EZ-IO(®) intraosseous device implementation in German Helicopter Emergency Medical Service.

Background: Intraosseous access (IO) is a rapid and safe alternative when peripheral venous access is difficult. Our aim was to summarize the first three years experience with the use of a semi-automatic IO device (EZ-IO(®)) in German Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS).

Methods: Included were all patients during study period (January 2009-December 2011) requiring an IO access performed by HEMS team.

[Intraosseous infusion in the German Air Rescue Service : Guideline recommendations versus mission reality].

Background: In emergency medicine intraosseous access (IOA) has been established as an alternative to conventional intravenous access. Originally the use of IOA was strictly limited to children up to 6 years of age and to adults for cardiopulmonary resuscitation. These limitations have been relaxed and the indications for IOA have been expanded.