PUNE: Over the last two years, Sahyadri Hospitals in Pune have observed a troubling trend: an increase in cases of pulmonary embolism (PE) associated with long-haul international travel. Recently, a 42-year-old patient was diagnosed with PE after presenting symptoms of chest discomfort and breathlessness, exacerbated by a history of recent international flights.

Dr. Kaurabhi Zade, Interventional Radiologist at Sahyadri Hospitals, Pune, emphasized the heightened risks associated with prolonged immobility during flights. “Flights longer than four hours can triple the risk of blood clotting, primarily due to cramped seating, dehydration, and lower cabin oxygen levels,” Dr. Zade explained. This insight comes after the successful treatment of 17 cases of PE through mechanical thrombectomy at the hospital—a procedure chosen for its efficacy when traditional clot-dissolving medications are unsuitable.

One of the recent research further underscores these observations. A study titled “Travel-Associated Venous Thromboembolism” highlights a mild to moderate association between VTE and the length of travel, with the risk increasing by 26% for every additional 2 hours of air travel starting after 4 hours. The study also noted the effectiveness of low-risk prophylactic measures like graduated compression stockings in preventing VTE, particularly during flights.

The patients, ranging from 21 to 72 years old, displayed varied health backgrounds, indicating that younger populations are increasingly at risk. “Pulmonary embolism is a high mortality condition, ranking as the third most common cause of cardiovascular death. Immediate treatment is crucial,” Dr. Zade added.

Dr. Kapil Borawake, the leader of the Pulmonary Embolism Response Team (PERT) at Sahyadri Hospitals, Pune, highlighted preventive measures, especially with the holiday season in full swing. “As people increasingly embark on long air travels, it’s crucial to be mindful of dos and don’ts to prevent health risks such as pulmonary embolism. Simple actions like taking brisk walks every half-hour, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol, which can further dehydrate you, are essential,” Dr. Borawake advised.

Mechanical thrombectomy involves physically removing blood clots from the patient’s arteries, an approach that was necessary when clot burdens were high or when initial medical treatments failed. Despite the procedure’s challenges, such as managing complications from massive clots, the long-term outcomes have been promising, with significant survival benefits.

The public should be aware of the risks posed by extended periods of travel. This ongoing issue of travel-associated PE stresses the importance of vigilance and prompt medical intervention, reinforcing Sahyadri Hospitals’ commitment to leading-edge cardiovascular care.

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