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Is there a neurologist on this flight?
J I Sirven1, D W Claypool, K L Sahs
1Department of Neurology, Mayo Clinic, Scottsdale, AZ 85259, USA. Sirven.Joseph@mayo.edu
Neurology
|June 27, 2002
Summary
Neurologic events are the most common in-flight medical issue, causing significant airline diversions and costs. Enhancing medical kits with antiepileptic drugs and training could mitigate these neurologic incidents.
Area of Science:
- Aerospace Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Neurology
Background:
- In-flight medical emergencies pose significant challenges for airlines and passengers.
- Neurologic events are a frequent cause of medical consultations and diversions during air travel.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the frequency of neurologic events on commercial flights.
- To evaluate the adequacy of current onboard medical kits for neurologic emergencies.
- To assess the economic impact of diversions due to neurologic events.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of a database of air-to-ground medical consultations from 1995-2000 for a major US airline.
- Classification of neurologic symptoms and calculation of diversion costs.
- Extrapolation of costs to the US airline industry.
Main Results:
- Neurologic symptoms accounted for 31% of medical calls and 34% of diversions.
- Dizziness/vertigo, seizures, and headaches were the most common neurologic symptoms.
- Annual diversion costs due to neurologic events were estimated at nearly $9 million.
Conclusions:
- Neurologic symptoms are the leading cause of medical diversions, second only to cardiovascular issues.
- Onboard medical kits could be improved by including antiepileptic drugs.
- Enhanced emergency medical training for flight personnel may reduce diversions for neurologic incidents.