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Strapazzon G, Taboni A, Dietrichs ES, Luks AM, Brugger H. Avalanche burial pathophysiology - a unique combination of hypoxia, hypercapnia and hypothermia. J Physiol 2024. [PMID: 39073871 DOI: 10.1113/jp284607] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/30/2024] Open
Abstract
For often unclear reasons, the survival times of critically buried avalanche victims vary widely from minutes to hours. Individuals can survive and sustain organ function if they can breathe under the snow and maintain sufficient delivery of oxygen and efflux of carbon dioxide. We review the physiological responses of humans to critical avalanche burial, a model which shares similarities and differences with apnoea and accidental hypothermia. Within a few minutes of burial, an avalanche victim is exposed to hypoxaemia and hypercapnia, which have important effects on the respiratory and cardiovascular systems and pose a major threat to the central nervous system. As burial time increases, an avalanche victim also develops hypothermia. Despite progressively reduced metabolism, reduced oxygen and increased carbon dioxide tensions may exacerbate the pathophysiological consequences of hypothermia. Hypercapnia seems to be the main cause of cardiovascular instability, which, in turn, is the major reason for reduced cerebral oxygenation despite reductions in cerebral metabolic activity caused by hypothermia. 'Triple H syndrome' refers to the interaction of hypoxia, hypercapnia and hypothermia in a buried avalanche victim. Future studies should investigate how the respiratory gases entrapped in the porous snow structure influence the physiological responses of buried individuals and how haemoconcentration, blood viscosity and cell deformability affect blood flow and oxygen delivery. Attention should also be devoted to identifying strategies to prolong avalanche survival by either mitigating hypoxia and hypercapnia or reducing core temperature so that neuroprotection occurs before the onset of cerebral hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- Department of Medicine - DIMEM, University of Padova, Padova, Italy
| | - Anna Taboni
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | | | - Andrew M Luks
- Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
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Van Tilburg C, Paal P, Strapazzon G, Grissom CK, Haegeli P, Hölzl N, McIntosh S, Radwin M, Smith WWR, Thomas S, Tremper B, Weber D, Wheeler AR, Zafren K, Brugger H. Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Avalanche and Nonavalanche Snow Burial Accidents: 2024 Update. Wilderness Environ Med 2024; 35:20S-44S. [PMID: 37945433 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2023.05.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
To provide guidance to the general public, clinicians, and avalanche professionals about best practices, the Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel to revise the evidence-based guidelines for the prevention, rescue, and resuscitation of avalanche and nonavalanche snow burial victims. The original panel authored the Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Avalanche and Nonavalanche Snow Burial Accidents in 2017. A second panel was convened to update these guidelines and make recommendations based on quality of supporting evidence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Van Tilburg
- Occupational Medicine, Mountain Clinic, and Emergency Medicine, Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital, Hood River, OR
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
| | - Peter Paal
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, St. John of God Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, University Hospital Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Colin K Grissom
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care, Intermountain Medical Center, Murray, UT
| | | | - Natalie Hölzl
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- German Association of Mountain and Expedition Medicine, Munich, Germany
| | - Scott McIntosh
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
| | | | - William Will R Smith
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Johns Health, Jackson, WY
- University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA
| | - Stephanie Thomas
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
| | | | - David Weber
- Intermountain Life Flight, Salt Lake City, UT
| | - Albert R Wheeler
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
- Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Johns Health, Jackson, WY
| | - Ken Zafren
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Himalayan Rescue Association, Kathmandu, Nepal
- Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA
| | - Hermann Brugger
- International Commission for Alpine Rescue
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, University Hospital Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
