NSW ECLS is a coordinated statewide network that supports the delivery of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) and mechanical circulatory support (MCS) for patients with severe cardiac or respiratory failure.
The network brings together clinicians, retrieval teams, and system partners to ensure a consistent and reliable approach to ECLS care across New South Wales. NSW ECLS works closely with Intensive Care NSW to align services, share resources, and support clinical decision-making.
A central function of the network is the NSW ECLS Retrieval Service, which enables the safe transfer of patients—from both ECMO-capable and non-capable hospitals—to specialised centres at St Vincent’s Hospital and Royal Prince Alfred Hospital for advanced care.
In addition to clinical coordination, NSW ECLS supports education, training, and research in ECMO and MCS. The network helps build local capability by providing practical support to clinicians managing patients on ECMO and MCS, particularly in hospitals without dedicated programs.
Through these activities, NSW ECLS helps maintain a connected system of care and contributes to improved outcomes for critically ill patients across the state of NSW.