One-year survival of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage after airplane transatlantic transfer – a monocenter retrospective study

Abstract

Background Aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH) is preferentially treated by prompt endovascular coiling, which is not available in Guadeloupe. Subsequently, patients are transferred to Paris, France mainland, by commercial airplane (6751 km flight) after being managed according to guidelines. This study describes the characteristics, management and outcomes related to these patients. Methods Retrospective observational cohort study of 148 patients admitted in intensive care unit for a suspected aSAH and transferred by airplane over a 10-year period (2010–2019). Results The median [interquartile range] age was 53 [45–64] years and 61% were female. On admission, Glasgow coma scale was 15 [13–15], World Federation of Neurological Surgeons (WFNS) grading scale was 1 [1–3] and Fisher scale was 4 [2–4]. External ventricular drainage and mechanical ventilation were performed prior to the flight respectively in 42% and 47% of patients. One-year mortality was 16% over the study period. By COX logistic regression analysis, acute hydrocephalus (hazard ratio [HR] 2.34, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.98–5.58) prior to airplane transfer, WFNS grading scale on admission (HR 1.53, 95% CI 1.16–2.02) and age (OR 1.03, 95% 1.00–1.07) were associated with one-year mortality. Conclusion When necessary, transatlantic air transfer of patients with suspected aSAH after management according to local guidelines seems feasible and safe.