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Strapazzon G, Rauch S, Malacrida S, Dal Cappello T, Governo E, Catuzzo B, Mrakic-Sposta S, Urgesi M, Falla M, Cavoretto G, Visetti E, Giardini G, Brugger H, Prato F. Comparative Effectiveness of an Artificial Air Pocket Device to Delay Asphyxiation in Supine Individuals Critically Buried in Avalanche Debris. JAMA Netw Open 2023; 6:e2313376. [PMID: 37184835 DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2023.13376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Importance Approximately 70% of individuals critically buried in avalanche debris die within 35 minutes as a result of asphyxial cardiac arrest. An artificial air-pocket device (AAPD) that separates inhaled air from exhaled air may delay the onset of severe hypoxemia and eventual asphyxia during snow burial. Objective To investigate the efficacy of a new AAPD during snow burial in a supine position. Design, Setting, and Participants This comparative effectiveness trial was performed in winter 2016 with data analysis in November 2016 and November 2022. Each trial used a simulated critical avalanche burial scenario, in which a trough was dug in a snow pile and an additional air pocket of 0.5 L volume was punched into the lateral wall for each control trial. All participants were buried in a supine position. Trials could be voluntarily terminated at any time, with a maximum length of 60 minutes; trials were automatically terminated if the participant's peripheral oxygen saturation (Spo2) dropped to less than 84%. Exposures Each participant conducted 2 trials, one in which they breathed into the AAPD (intervention trial) and the other in which they breathed into the prepared air pocket (control trial). Main Outcomes and Measures Measurements included Spo2, cerebral oxygenation, ventilatory parameters, respiratory gas concentrations, and visual-analogue scales. Kaplan-Meier survival curves and rank test for matched survival data were used to analyze the total burial time in each trial. Results A total of 13 volunteers (9 men; mean [SD] age, 33 [8] years) were exposed to the intervention and control trials. Intervention trials were terminated less often (2 of 13 trials) as a result of hypoxemia than control trials (11 of 12 trials). Similarly, survival curves showed a longer duration of burial in the intervention compared with the control trials for the time to reach an Spo2 less than 84% (rank test for matched survival data: P = .003). The intervention trials, compared with the control trials, also had slower rates of decrease in fraction of inspired oxygen (mean [SD] rate, -0.8 [0.4] %/min vs -2.2 [1.2] %/min) and of increase in fraction of inspired carbon dioxide (mean [SD] rate, 0.5 [0.3] %/min vs 1.4 [0.6] %/min) and expired ventilation per minute (mean [SD] rate, 0.5 [1.0] L/min2 vs 3.9 [2.6] L/min2). Conclusions and Relevance This comparative effectiveness trial found that the new AAPD was associated with delaying the development of hypoxemia and hypercapnia in supine participants in a critical burial scenario. Use of the AAPD may allow a longer burial time before asphyxial cardiac arrest, which might allow longer times for successful rescue by companions or by prehospital emergency medical services.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico, Milano, Italy
| | - Simon Rauch
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, F. Tappeiner Hospital, Merano, Italy
| | - Sandro Malacrida
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Tomas Dal Cappello
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Enrica Governo
- Mountain Medicine Center, Azienda Sanitaria Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
| | - Bruna Catuzzo
- Mountain Medicine Center, Azienda Sanitaria Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
| | | | - Margherita Urgesi
- Mountain Medicine Center, Azienda Sanitaria Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
| | - Marika Falla
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- Center for Mind/Brain Sciences, University of Trento, Rovereto, Italy
| | | | - Enrico Visetti
- Mountain Medicine Center, Azienda Sanitaria Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Gruppo Policlinico di Monza, Monza, Italy
| | - Guido Giardini
- Mountain Medicine Center, Azienda Sanitaria Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Federico Prato
- Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico, Milano, Italy
- Mountain Medicine Center, Azienda Sanitaria Valle d'Aosta, Aosta, Italy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria Maggiore della Carità, Novara, Italy
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Pasquier M, Strapazzon G, Kottmann A, Paal P, Zafren K, Oshiro K, Artoni C, Van Tilburg C, Sheets A, Ellerton J, McLaughlin K, Gordon L, Martin RW, Jacob M, Musi M, Blancher M, Jaques C, Brugger H. On-site treatment of avalanche victims: Scoping review and 2023 recommendations of the international commission for mountain emergency medicine (ICAR MedCom). Resuscitation 2023; 184:109708. [PMID: 36709825 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2023.109708] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2022] [Revised: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 01/18/2023] [Indexed: 01/27/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom) developed updated recommendations for the management of avalanche victims. METHODS ICAR MedCom created Population Intervention Comparator Outcome (PICO) questions and conducted a scoping review of the literature. We evaluated and graded the evidence using the American College of Chest Physicians system. RESULTS We included 120 studies including original data in the qualitative synthesis. There were 45 retrospective studies (38%), 44 case reports or case series (37%), and 18 prospective studies on volunteers (15%). The main cause of death from avalanche burial was asphyxia (range of all studies 65-100%). Trauma was the second most common cause of death (5-29%). Hypothermia accounted for few deaths (0-4%). CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS For a victim with a burial time ≤ 60 minutes without signs of life, presume asphyxia and provide rescue breaths as soon as possible, regardless of airway patency. For a victim with a burial time > 60 minutes, no signs of life but a patent airway or airway with unknown patency, presume that a primary hypothermic CA has occurred and initiate cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) unless temperature can be measured to rule out hypothermic cardiac arrest. For a victim buried > 60 minutes without signs of life and with an obstructed airway, if core temperature cannot be measured, rescuers can presume asphyxia-induced CA, and should not initiate CPR. If core temperature can be measured, for a victim without signs of life, with a patent airway, and with a core temperature < 30 °C attempt resuscitation, regardless of burial duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Pasquier
