Medical definitions - E

A  B  C  D  E  F  G  H  I  J  K  L  M   N  O  P  Q  R  S  T  U  V  W  X  Y  Z

Echocardiogram - a graphic outline of the heart's movement; an ultrasound provides pictures of the heart's valves and chambers; allows an evaluation of the pumping action of the heart.

ECMO – extracorporeal membrane oxygenation; a life support system that circulates the blood through an oxygenating system. ECMO is like a heart/lung machine that takes over the work of the heart and lungs. ECMO is only used for limited time because of the high risks of bleeding, clotting, infection and organ failure.

ECMO flow – the amount of blood moved through the ECMO circuit (system) per minute.

ECMO pump – controls the amount of support given while on ECMO; it acts as an artificial heart.

Edema – swelling.

Edwards syndrome – also known as Trisomy 18; there are three instead of the normal two chromosomes #18. Children with this condition have multiple malformations and mental retardation due to the extra chromosome #18. The children characteristically have low birth weight, small head (microcephaly), small jaw (micrognathia), malformations of the heart and kidneys, clenched fists with abnormal finger positioning, and malformed feet.

ET tube – endotracheal tube; a tube placed through the patient's nose or mouth to help provide mechanical or manual ventilation.

Evacuate – to drain.