Helicopter MEDEVAC in the Korean War: Did it Matter?

Background Due to M*A*S*H and other popular portrayals, helicopter evacuation of casualties has been closely linked to the Korean War. We sought to investigate their role in military medicine during this conflict. Materials and Methods This study incorporated a thorough review of the original source documents dating to the Korean War that are housed in the National Archives, the Military History Institute, and other repositories. Results Medical evacuation helicopters entered the war late, after the United Nations forces had suffered the majority of their casualties. There were relatively few helicopters in the country, and a combination of mechanical and personnel issues kept many grounded. Technological constraints limited their efficacy. Military policy forbade rescues from the front lines, and inter-hospital transfers comprised a significant percentage of their missions. Conclusions Helicopters did not appreciably decrease the average time from wounding to surgical care, nor did they evacuate a statistically significant number of casualties, and ultimately they had minimal effect on military medicine. However, the war did provide helicopters the opportunity to prove themselves conceptually, leading to their widespread usage in Vietnam, in later conflicts, and ultimately in civilian health care systems. Study Type Historical Reflection Level of Evidence Not applicable. Justin Bar, DUMC 3443, Durham, NC 27710. Fax: 919-681-8679. Cell: 314-629-3174 Conflicts of Interest: None. Funding: None. Acknowledgements: None. This material has not been presented before in any forum. © 2019 Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, Inc.

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