22: Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation in a Near Drowning Patient

Background: Near drowning can lead to significant pulmonary complications, often resulting in hypoxic respiratory failure. Traditional management strategies may be insufficient in severe cases, necessitating advanced support like ECMO. This case report describes the use of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in a near-drowning patient presenting with severe respiratory failure. Methods: We present a case involving a young adult who experienced near drowning, subsequently developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). Initial treatment included standard supportive care and mechanical ventilation, which proved inadequate. ECMO was initiated to provide effective gas exchange and respiratory support. Results: The patient showed marked improvement in oxygenation and ventilation parameters post-ECMO initiation. Over a course of several days, respiratory function stabilized, allowing for gradual weaning from ECMO. Follow-up assessments revealed full recovery without significant long-term complications. Conclusion: ECMO can be a lifesaving intervention in near-drowning cases with severe respiratory failure, offering an alternative when conventional therapies fail. This case highlights the potential benefits of early ECMO referral and underscores the need for further studies to optimize management strategies in similar scenarios.