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Medical Treatments, Procedures and Investigations

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OVERVIEW

There is a wide range of medical treatments and investigations that may affect the ability to fly safely. If there are side effects or complications following the treatment/investigation, then the recommended stand-down period should be extended.

The recommended no-flying/no-controlling time relates to treatment or investigation only. The medical matter or reason for the procedure must be considered separately – refer to your DAME or CASA.

These recommendations apply to all medical certificate class holders.

Recommended minimum stand-down times

The times stated below assume the certificate holder is feeling well afterwards and the treatment/procedure/investigation is uncomplicated.

If the certificate holder is unwell or there are medical complications, then you must refer to your DAME or CASA.

Treatment/Investigation Recommended minimum no-flying / no-controlling Comments/Reasons
Routine blood tests No restriction on flying/controlling No acute effect on circulating blood volume
Local anaesthetics (including dental) 12 hours Pain, distraction, delayed hypersensitivity
Vaccinations 12 hours Delayed hypersensitivity reactions
Allergy desensitisation injections 24 hours Delayed hypersensitivity reactions
Blood & plasma donation /venesection 24 hours Increased risk of hypoxia and hypotension
Steroid joint injection 24 hours Underlying condition must be stable/resolved
Sedation (gastroscopy, colonoscopy, in-chair dental procedures) 24 hours Cognitive effects of medications used
General anaesthetic
(including spinal or epidural)
48 hours (+ recovery from type of surgery) Cognitive effects of medications used

Disclaimer

The Clinical Practice Guideline is provided by way of guidance only and subject to the Clinical practice guidelines disclaimer