An in vitro physiologic model for cardiopulmonary simulation: a system for ECMO training.

Extracorporeal life support (ELS) systems may be run by certified perfusionists, specially trained nurses or respiratory therapy staff. Guidelines for the training, certification and retraining of ELS operators have been established by the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization. Recommendations include "... a well defined program for staff training, certification, and retraining". Some clinicians have suggested that ELS operators be certified and recertified in an animal laboratory. But such practice involves veterinary expenses, animal use issues and considerable clean-up and disposal. We describe an alternative method of training, using an in vitro physiologic model designed to simulate various pathophysiologic states. In addition, the in vitro physiologic model may be used to evaluate membrane lung characteristics. This model's ease of construction, maintenance and use for training compared with live animal techniques are discussed. Research capabilities may be more flexible than with the use of the live animal technique. The in vitro physiologic model can be a useful and convenient asset to an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation/extracorporeal carbon dioxide removal (ECMO/ECCO2R) program.