ECMO Experts Comprehensive Course

This is a 3-day intensive ECMO course being held January 29-31, 2026 at the Critical Care Department, Kasr Al Ainy, Cairo University.

The course is co-organized by the Egyptian ECMO Working Group (A division of ECCCP) in collaboration of the Critical care Departement , cairo University and led by Prof. Akram Abdel Bary and team.

Course Content Overview

The program combines theoretical lectures with extensive hands-on practical training covering:

Fundamental ECMO Concepts:

• ECMO physiology, modes, and circuit components
• Cannulation techniques and recirculation management
• VV ECMO (Veno-Venous) for respiratory failure
• VA ECMO (Veno-Arterial) for cardiac support
• ECPR (Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation)

Clinical Applications:

• ARDS management
• Cardiac failure and mechanical circulatory assistance
• Mechanical ventilation strategies during ECMO
• Awake ECMO protocols
• ECMO transport considerations

Advanced Topics:

• Complications and troubleshooting
• Monitoring parameters and techniques
• Medication management on ECMO
• Physiotherapy for ECMO patients
• Procedures and renal replacement therapy (RRT)
• ECMO weaning strategies

Practical Skills:

• Circuit priming and de-airing
• Console operation
• Oxygenator failure management
• Accidental decannulation scenarios
• Multiple simulation scenarios

Learning Objectives

By attending this course, participants will be able to:

1. Understand ECMO Fundamentals – Explain the physiological principles, different ECMO modes, and indications for VV and VA ECMO support
2. Master Circuit Management – Demonstrate proficiency in circuit assembly, priming, de-airing, and identifying circuit components
3. Perform Safe Cannulation – Understand cannulation strategies, recognize recirculation, and manage cannula-related complications
4. Manage ECMO Patients – Apply appropriate ventilation strategies, medication adjustments, and monitoring techniques for patients on ECMO support
5. Handle Emergency Situations – Respond effectively to critical complications including oxygenator failure, accidental decannulation, and circuit emergencies
6. Troubleshoot Technical Problems – Identify and resolve common ECMO-related issues through systematic troubleshooting approaches
7. Implement ECMO in Special Scenarios – Manage ECPR, ECMO transport, and awake ECMO protocols safely
8. Coordinate Multidisciplinary Care – Integrate physiotherapy, procedures, and RRT while maintaining ECMO support
9. Execute Weaning Protocols – Assess readiness for weaning and implement evidence-based weaning strategies
10. Apply Clinical Decision-Making – Synthesize knowledge through case simulations and scenario-based learning to make appropriate clinical judgments

The course includes pre- and post-testing to assess knowledge acquisition and provides extensive hands-on experience through simulation stations with expert supervision.