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UMC's ECMO Team Celebrates Success in Saving Young Life from Poisoning

El Paso Matters••Special to El Paso Matters
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Diego Caballero, a 19-year-old who suffered from severe carbon monoxide poisoning, credits the ECMO team at University Medical Center of El Paso for saving his life. After being found unconscious in his car, he was treated with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, which provided critical support for his heart and lungs. His father described the ordeal as terrifying, with doctors warning of potential organ damage. The ECMO program, which recently marked its one-year anniversary, has exceeded expectations by treating 30 patients instead of the anticipated 12. This life-saving technology is unique to UMC in the region, showcasing the hospital's commitment to advanced medical care.

Key Details: • Diego Caballero was treated for carbon monoxide poisoning at UMC. • UMC's ECMO program launched on January 30, 2025, and has treated 30 patients in its first year. • ECMO is used for severe respiratory or cardiac failure and is the only program of its kind in the region.

umc health medical carbon-monoxide ecmo

People & Organizations

University Medical Center of El PasoTexas Tech Health El PasoDiego CaballeroJesus CaballeroDr. Tiffany LaskyDr. Leo Mercer

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