- Emergency Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - G Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy; Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - A Kottmann
- Swiss Air Ambulance - Rega, Zurich Airport, Switzerland; Emergency Department, Lausanne University Hospital, Lausanne, Switzerland; Department of Anaesthesiology and Pain Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - P Paal
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, St. John of God Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg, Austria; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - K Zafren
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alaska Native Medical Center Anchorage, Alaska, USA; Department of Emergency Medicine Stanford University Medical Center Stanford, CA, USA; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - K Oshiro
- Cardiovascular Department, Mountain Medicine, Research, & Survey Division, Hokkaido Ohno Memorial Hospital, Hokkaido, Japan; Department of Internal Medicine, Nihon University School of Medicine, Tokyo, Japan; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - C Artoni
- ICAR Avalanche Rescue Commission, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - C Van Tilburg
- Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital, Hood River, Oregon, USA; Mountain Rescue Association, USA; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - A Sheets
- Emergency Department, Boulder Community Health, Boulder, CO, USA; University of Colorado Wilderness and Environmental Medicine Fellowship Faculty, Aurora, CO, USA; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - J Ellerton
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - K McLaughlin
- Canmore Hospital, Alberta, Canada; University of Calgary, Canada; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - L Gordon
- Department of Anaesthesia, University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay Trust, Lancaster, England; Langdale Ambleside Mountain Rescue Team, England; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland
| | - R W Martin
- Mountain Rescue Association, USA; ICAR Avalanche Rescue Commission, Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - M Jacob
- Bavarian Mountain Rescue Service, Bad Tölz, Germany; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - M Musi
- Emergency Department, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - M Blancher
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Grenoble Alps Grenoble, France; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - C Jaques
- Lausanne University Medical Library, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - H Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy; Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom), Zurich, Switzerland.
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Sud S. Avalung: A saviour in avalanche. Med J Armed Forces India 2022; 78:S335-S336. [PMID: 36147393 PMCID: PMC9485737 DOI: 10.1016/j.mjafi.2020.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Accepted: 04/23/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Saurabh Sud
- Classified Specialist (Anaesthesia & Critical Care), 403 Field Hospital, C/O 56 APO, India
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Pulse Oximeter Performance during Rapid Desaturation. SENSORS 2022; 22:s22114236. [PMID: 35684858 PMCID: PMC9185462 DOI: 10.3390/s22114236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2022] [Revised: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 05/30/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The reliability of pulse oximetry is crucial, especially in cases of rapid changes in body oxygenation. In order to evaluate the performance of pulse oximeters during rapidly developing short periods of concurrent hypoxemia and hypercapnia, 13 healthy volunteers underwent 3 breathing phases during outdoor experiments (39 phases in total), monitored simultaneously by five different pulse oximeters. A significant incongruity in values displayed by the tested pulse oximeters was observed, even when the accuracy declared by the manufacturers were considered. In 28.2% of breathing phases, the five used devices did not show any congruent values. The longest uninterrupted congruent period formed 74.4% of total recorded time. Moreover, the congruent periods were rarely observed during the critical desaturation phase of the experiment. The time difference between the moments when the first and the last pulse oximeter showed the typical study endpoint values of SpO2 85% and 75% was 32.1 ± 23.6 s and 24.7 ± 19.3 s, respectively. These results suggest that SpO2 might not be a reliable parameter as a study endpoint, or more importantly as a safety limit in outdoor experiments. In the design of future studies, more parameters and continuous clinical assessment should be included.
