Lifesaving Race Against Time: A Green Corridor Miracle From Kerala

KOZHIKODE:
In a breathtaking display of medical prowess and logistical brilliance, Meitra Hospital, Kozhikode, scripted a real-life medical drama, successfully executing a long-distance ECMO (Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation) retrieval, transporting a critically ill patient 220 kilometers to receive life-saving treatment.

A 43-year-old woman, battling severe Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) caused by Influenza Viral Pneumonia, was teetering on the edge of life. She urgently required ECMO support, a complex life-support system that oxygenates blood outside the body.

A highly skilled team from Meitra Hospital, led by Dr. Mahesh B.S., Director of Critical Care Medicine, undertook a bold mission to save her life. The patient was placed on Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation (ECMO) in Mangalore and safely transferred to Kozhikode while continuing ECMO and ventilator support. Assisting Dr. Mahesh in this critical endeavor were Dr. Shabeer Ali (Intensivist), Arun A (Senior Perfusionist), Syam Prasad K P (Senior Perfusionist), Akash Reji (Assistant Manager), and Linu Scaria (Senior Staff Nurse).

The road to recovery was fraught with challenges. Transporting a critically ill patient over such a long distance while ensuring her stability was a daunting task. The team meticulously planned every step, from medical preparations to logistics. A crucial role was played by the Kerala Police Department, which established a green corridor, a route cleared of traffic, to expedite the ambulance’s journey. This strategic move, combined with the relentless efforts of the ambulance drivers, ensured that every precious minute counted.

The patient was successfully cannulated and initiated on VV-ECMO at Indiana Hospital, Mangalore, before being transferred to Meitra Hospital. The journey was a high-stakes endeavor, requiring constant vigilance from the medical team. They meticulously monitored the patient’s condition, managed the oxygen supply, and navigated the challenging road conditions to ensure a safe and timely transfer. Upon reaching Meitra Hospital, the patient underwent further treatment, including prone ventilation and escalated antibiotic therapy. After five days on ECMO, her lung function improved significantly, and she was gradually weaned off the life-support system. Following two weeks of intensive care, the patient demonstrated significant improvement and was successfully weaned off both ECMO and ventilator support. The patient was eventually discharged home, marking an important milestone in their recovery journey. This successful outcome is a testament to the expertise, dedication, and collaborative efforts of the healthcare team involved.

This first in Kerala, extraordinary ‘ Green Corridor ECMO’ is a testament to the unwavering dedication and expertise of the healthcare professionals at Meitra Hospital, the selfless efforts of the Kerala Police, and the skilled ambulance drivers who played a vital role in this life-saving mission. It underscores the importance of advanced medical technologies, timely interventions, and efficient logistical support in saving lives.