Blog | Air ambulance flights | Repatriation from abroad (2024)

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For individuals with a colostomy, air travel can present unique challenges and concerns. In this article, we will explore what a colostomy is, the different types of colostomy, and Medical Air Service ensures a safe and comfortable flight post-surgery.

Important things to know about flying after a colostomy:

• Air travel poses unique challenges for individuals following a colostomy. A colostomy is a surgical procedure which is done to create an opening in the abdomen for waste removal.
• Many individuals can fly safely post-surgery with precautions.
• Some risks of flying after a colostomy are air pressure changes, dehydration and limited restroom access.
• Medical Air Service offers air ambulance, medical escort and bed-to-bed services for patients who have to travel after a colostomy.
• Medical Air Service’s air ambulance service provides specialized care, continuous monitoring, rapid response, and customized transportation.
• Our medical escort service offer immediate assistance, continuous monitoring, psychological support, flexible accommodations, and coordination of care.
• Our Bed-to-Bed service guarantees a smooth patient transfer, offering ground ambulance transportation, peace of mind, fast response times, and flexible solutions.

What is Colostomy?

A colostomy is a surgical procedure in which a part of the colon (large intestine) is diverted to an opening (stoma) created in the abdominal wall. This allows waste to exit the body into a pouch or bag that is attached to the skin, bypassing the rectum and anus. It is often performed to treat conditions such as colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or traumatic injury to the bowel.

There are several types of colostomies, including:

• End colostomy: The end of the colon is brought through the abdominal wall to create the stoma.
• Loop colostomy: A loop of the colon is brought to the surface of the abdomen, with two openings—one for stool and one for mucus.
• Double-barrel colostomy: Two ends of the colon are brought through the abdomen, creating two stomas.

Can you fly after a colostomy?

Yes, many individuals with a colostomy can fly safely after surgery. However, there are important considerations and precautions to take to ensure a comfortable and risk-free flight, and you should wait for the appropriate recovery time before undertaking strenuous activities.

How long after a colostomy can you fly?

It is usually recommended to wait for 6–8 weeks before flying after a colostomy. However, the timing of flying after a colostomy depends on individual healing and recovery. It is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider before making travel plans, especially if you have recently undergone surgery.

Pre-travel considerations - Tips for flying safely after a colostomy:

• Consult your healthcare provider: Before flying, discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current condition.
• Pack supplies: Ensure you have an ample supply of ostomy pouches, wipes, and other supplies needed to manage your colostomy during the flight and throughout your trip.
• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water before and during the flight to prevent dehydration, which can thicken stool and make it harder to manage with a colostomy.
• Choose aisle seats: Opt for an aisle seat to easily access the restroom if needed during the flight. Inform flight attendants discreetly about your condition for assistance if necessary.
• Dress comfortably: Wear loose-fitting clothing to avoid putting pressure on your stoma and to stay comfortable during the flight.

Risks of flying after a colostomy

While flying after a colostomy is generally safe, there are some risks to be aware of, including:

• Changes in air pressure: Fluctuations in cabin pressure during takeoff and landing can affect bowel function and gas production, potentially causing discomfort or leakage from the stoma.
• Dehydration: Airplane cabins are often dry, leading to increased risk of dehydration. Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly.
• Limited access to restrooms: Depending on the duration of the flight and seat position, access to restrooms may be restricted. Plan accordingly and inform flight attendants if you require assistance.
• Anastomotic leak: In the first few weeks or months after surgery, there is a risk of leakage at the surgical site where the ends of the colon were joined. This can necessitate immediate medical intervention.
• Infection risks: There is an increased risk of infections, such as wound infections or urinary tract infections, which may lead to fever and other complications during air travel.
• Blood clots and Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT): The risk of developing blood clots increases with prolonged immobility during flights. This can lead to serious conditions such as pulmonary embolism if not addressed.

Medical transport options for colostomy patients at Medical Air Service

Medical Air Service provides compassionate and efficient patient transport, specializing in air ambulance and commercial medical escort flights for individuals recovering from colostomy surgery.

Air ambulance service for post-colostomy patients requiring critical care

An air ambulance is an aircraft equipped to provide continuous medical care during transport. Serving as flying intensive care units, these ambulance planes feature advanced medical devices, equipment, and a team of healthcare professionals to monitor and treat patients in-flight.

These aircraft carry everything necessary to stabilize and support seriously ill or injured patients, serving as mobile emergency rooms with wings, and offering enhanced medical services that conventional aircraft or ground transportation cannot provide.

