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Neonatal survival during a 2,500-mile flight
H S Bjerke1, L Barcliff, R P Foglia
1Department of Surgery, University of Nevada School of Medicine, Las Vegas 89102.
Hawaii Medical Journal
|December 1, 1992
Summary
Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) offers a high survival rate for neonates with respiratory failure. Even over long distances, medical air transport enables successful ECMO referrals, improving infant outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neonatology
- Cardiopulmonary Support
Background:
- Neonatal respiratory failure can be refractory to conventional mechanical ventilation.
- Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has become a vital adjunct therapy with over 80% national survival.
- Resource limitations and costs necessitate the regionalization of ECMO centers.
Observation:
- Geographic barriers should not impede access to critical ECMO care.
- Medical air transport facilitates the transfer of neonates to specialized ECMO centers.
- A case involved a neonate transported 2,500 miles for ECMO therapy.
Findings:
- The neonate received ECMO therapy despite the significant transport distance.
- The patient experienced an excellent outcome following the intervention.
- Rapid recovery allowed for a timely return home.
Implications:
- Demonstrates the feasibility and success of long-distance ECMO referrals.
- Highlights the importance of air transport in expanding ECMO accessibility.
- Suggests that geographic distance is not an absolute contraindication for ECMO therapy in neonates.