Study of Air Transport of Trauma Patients in Esfahan

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Assistant Professor of General Surgery, Esfahan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Al-Zahra Hospital, Esfahan, Iran

2 General Practitioner, Esfahan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Esfahan, Iran

3 General Surgeon, Esfahan University of Medical Sciences and Health Services, Al-Zahra Hospital, Esfahan, Iran

Abstract
Introduction & Objective: One of the rapid ways for transporting patients in emergency situation is air transport. In the following study, we will discuss about the results of this kind of transport in Esfahan Province. Materials & Methods: In a retrospective study, all trauma patients that were transported to Al–Zahra University Hospital by helicopter since 2004 were investigated. Also, the information consisting of different transporting times, the kind of trauma, the geographical area of accident, the severity of trauma, patient transport indication and the result of transport were evaluated. Results: Approximately 46.15% of transport was done from Meimeh. Limb fracture and head injury have been the most prevalent trauma. The average time: before air transport: 8.72+8.9min; halting at accident place: 3.67+12.24 min and after transport, it was 5.14+5.5 min. The whole time of transport in 23.08 % of the cases was less than 60 min. Among 36 patients, 6 cases died, one during the flight and five after transport in CPR room. Conclusions: Helicopter is a suitable vehicle for patient transport in distances less than 100 km. We will investigate the indication of air transport by helicopter in adults, children and the burn patients. Then, we will discuss about the interdictions of the transport by helicopter and the technique of patients' triage for air transport. Moreover, we will present the recommendations about the improving the air transport.

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