Surgical and medical emergencies on board European aircraft: a retrospective study of 10189 cases.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

In-flight medical and surgical emergencies (IMEs) onboard commercial aircrafts occur quite commonly. However, little epidemiological research exists concerning these incidents.

Methods

Thirty-two European airlines were asked to provide anonymous data on medical flight reports of IMEs for the years 2002 to 2007. The total number of incidents was correlated to revenue passenger kilometers (rpk). Additionally, on-board births and deaths, flight diversions, flight routes (continental/intercontinental) and involvement of a physician or medical professional in providing therapy were analysed.

Results

Only four airlines, of which two participated in this study, were able to provide the necessary data. A total of 10,189 cases of IMEs were analysed. Syncope was th

SUBMITTER: Sand M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2688113 | biostudies-literature | 2009

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature