Hanoi Doctor Respond to In-Flight Facial Paralysis

Photo courtesy of VN Express

A doctor from Bach Mai Hospital in Hanoi, Vietnam provided emergency medical assistance to a foreign passenger on a Vietnam Airlines flight from Hanoi to Paris. The passenger suffered facial paralysis four hours into the journey, exhibiting ear pain and difficulty speaking. Prof. Mai Duy Ton, who was on board, diagnosed the condition as peripheral facial nerve paralysis and administered corticosteroids to stabilize the passenger.

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The cabin crew initially considered diverting the flight, but Prof. Ton's intervention allowed them to continue to the scheduled destination. Upon arrival at Charles de Gaulle Airport in Paris, the patient's condition had improved, demonstrating the effectiveness of the in-flight medical response. Prof. Ton's quick action underscores the critical role of healthcare professionals in emergency situations beyond hospital settings.

Associate Professor Dao Xuan Co praised Ton for his expertise and ethical dedication. This episode also underscores the hospital's commitment to staffing medical personnel equipped to act as healthcare ambassadors globally. Peripheral facial nerve paralysis can occur due to sudden temperature changes, causing symptoms like facial asymmetry and drooping of the mouth.

Medical experts caution that even during warmer months, sudden shifts between outdoor heat and air-conditioned environments may increase risk. Consequently, Ton’s actions highlight the importance of immediate medical assessment and treatment during such emergencies.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · VN Express · 06 Mar 2026