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[Is there a doctor on board?].
Frédéric Lapostolle1, David Corège, Didier Sordelet
1SAMU 93, Hôpital Avicenne, F-93009 Bobigny Cedex, France. frederic.lapostolle@avc.aphp.fr
Presse Medicale (Paris, France : 1983)
|December 17, 2009
Summary
In-flight medical emergencies are rising, with gastrointestinal, cardiac, and neurological issues most common. Airlines equip planes with medical supplies and trained staff to manage these events safely.
Area of Science:
- Aviation Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
Context:
- Increasing air travel leads to more in-flight medical incidents.
- Cabin environment (hypoxia, hypobaria, low humidity) contributes to medical issues.
- Estimated 350 daily medical incidents globally, or 1 per 14,000-39,600 passengers.
Purpose:
- To review the scope and management of medical problems encountered during commercial flights.
- To outline current practices and recommendations for medical interventions on aircraft.
- To inform healthcare professionals and airlines about in-flight medical care protocols.
Summary:
- Gastrointestinal (25%), cardiac (10%), and neurological (10%) diseases are the primary causes of medical incidents.
- Cardiac arrest occurs in approximately 1000 flights annually worldwide.
- Airlines provide medical equipment, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), and crew training.
Impact:
- Medical advice is sought in 69% of cases, often from onboard physicians, nurses, or paramedics.
- Good Samaritan laws protect medical professionals providing aid.
- Standardized protocols guide physician response, including patient consent, examination, communication, and potential flight diversion.
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