Improving ECMO treatment by eliminating the need for blood thinners

ECMO without Anticoagulation

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR · NIH-10879032

This study is looking at a new coating for ECMO machines that could help prevent blood clots without needing blood thinners, which might make the treatment safer for patients who are very sick.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN AT ANN ARBOR (nih funded)
Locations1 site (ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10879032 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a new surface coating for ECMO machines that could prevent blood clotting without the use of anticoagulants. By using a nitric oxide-based coating, the study aims to reduce complications such as bleeding and clotting that currently affect many patients on ECMO. The approach involves refining this nonthrombogenic surface and comparing its effectiveness to traditional anticoagulation methods. If successful, this could lead to safer ECMO procedures for critically ill patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are critically ill patients requiring ECMO support, particularly those at high risk for bleeding or clotting complications.

Not a fit: Patients who are not candidates for ECMO or those with conditions that contraindicate the use of ECMO will not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce the risks of bleeding and clotting complications for patients undergoing ECMO treatment.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using nitric oxide for anticoagulation, but this specific application in ECMO is novel.

Where this research is happening

ANN ARBOR, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.