Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: In for a Penny, In for a Pound.

The editorial titled "Venovenous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation: In for a Penny, In for a Pound" discusses the impact of a recent study on the practice of venovenous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV ECMO). The study challenges the traditional understanding of VV ECMO as a "bridge to recovery" and suggests that prolonged runs of VV ECMO may still result in good survival outcomes. The article highlights the need for better communication with patients and their families regarding the expected duration of VV ECMO and the possibility of additional procedures. It also emphasizes the importance of timely referral and transfer of patients on VV ECMO to a transplant center for lung transplantation. The article raises concerns about clinician burnout and resource allocation for patients with prolonged critical illness. It suggests that identifying variables associated with reduced VV ECMO time and optimizing functional recovery should be the focus of future studies. The article concludes by advocating for higher reimbursement for VV ECMO patients due to their continued survival. [Extracted from the article]