# Awake ECMO for Mid‐Tracheal Obstruction: When a Tracheostomy Isn't Enough

## TL;DR

Awake ECMO can save lives when tracheal blockage is severe and traditional airway methods are not possible.

## Contribution

This paper highlights awake VV-ECMO as a viable alternative for managing near-complete tracheal obstruction.

## Key findings

- Awake VV-ECMO is effective for patients with near-complete tracheal obstruction.
- Multidisciplinary coordination improves airway control and tumor management.
- ECMO facilitates both immediate stabilization and long-term cancer planning.

## Abstract

Awake VV‐ECMO can be a life‐saving strategy for patients with near‐complete tracheal obstruction where tracheostomy and intubation are not feasible. Early multidisciplinary coordination enables safe airway control, tumor debulking, and stenting, facilitating both immediate stabilization and long‐term oncologic planning.