An example of extreme cardiology: chest pain on the high seas and helicoptered medical evacuations

From January 1, 2000, to April 30, 2009, 286 medical evacuations by helicopter were performed, 132 of which were due to traumatological emergencies, and 154 to medical emergencies. Acute chest pain, with 36 missions, was the leading cause of medical evacuation. All evacuated patients were men who were either professional sailors or ferry passengers. The median age was 48 years (range, 26-79). The most common prehospital diagnosis was coronary chest pain in 23 patients (64%), including 11 patients with acute coronary syndrome with ST-segment elevation. Thirty-two patients were airlifted by helicopter. All patients benefited from monitoring, electrocardiogram, peripheral venous catheter, and medical management as soon as the technical conditions allowed it.