UK collaborative randomised trial of neonatal extracorporeal membrane oxygenation: follow-up to age 4 years.

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) is a supportive intensive-care technique used for babies with acute respiratory failure. We examined morbidity at age 4 years in surviving children recruited to the UK Collaborative ECMO Trial, and provide long-term data on ECMO support compared with contemporary conventional care. The neonatal ECMO policy resulted in improved survival and a favourable outcome. We therefore advocate the safety and efficacy of this intervention.