Current state of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation training in pediatric subspecialty fellowships

Introduction Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) is a highly complex support modality that requires specialized training for successful and optimal management and patient care. Literature regarding ECMO education provided to pediatric subspecialty physicians is limited. We conducted a survey study of pediatric critical care medicine (PCCM), neonatal-perinatal medicine (NPM), and pediatric surgery (PS) fellowship directors with the goal of understanding the extent of ECMO education offered in these training programs. Methods Surveys were sent via email to 77 PCCM, 110 NPM, and 51 PS directors. Results The overall response rate was 56%, with PCCM fellowship directors being the highest percentage of respondents. Most fellowships provided separate ECMO training in the form of a course, typically lasting ≤2 days and primarily conducted for first-year fellows. Other ECMO educational opportunities included lectures, simulation, and case-based discussions. A majority of the responding fellowship directors in PCCM and PS felt that ECMO management was a core competency of training (96% PCCM, 95% PS). However, a minority reported a formal assessment of ECMO management competency. Conclusion This study highlights substantial variation in ECMO educational practices and limited competency evaluation across pediatric subspecialty training programs.