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Perlite is a suitable model material for experiments investigating breathing in high density snow. Sci Rep 2022; 12:2070. [PMID: 35136116 PMCID: PMC8827056 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-022-06015-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2021] [Accepted: 01/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Outdoor breathing trials with simulated avalanche snow are fundamental for the research of the gas exchange under avalanche snow, which supports the development of the international resuscitation guidelines. However, these studies have to face numerous problems, including unstable weather and variable snow properties. This pilot study examines a mineral material perlite as a potential snow model for studies of ventilation and gas exchange parameters. Thirteen male subjects underwent three breathing phases—into snow, wet perlite and dry perlite. The resulting trends of gas exchange parameters in all tested materials were similar and when there was a significant difference observed, the trends in the parameters for high density snow used in the study lay in between the trends in dry and wet perlite. These findings, together with its stability and accessibility year-round, make perlite a potential avalanche snow model material. Perlite seems suitable especially for simulation and preparation of breathing trials assessing gas exchange under avalanche snow, and potentially for testing of new avalanche safety equipment before their validation in real snow. The study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov on January 22, 2018; the registration number is NCT03413878.
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Woyke S, Brugger H, Ströhle M, Haller T, Gatterer H, Dal Cappello T, Strapazzon G. Effects of Carbon Dioxide and Temperature on the Oxygen-Hemoglobin Dissociation Curve of Human Blood: Implications for Avalanche Victims. Front Med (Lausanne) 2022; 8:808025. [PMID: 35198571 PMCID: PMC8859098 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.808025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/20/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Completely avalanche-buried patients are frequently exposed to a combination of hypoxia and hypercapnia with a risk of normothermic cardiac arrest. Patients with a long burial time and an air pocket are exposed to a combination of hypoxia, hypercapnia, and hypothermia which may lead to the development of the “triple H syndrome”. This specific combination has several pathophysiological implications, particularly on the cardiovascular system and oxygen transport (oxygen supply and oxygen consumption). To examine the effects on hemoglobin oxygen affinity, we investigated venous blood samples from 15 female and 15 male healthy subjects. In a factorial design of four different carbon dioxide partial pressure (PCO2) levels (20, 40, 60, and 80 mmHg) and five different temperature levels (13.7°C, 23°C, 30°C, 37°C, and 42°C), 30 unbuffered whole blood samples were analyzed in a newly developed in vitro method for high-throughput oxygen dissociation curve (ODC) measurements. P50s, Hill coefficients, CO2-Bohr coefficients, and temperature coefficients were analyzed using a linear mixed model (LMM). Mean P50 at baseline (37°C, 40 mmHg PCO2) was 27.1 ± 2.6 mmHg. Both CO2-Bohr (p < 0.001) and temperature coefficients (p < 0.001) had a significant effect on P50. The absolute CO2 effect was still pronounced at normothermic and febrile temperatures, whereas at low temperatures, the relative CO2 effect (expressed by CO2-Bohr coefficient; p < 0.001, interaction) was increased. The larger impact of PCO2 on oxygen affinity at low temperature may be caused by the competition of 2,3-BPG with PCO2 and the exothermic binding characteristic of 2,3-BPG. In a model of an avalanche burial, based on published data of CO2 levels and cooling rates, we calculated the resulting P50 for this specific condition based on the here-reported PCO2 and temperature effect on ODC. Depending on the degree of hypercapnia and hypothermia, a potentially beneficial increase in hemoglobin oxygen affinity in the hypoxic condition might ensue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simon Woyke
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Mathias Ströhle
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- *Correspondence: Mathias Ströhle
| | - Thomas Haller
- Institute of Physiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hannes Gatterer
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Tomas Dal Cappello
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
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Prevention of Hypothermia in the Aftermath of Natural Disasters in Areas at Risk of Avalanches, Earthquakes, Tsunamis and Floods. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031098. [PMID: 35162119 PMCID: PMC8834683 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Revised: 01/13/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
Throughout history, accidental hypothermia has accompanied natural disasters in cold, temperate, and even subtropical regions. We conducted a non-systematic review of the causes and means of preventing accidental hypothermia after natural disasters caused by avalanches, earthquakes, tsunamis, and floods. Before a disaster occurs, preventive measures are required, such as accurate disaster risk analysis for given areas, hazard mapping and warning, protecting existing structures within hazard zones to the greatest extent possible, building structures outside hazard zones, and organising rapid and effective rescue. After the event, post hoc analyses of failures, and implementation of corrective actions will reduce the risk of accidental hypothermia in future disasters.
