Original Article
A case of early aeromedical evacuation of severe craniocerebral firearm explosion injury and literature review
Ma Yujie, Li Jin, Zhou Yan, Wang Jun, Wang Lei, Zhang Jiakang, Li Falin
Published 2022-09-15
Cite as Chin J Aerospace Med, 2022, 33(3): 147-153. DOI: 10.3760/cma.j.cn113854-20220318-00033
Abstract
ObjectiveTo discuss the feasibility of early aeromedical evacuation (AE) for the wounded with severe craniocerebral firearm explosion injury.
MethodsThe whole procedure of an AE mission for a case of severe craniocerebral firearm explosion injury was reported, and relevant literatures were reviewed.
ResultsThe forehead of a 20-year-old male patient was accidentally hit by grenade shrapnel in training and he was diagnosed as severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI). Emergency debridement and decompression were performed. The patient was transported to Tangdu Hospital, Air Force Medical University by 1.5 h of AE flight 12 h after operation. CT scan showed ventricular dilation after decompression and multiple softening foci in brain parenchyma 4 months after the injury.
ConclusionsEarly-stage AE for sTBI patient is feasible with careful and thorough preflight assessment and professionalized ongoing intensive care.
Key words:
Craniocerebral trauma; Firearm wound; Aeromedical evacuation
Contributor Information
Ma Yujie
Department of Critical Care Medicine, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
Li Jin
Department of Critical Care Medicine, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
Zhou Yan
Department of Neurosurgery, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
Wang Jun
Department of Urology, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
Wang Lei
Department of Pharmacy, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
Zhang Jiakang
Department of Medical and Research, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China
Li Falin
Department of Aviation Lifesaving Research, Air Force Medical Center, PLA, Beijing 100142, China