, those interested in a foundational education in caring for the ECMO patient may benefit from this course.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this activity, participants should be able to:
- Distinguish between the primary types of ECMO support (VV, VA, ECPR) and describe their specific clinical applications.
- Identify key factors influencing patient eligibility for each ECMO modality, emphasizing appropriate selection based on clinical presentation and prognosis.
- Summarize evidence-based approaches to anticoagulation, transfusion protocols, and fluid management in patients undergoing ECMO therapy.
- Develop a comprehensive management plan that integrates ECMO indications, contraindications, and collaborative treatment modalities to enhance patient outcomes.
- Apply core ethical principles to the delivery of ECMO care, with attention to decision-making, patient autonomy, and resource allocation.
- Demonstrate the use of hemodynamic assessment tools—including POCUS and TEE—to guide and optimize ECMO management decisions.
- Examine strategies for coordinating ECMO therapy with other mechanical circulatory support devices to maximize therapeutic benefit.
- Determine the most effective cannulation techniques for various clinical situations, prioritizing safety and outcome optimization.
- Outline pharmacologic management strategies and best practice recommendations to support optimal outcomes during ECMO support.
Attendance at any Mayo Clinic course does not indicate or guarantee competence or proficiency in the skills, knowledge or performance of any care or procedure(s) which may be discussed or taught in this course.