Veno-venous ECMO (VV-ECMO) is primarily a respiratory support modality, but its physiology is often oversimplified. In this episode, we walk through VV-ECMO from a practical, clinician-focused perspective. We discuss what VV-ECMO is, how the circuit is configured, key anatomic considerations for cannulation, and the core components of the system. We also review common VV-ECMO settings and how changes in flow, sweep gas, and oxygen fraction impact oxygenation and carbon dioxide clearance. This episode is intended for emergency medicine and critical care clinicians, residents, and medical students who want a clear mental model of VV-ECMO and how it supports patients with severe respiratory failure. Link to YouTube Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IN9lj5OVobk 📚 Download the PDF study guide for this video: 👉 https://www.patreon.com/c/WhiteBoardMedicine Patreon members get access to mini-courses, study guides, practice questions, ad-free videos, and in-depth educational discussions designed for emergency and critical care clinicians. This is a fast, high-yield overview designed for emergency medicine, critical care, ICU clinicians, residents, and medical students. Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Clinical decisions should be made by licensed healthcare professionals using their clinical judgment, institutional protocols, and current evidence. Whiteboard Medicine assumes no responsibility for clinical outcomes.

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“What did the council decide on item 42?” — answered with the speaker and the moment.

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