Rehabilitation on Advanced Cardiopulmonary Support: ECMO, LVADs, and Transplant Pathways

Course overview

Advances in cardiopulmonary support technologies including extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), left ventricular assist devices (LVADs), and heart transplantation have transformed survival for patients with advanced cardiac and pulmonary failure. As a result, rehabilitation professionals are increasingly managing patients across the continuum who are supported by these complex therapies, often while critically ill. These patients present with unique physiologic challenges, including altered hemodynamics, device dependence, prolonged immobility, and multi-system impairments that require specialized clinical reasoning and coordinated interdisciplinary care. This live interactive course provides an integrated, case-based approach to rehabilitation for patients receiving advanced cardiopulmonary support. Participants will develop an understanding of the underlying physiology, medical management, and device-specific considerations that influence rehabilitation decision-making. Emphasis will be placed on safe and effective mobilization strategies, progression across phases of care (ICU to post-acute), and navigating clinical complexity. Through real-world cases, learners will gain practical tools to optimize mobility, support recovery, and contribute meaningfully to outcomes in this high-acuity population.