Air medical journal
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Air medical journal · Nov 2009
ReviewLives saved by helicopter emergency medical services: an overview of literature.
The objective of this review is to give an overview of literature on the survival benefits of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS). The included studies were assessed by study design and statistical methodology. ⋯ Literature shows a clear positive effect on survival associated with HEMS assistance. Efforts should be made to promote consistent methodology, including uniform outcome parameters, in order to provide sufficient scientific evidence to conclude the ongoing debate about the beneficial effects of HEMS.
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In Europe, long-distance repatriation flights are usually executed by fixed-wing aircraft. We report an international long-distance repatriation flight by the helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS), with a total flight time of almost 7 hours. ⋯ The treatment of the patient during the flight was not affected by the extraordinarily long distance. We conclude that a combination of appropriate preflight planning, radio communication, and close cooperation with legal authorities is the key to accomplishing a successful execution of an international repatriation missions by the HEMS.