Providing advanced care in pediatric critical situations often requires exceptional coordination and expertise. This case study highlights how MedAssis facilitated the life-saving transfer of a seven-month-old infant from Israel to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, overcoming medical and logistical challenges to provide the highest level of care.

Patient Background

The infant, born prematurely at 34 weeks via emergency C-section, faced a difficult start to life. Diagnosed with small bowel atresia, he underwent three major surgeries within his first seven months. His most recent medical crisis involved a double volvulus of the small intestine, resulting in significant bowel resections and a fragile post-surgical state with an open abdomen.

At this critical stage, the child was intubated, ventilated, and dependent on continuous sedation. His condition required specialized care unavailable locally, leading to the decision to transfer him to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital, a globally recognized pediatric center.

The Role of MedAssis

MedAssis was entrusted with organizing the complex transfer. With experience in managing high-risk cases, the team developed a comprehensive plan to ensure the infant’s safety during the journey.

Transfer Process

1. Assembling the Medical Team
   A Pediatric Critical Care Unit (PICU) Physician, PICU Nurse, and Critical Care Paramedic were assigned to the case. Together, they transformed the flight into a mobile intensive care unit (ICU), equipped to handle the infant’s delicate condition.
2. Managing the Flight to New York
   The first leg of the transfer was a commercial flight. MedAssis ensured constant monitoring and care:

• Heart Rate: Maintained at 100–112 bpm
• Blood Pressure: Stable at approximately 75/40 mmHg
• Oxygen Saturation: 100% with supplemental oxygen

Ventilator settings were carefully adjusted, and regular i-STAT blood analyses confirmed stability.

3. Transition to Private Air Ambulance
   Upon landing in New York, the team seamlessly transferred the patient to a private air ambulance for the final leg to Cincinnati. Throughout the journey, the medical team maintained a high level of vigilance, monitoring critical parameters and providing continuous care.

Key Challenges and Solutions

Medical Stability
Ensuring the patient’s vital signs remained stable during the transfer required precise adjustments to ventilator settings and continuous monitoring of blood gases and electrolytes.

Logistical Coordination
MedAssis leveraged its strong relationships with commercial airlines to secure rapid approvals for the medical flight (MEDIF) and coordinated all aspects of the journey, including transitions between aircraft.

Outcome

The infant was safely admitted to the PICU at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in stable condition. The seamless transfer showcased the expertise and dedication of the MedAssis team.

Reflections on Expertise and Care

Dr. Amir Zilkha, Pediatric Critical Care Physician, emphasized the importance of MedAssis’s rigorous planning and oversight.
“Every case undergoes meticulous review by our Medical Director and operational team to ensure patient safety. This process allows us to manage even the most complex transfers with confidence.”

The success of this mission highlights MedAssis’s commitment to delivering life-saving care, combining medical expertise with careful planning and compassion.

Bringing Hope to Critical Cases

MedAssis continues to provide solutions for challenging medical situations, helping patients and families navigate the most difficult moments with care and professionalism.