First Successful ECMO Procedure at Fattouma Bourguiba Hospital’s Versatile Intensive Care Unit
The Versatile Intensive Care Unit (ICU) of Fattouma Bourguiba Hospital in Monastir, led by Lamia Ouanes Besbes, performed its first extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) on Sunday, 22 February 2026.
- Patient: 21‑year‑old male suffering from global heart failure complicated by a refractory shock state that did not respond to vasoactive drugs.
- Procedure: ECMO – a temporary circulatory and respiratory support technique used in critical situations when conventional treatments are no longer sufficient.
Statement from Dr. Lamia Ouanes Besbes
In a post on the unit’s official Facebook page, Dr. Ouanes Besbes explained that the success of ECMO depends on rigorous coordination, multidisciplinary expertise, and rapid response from the medical teams.
“ECMO is a life‑saving bridge for patients whose hearts and lungs can no longer sustain adequate oxygenation on their own. Its effectiveness hinges on seamless teamwork and continuous training.”
Significance for Monastir’s Intensive Care Services
Hospital staff describe this milestone as a major advancement for Monastir’s ICU, made possible by:
- Collective mobilization of the entire care team.
- Ongoing professional training and skill development.
The achievement was supported by:
- The Cardiovascular Surgery Team of the CHU de Sahloul, led by Professor Chokri Kortas.
- The Ministry of Health, Fattouma Bourguiba Hospital, and the Regional Health Directorate of Monastir.
Acknowledgments
The unit also praised the daily commitment of all medical and paramedical staff in intensive care. Their professionalism, collaboration, and mutual support for patients and families are highlighted as key factors behind the success.
Looking Ahead
This pioneering ECMO intervention opens the door to stronger medical capabilities in critical care across Monastir and marks an important step forward for intensive care development in Tunisia.
