Application value of ECMO in severe cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia

Novel coronavirus pneumonia is prevalent and spreading in Wuhan and it has the characteristics of high infectivity and high mortality in severe patients. Some severe cases can result in death related to respiratory and/or circulatory failure. In the absence of effective drugs for novel coronavirus pneumonia, respiratory and circulatory functions can be supported simultaneously by ECMO, which can provide critical time for the treatment of severe patients. This review will discuss application values of ECMO in severe cases of novel coronavirus pneumonia.