Feasibility, Safety, and Effectiveness of Neonatal Air Transport in India: A Case Series.
Indian Pediatrics · 2025-08-06 · Case report
Abstract
Fifteen sick neonates were transported to higher-level neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) using specially equipped aircraft with trained medical teams. The median (Q1, Q3) one-way distance traveled (km) was 710 (689, 1224.5), and the median (Q1, Q3) transit time and airborne time were 6 (5.5, 7) and 1.25 (1.22, 2.15) hours, respectively. Thirteen neonates needed mechanical ventilation and five needed inotrope support during transit. The median (Q1, Q3) NICU stay was 20 (13.5, 35) days. Twelve neonates (80%) were discharged, two (13.3%) left against medical advice, and one died. Air ambulance is a feasible, effective, and safe mode of transportation of critically ill neonates in India.
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Tags
Helicopter & air ambulance · Interfacility & critical care transport · Mechanical ventilation · Neonates
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