Here is how can air ambulances help to transport patients who have had a colostomy:

• Specialized care: Air ambulances are equipped with advanced medical equipment and staffed by trained professionals, offering tailored care for patients who have had colostomies, addressing their unique needs during transit.
• Continuous monitoring: Our dedicated medical team ensure any complications related to the colostomy can be promptly addressed during the flight.
• Rapid response: In the event of emergencies, Medical Air Service’s air ambulances are equipped to provide immediate medical intervention, minimizing risks associated with colostomy-related complications.
• Customized transportation: Air ambulances are outfitted to accommodate patients with medical conditions like colostomies, offering flexible arrangements to ensure comfort and safety throughout the journey.
• Comprehensive support: From pre-flight assessments to in-flight care and post-flight assistance, Medical Air Service ensures a seamless experience, mitigating risks and prioritizing the well-being of patients with colostomies at every step of the journey.

Medical escort service for stable patient who are flying after colostomy

Medical Air Service’s medical escorts, whether physicians, nurses, or paramedics, accompany patients during scheduled flights. Our commercial medical escorts provide invaluable support for patients who have undergone colostomy surgery, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the journey. They offer continuous monitoring, administer medications, and ensure seamless coordination with healthcare providers. Additionally, they provide emotional reassurance, ensuring patients' comfort and peace of mind during travel.

Here’s how medical escorts assist patients after colostomy surgery:

• Immediate assistance: Medical escorts provide quick first-aid treatment using available emergency equipment in case of colostomy-related complications during the flight, ensuring immediate medical assistance.
• Continuous monitoring: Throughout the journey, medical escorts continuously monitor the patient's condition, including the colostomy site, to detect any signs of discomfort or potential issues early on, allowing for prompt intervention and management.
• Psychological support: Patients with colostomies may experience anxiety or stress related to their condition, especially during travel. Medical escorts offer emotional support and reassurance, alleviating concerns and promoting comfort and security.
• Flexible accommodations: Medical escorts adapt to the patient's needs, whether they require specific seating arrangements or assistance with mobility, ensuring comfortable and safe travel.
• Coordination of care: Medical escorts coordinate with healthcare providers and airline staff to ensure seamless communication and assistance throughout the journey, facilitating a smooth travel experience for patients with colostomies.

Our Bed-to-bed patient transport services - for seamless care

Our Bed-to-Bed service facilitates seamless patient transfers from a hospital bed abroad to one at home, ensuring maximum convenience and patient-friendliness throughout the journey.

In addition to air ambulance flights, our comprehensive package includes ground transportation services, coordinating all ambulance journeys. Rest assured, our service guarantees peace of mind and a smooth medical transfer, with swift responses to any in-flight emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

With our extensive experience in international air ambulance flights, Medical Air Service offers customized patient transport, ensuring safety and efficiency at all times.

The benefits of our Bed-to-Bed service for colostomy patients include:

• Comfortable transfer: Patients can be transported from their current hospital bed to a familiar one at home, minimizing discomfort and promoting a smoother transition post-surgery.
• Continuous care: Our service ensures uninterrupted medical care during the journey, allowing for immediate assistance if any colostomy-related complications arise.
• Quick response: In case of emergencies or deteriorating health conditions, our medical team onboard is equipped to react promptly, providing necessary medical interventions.
• Flexible solutions: We accommodate the specific needs of patients with colostomy bags, offering customized transport arrangements and ensuring their safety and well-being throughout the transfer process.

Why choose us to travel after colostomy surgery?

Opting for Medical Air Service for your medical flight provides numerous advantages:

• Comprehensive Support: Our services offer tailored medical care and assistance throughout your journey.
• Skilled Professionals: Our team comprises highly trained medical personnel dedicated to ensuring your safety and well-being during transport.
• Advanced Equipment: Our aircraft are outfitted with state-of-the-art medical equipment to effectively manage diverse medical conditions.
• Flexible Travel Options: Whether it is a short or long-distance medical transport, we provide adaptable transport solutions to meet your specific needs.
• Peace of Mind: With our expertise and unwavering commitment to quality care, you can rest assured that you will receive top-notch assistance throughout your journey.

Contact us now if you need to fly after colostomy!

Our team members and flight coordinators are accessible around the clock to offer guidance and facilitate prompt medical repatriation globally. Contact us 24/7 for free advice and a consultation session to discuss your options.