The International journal of artificial organs
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Data on prolonged extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) usage in influenza associated acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) are lacking. Furthermore, no consensus exists on when to terminate ECMO treatment in refractory cases. This report highlights additional treatment measures and complications in prolonged ECMO therapy and discusses associated ethical burdens. ⋯ Our experience suggests that prolonged ECMO therapy may be provided as long as only 1-organ failure exists and no lung fibrosis occurs. Active physical therapy, facilitated by ECMO treatment, is crucial and should be performed as early as possible.