Long-distance fixed-wing transport of obstetrical patients.

OBJECTIVES

Aeromedical obstetrical transports are mostly performed utilizing helicopters. The program here reviewed performs mostly fixed-wing transports. The purpose of the current study is to review our fixed-wing transfers and identify the complications encountered.

METHODS

A retrospective review was conducted of the fixed-wing obstetrical air transports performed by the StatCare aeromedical transport service from July 1, 2000 through June 30, 2002. Information on each patient (age, gestational age, gravida status, diagnosis, preflight physical examination) was collected using a data sheet. Also noted were any described complications.

RESULTS

During the 24-month study period, 80 fixed-wing transports were performed. In-flight complications included nausea and vomiting (80%), increased contractions (8.8%), hypertension (1.3%), hypotension (1.3%), decreased maternal respiratory drive (1.3%), and infiltrated intravenous line (1.3%).

CONCLUSIONS

The complications encountered during long-distance fixed-wing aeromedical transport of obstetrical patients include nausea and vomiting, increased contractions, hypertension, hypotension, decreased maternal respiratory drive, and an infiltrated intravenous line.