Ann Arbor, Michigan – Dr. Robert H. Bartlett, known as the 'Father of ECMO,' has passed away at 86 years old.

 Ann Arbor, Michigan, mourns the loss of Dr. Robert H. Bartlett, a pioneering surgeon and researcher who passed away on October 20, 2025, at the age of 86. Globally recognized as the “Father of ECMO” (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation), Dr. Bartlett’s contributions to medical science have been instrumental in saving more than 100,000 lives worldwide.

Born on May 8, 1939, in Ann Arbor, Dr. Bartlett was the eldest among four children. His father held a position as a surgical resident at the University of Michigan, influencing his decision to pursue medicine from an early age. The family later moved to Akron, Ohio, where he spent his childhood before returning to Michigan for his undergraduate studies at Albion College and for his medical degree at the University of Michigan Medical School.

After completing his medical education, Dr. Bartlett engaged in a residency in general and thoracic surgery at the prestigious Peter Bent Brigham and Children’s Hospitals located in Boston. It was during this period that he dedicated himself to advancing life-saving technologies. In 1970, he joined the faculty at the University of California, Irvine, where he focused on researching extracorporeal life support systems.

In 1976, Dr. Bartlett, together with his colleagues, achieved a remarkable medical milestone by effectively using ECMO on an infant with severe lung failure. This occurrence represented the first successful application of ECMO on a newborn, setting the stage for more widespread implementation in critical care environments.

Dr. Bartlett returned to Michigan in 1980 to further his work at the University of Michigan Medical School. He continued to serve as an active emeritus surgeon and professor, committing his career to the advancement of critical care medicine. His research focused on improving ECMO technology and exploring artificial organs designed to support patients with heart and lung failures.

In 1989, Dr. Bartlett founded the Extracorporeal Life Support Organization, a global network designed to advance ECMO technology and support healthcare providers worldwide. Under his leadership, ELSO has been vital in saving numerous lives, remaining a key resource in critical care medicine.

Throughout his esteemed career, Dr. Bartlett received many accolades, such as the William E. Ladd Medal from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the Medallion of Achievement from the American Surgical Association. His work has gained international acclaim, and he has mentored many individuals in the medical community.

Alongside his professional achievements, Dr. Bartlett was known for his humility, kindness, and dedication to his patients. He was immensely committed to mentoring the next generation of medical professionals, profoundly impacting the fields of surgery and critical care.