Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation for Adult Respiratory Distress Syndrome after Near-drowning

Background: Near-drowning victims surviving the initial period of asphyxia may develop life-threatening adult respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). We highlight current understanding of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) for successful clinical management of severe ARDS in adult near-drowning victims with reference to a recent case of accidental submersion. Patient: Previously healthy 18-year-old female near-drowning victim with progressive hypoxaemia, hypercapnaemia, acidaemia and multiple organ failure. Results: Rapid restitution of respiratory function during a three-day period of treatment with venovenous ECMO. Conclusion: Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is a feasible option in near-drowning adult victims with progressive ARDS not responding appropriately to conventional protective ventilation.