What chance does someone have for a normal life after ECMO?

ECMO is a lifesaving tool when a child's heart or lungs are failing badly, but it comes with risks, and the long-term outlook varies depending on why ECMO was needed, how long it was used, any complications like brain injury during the process, and the child's underlying condition.

Many children who survive to leave the hospital do go on to have good quality of life and reach important milestones. They attend regular school (sometimes with extra support like tutoring or an individualized education plan), participate in activities, make friends, and grow into independent adults who work, drive, and build their own lives.

With early and consistent therapy—physical, occupational, speech, or developmental support starting in the hospital and continuing after discharge—many of these children make excellent progress. Regular follow-up with specialists (like pediatric neurologists or developmental pediatricians) helps catch things early and adjust support as needed.

At Driscoll Children's Hospital, we emphasize structured follow-up after ECMO. This includes regular developmental assessments, neurologic checks, and therapies to maximize every child's potential. We'll track your child's progress closely, celebrate the improvements, and adjust plans as they grow.