Bispectral Index Measurements Are Not Degraded During Aeromedical Evacuations

Anesth Analg. 2018 Jan;126(1):170-172. doi: 10.1213/ANE.0000000000002301.

Abstract

For a decade, depth of anesthesia monitoring has become a reality in the operating room. It provides valuable help for managing anesthesia, especially for unstable patients. This might be particularly relevant during aeromedical evacuation. In this study, we aimed to assess the validity of the bispectral index (BIS) during long-range patient transportation aboard fixed-wing aircraft. BIS was recorded in 30 patients, 25 under anesthesia and 5 awake, during aeromedical evacuations performed by the French Air Force. BIS index was available and analyzable (signal quality index above 50%) more than 90% of time. Despite potential pitfalls related to mechanical or electrical interference, BIS monitor can be reliably used to monitor depth of anesthesia during individual strategic aeromedical evacuations.

Publication types

  • Observational Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Aircraft*
  • Consciousness Monitors / standards*
  • Electroencephalography / methods*
  • Electroencephalography / standards*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Pilot Projects
  • Prospective Studies
  • Transportation of Patients / methods*
  • Transportation of Patients / standards*
  • Young Adult