ECMO transport from Kenya to India: an AFD success story

In a remarkable case and a true testament to medical innovation and international teamwork, a critically ill patient from Nairobi, Kenya, was successfully transported to Bangalore, India, for advanced extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) treatment. The patient, a 64-year-old man, faced a dire situation. He had developed severe acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) as a complication of a serious Covid-19 infection, which had extensively damaged his lungs. Despite the dedicated efforts of the local medical team in Nairobi, it became clear that only ECMO – a highly advanced lifesupport system – could offer him a chance of survival.

It became clear that only
ECMO – a highly advanced
life-support system – could
offer him a chance of survival

ECMO is used to provide crucial support for patients with severe heart and lung conditions by oxygenating the blood outside the body, essentially taking over the work of the damaged lungs, and requires a specialised team, aircraft and equipment for an aeromedical transport.

As the patient’s condition worsened, the urgency of the situation became undeniable. The local medical team and the patient’s Indian assistance company quickly reached out to a premier medical facility in Bangalore, known for its expertise in ECMO treatment. Given the complexity of the case, the Bangalore team determined that transferring the patient to their facility was the most viable option, especially since managing his care with rotating teams in Nairobi posed significant logistical and licensing challenges.

A case fraught with difficulties

Transporting a patient in such a critical condition was fraught with difficulties. No air ambulance providers in East and Central Africa had the capability to manage ECMO equipment, and options from South Africa or Europe were hindered by logistical constraints. AMREF Flying Doctors emerged as the only organisation capable of executing the complex transfer in this case.

And the team at AMREF Flying Doctors wasted no time. Upon receiving the case, the medical team immediately set out to evaluate the patient’s condition and the specialised ECMO equipment required for the transfer. After in-depth consultations with ECMO specialists in India, the patient’s family, and the Nairobi hospital team, a detailed action plan was formulated. The decision to proceed was made swiftly to ensure the patient received the urgent care he needed.

The transfer itself required meticulous planning, with AMREF Flying Doctors and the ECMO team collaborating closely to ensure that all aspects of the flight were thoroughly prepared. The team faced numerous challenges, including maintaining the patient’s stability throughout the journey, managing blood transfusions, ensuring continuous power for critical equipment, and navigating intricate international border regulations. Upon confirming the arrangements, the patient was prepared for transport and brought to AFD’s Citation Sovereign, which is perfectly equipped for longer ranges and complex repatriations. Whilst challenging to transport, each obstacle was met with expert problem-solving and unwavering commitment, ensuring the patient’s safe arrival in Bangalore.

Overcoming the challenges

Upon reaching Bangalore, the patient was immediately admitted to the intensive care unit and continued ECMO therapy. The advanced medical care provided at the Bangalore facility has given him a new lease of life, infusing hope into the hearts of his family and everyone involved in his care This ECMO transfer is a shining example of what can be achieved through global collaboration amongst experts and high-quality provider.

AMREF Flying Doctors has long been at the forefront of providing critical medical evacuation services across Africa. Known for their exceptional skill and dedication, they offer a range of aeromedical services, including air ambulances equipped for advanced medical procedures.

As the patient’s condition
worsened, the urgency of the
situation became undeniable

With a reputation for handling complex and urgent medical cases, AMREF Flying Doctors is uniquely positioned to manage intricate transfers like this one. Their team of medical professionals and logistical experts works seamlessly to overcome the challenges of crossborder medical transport, ensuring that patients receive the highest standard of care, no matter where they are in the world.