ECMO-Assisted Helicopter Transport of Cardiogenic Shock Patients: A Single-Center Experience

Objective: To summarize the clinical experience and insights of helicopter transport of cardiogenic shock patients supported by extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) . Methods: Clinical data of cardiogenic shock patients supported by ECMO and transported by helicopter were retrospectively collected from December 2021 to July 2024, including demographics, ECMO indications, clinical changes, adverse events, and outcomes, Data included patient demographics, diagnoses, ECMO indications, in-transit clinical changes, adverse events, primary treatment measures, and hospital outcomes. Flight mission data were also gathered, encompassing transport distance, time from mission determination to takeoff, flight approval time, takeoff time, flight duration, ground handover time, and transport time. Results: A total of 12 cases of ECMO-supported helicopter transport for cardiogenic shock were identified, including 9 cases of acute myocardial infarction, 2 cases of fulminant myocarditis, and 1 case of myocardiopathy. One adverse event occurred due to overheating, managed with a hand crank pump, with no severe complications. Median transport distance was 201 km, and times were as follows: mission determination to takeoff 30 min, flight duration 82 min, ground handover 114 min, and transport time 83 min. Direct transport had a longer ground transfer time than indirect transport (168 vs. 103 min, P=0.006). Conclusions: Helicopter transport of ECMO-supported cardiogenic shock patients is safe, effective, and reduces transport time, enhancing treatment for critical cardiac patients.