Severe Pulmonary Embolism Associated with Air Travel

This study estimated the risk of severe pulmonary embolism as a function of the distance flown. Air travel is considered a risk factor for pulmonary embolism and has been termed “economy-class syndrome.” 1 , 2 Immobility, aggravated by the limited space in economy class, is assumed to be responsible for this risk. Whereas the number of air passengers continues to increase, the relation between pulmonary embolism and the distance traveled by air has not yet been sufficiently investigated. 3 , 4 Roughly 100 cases of pulmonary embolism occurring after air travel have been reported during the past three decades. 1 , 2 , 5 – 23 Most of these reports were based on small numbers of patients, included cases of both deep venous thrombosis . . .