Alexandria, VA – New research conducted by the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine shows a clear benefit of patient transport by helicopter for adult trauma patients. Findings demonstrate that helicopter transport is independently associated with improved odds of survival for these critically injured patients.
Trauma is the leading cause of death and disability among young people around the world, according to the researchers. In the United States, more than 50 million people are injured each year, resulting in approximately 169,000 deaths annually and a lifetime cost of $406 billion.
The Hopkins study, entitled “Association Between Helicopter vs. Ground Emergency Medical Services and Survival for Adults with Major Trauma” analyzed the outcomes of over 223,000 adult trauma patients transported by helicopter and ground ambulance using data from the National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB). The NTDB collects data from more than 900 trauma centers from across the nation. Patient data was adjusted for factors such as type and severity of injury, age, gender, and vital signs; as well as transport time and distance to trauma centers.
Results showed that “helicopter transportation was associated with statistically significant greater odds of survival.” The data indicated 16% improved odds of survival for patients transported by helicopter to a Level I trauma center, while illustrating a 15% boost for those transported to a Level II trauma center.
“While we are enthusiastic about the results of such a vigorous and robust research study, the findings help to substantiate what our members know from their experience in the field,” said Rick Sherlock, CEO of the Association of Air Medical Services (AAMS). “Transport by helicopter is a highly effective medical intervention, especially in rural areas where helicopters can function as the primary access to trauma care. The goal is the right patient transported with the right crew in the right vehicle to the right treatment facility.”
“Association Between Helicopter vs. Ground Emergency Medical Services and Survival for Adults with Major Trauma” appears in the April 18, 2012 issue of the Journal of the American Medical Association.