CPT® Code 33948

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)/extracorporeal life support (ECLS) provided by physician; daily management, each day, veno-venous

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and extracorporeal life support (ECLS) are terms that refer to advanced medical techniques used to provide long-term support for patients experiencing severe heart and lung failure. These procedures typically last from three to ten days and involve the circulation of blood outside the body through an artificial lung, which oxygenates the blood before returning it to the patient's bloodstream. In the specific case of veno-venous (V-V) ECMO/ECLS, blood is drawn from a large central vein, oxygenated, and then returned to the venous system. This method is primarily utilized for patients suffering from respiratory failure without significant cardiac dysfunction. The primary goal of V-V ECMO/ECLS is to enhance the levels of oxygen (O2) in the circulating blood while simultaneously reducing carbon dioxide (CO2) levels. By doing so, it allows for a reduction in the required level of ventilator support, which can help minimize the risk of ventilator-induced lung injury. The management of V-V ECMO/ECLS is typically overseen by an intensive care unit (ICU) intensivist, with continuous monitoring provided by a dedicated team of perfusion specialists, ensuring that the patient receives comprehensive care throughout the duration of the support.