The Role of Medical Helicopter and Ground Medical Crews in Polytrauma Management: An Evaluative Perspective.

INTRODUCTION

Polytrauma remains a major global health challenge, with rapid intervention being critical for survival, especially during the "Golden Hour". This study examines the impact of Helicopter Emergency Medical Services (HEMS) on procedural care during the transfer of polytraumatized patients to urban hospitals in Romania.

METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the County Emergency Hospital "St. Ap. Andrei" in Galați, covering January 2020 to October 2021. The study analyzed data from 89 patients transported by the Romania's Mobile Emergency Service for Resuscitation and Extrication (SMURD) Galați air unit. Key parameters included demographics, injury mechanism, vital statistics, and prehospital interventions. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS, with significance set at p < 0.05.

RESULTS

Out of 89 patients (mean age 21.6 years, 80.3% male), trauma causes were primarily traffic accidents (34.8%) and falls (33.7%). A Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score ≤8 was noted in 28.1% of cases, with head trauma observed in 51.6% of patients. HEMS interventions frequently involved oxygen therapy (89.5%) and patient stabilization maneuvers, leading to a mortality rate of 6.7%. Notably, helicopter transport enabled efficient transfer and improved survival outcomes in this cohort.

DISCUSSION

HEMS demonstrated benefits in reducing intervention times and enhancing prehospital care quality for polytrauma patients, especially in hard-to-reach areas. The study aligns with global data on HEMS's role in trauma systems, underlining the importance of multidisciplinary collaboration and rapid transport.

CONCLUSION

HEMS plays a crucial role in improving survival rates for severely injured patients through timely interventions and specialized care. Further research comparing HEMS and ground services could refine trauma management protocols in similar settings.