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On-Site Medical Management of Avalanche Victims-A Narrative Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph181910234. [PMID: 34639535 PMCID: PMC8507645 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/19/2021] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Avalanche accidents are common in mountain regions and approximately 100 fatalities are counted in Europe each year. The average mortality rate is about 25% and survival chances are mainly determined by the degree and duration of avalanche burial, the patency of the airway, the presence of an air pocket, snow characteristics, and the severity of traumatic injuries. The most common cause of death in completely buried avalanche victims is asphyxia followed by trauma. Hypothermia accounts for a minority of deaths; however, hypothermic cardiac arrest has a favorable prognosis and prolonged resuscitation and extracorporeal rewarming are indicated. In this article, we give an overview on the pathophysiology and on-site management of avalanche victims.
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Van Tilburg C. Should Airbag Backpacks Be Standard Avalanche Safety Equipment? Wilderness Environ Med 2021; 32:495-498. [PMID: 34366243 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2021.05.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Avalanche airbag backpacks have been shown to be effective at reducing avalanche mortality. However, they are yet to be considered standard avalanche safety equipment, which has long consisted of a transceiver, a shovel, and a probe. This is despite data showing that airbags reduce mortality by decreasing the likelihood of burial. In addition, airbags probably lessen trauma and possibly delay asphyxia. Moreover, the literature suggests airbags reduce mortality at a rate similar to transceivers. For those who work, volunteer, and recreate in avalanche terrain, airbags should be considered standard safety equipment. However, multiple barriers exist for universal adoption, including cost, size, weight, training burden, availability, risk tolerance, and lack of community support and recommendations from professional societies and associations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Van Tilburg
- Mountain Clinic, Occupational and Travel Medicine, and Emergency Department, Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital, Hood River, Oregon; Crag Rats Mountain Rescue, Portland Mountain Rescue, Clackamas County Search and Rescue, Pacific Northwest Search and Rescue, Hood River, Oregon.
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12
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Eidenbenz D, Techel F, Kottmann A, Rousson V, Carron PN, Albrecht R, Pasquier M. Survival probability in avalanche victims with long burial (≥60 min): A retrospective study. Resuscitation 2021; 166:93-100. [PMID: 34107337 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2021.05.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2021] [Revised: 05/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The survival of completely buried victims in an avalanche mainly depends on burial duration. Knowledge is limited about survival probability after 60 min of complete burial. AIM We aimed to study the survival probability and prehospital characteristics of avalanche victims with long burial durations. METHODS We retrospectively included all completely buried avalanche victims with a burial duration of ≥60 min between 1997 and 2018 in Switzerland. Data were extracted from the registry of the Swiss Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research and the prehospital medical records of the physician-staffed helicopter emergency medical services. Avalanche victims buried for ≥24 h or with an unknown survival status were excluded. Survival probability was estimated by using the non-parametric Ayer-Turnbull method and logistic regression. The primary outcome was survival probability. RESULTS We identified 140 avalanche victims with a burial duration of ≥60 min, of whom 27 (19%) survived. Survival probability shows a slight decrease with increasing burial duration (23% after 60 min, to <6% after 1400 min, p = 0.13). Burial depth was deeper for those who died (100 cm vs 70 cm, p = 0.008). None of the survivors sustained CA during the prehospital phase. CONCLUSIONS The overall survival rate of 19% for completely buried avalanche victims with a long burial duration illustrates the importance of continuing rescue efforts. Avalanche victims in CA after long burial duration without obstructed airway, frozen body or obvious lethal trauma should be considered to be in hypothermic CA, with initiation of cardiopulmonary resuscitation and an evaluation for rewarming with extracorporeal life support.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Eidenbenz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 21, BH 09, CHUV, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Frank Techel
- WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Flüelastrasse 11, 7260 Davos-Dorf, Switzerland.
| | - Alexandre Kottmann
- Swiss Air Ambulance - Rega and Emergency Department, Lausanne University Hospital, P.O. Box 1414, 8058 Zürich Airport, Switzerland.
| | - Valentin Rousson
- Center for Primary Care and Public Health (Unisanté), route de Berne 113, 1010 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Pierre-Nicolas Carron
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 21, BH 09, CHUV, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Roland Albrecht
- Swiss Air Ambulance - Rega, P.O. Box 1414, 8058 Zürich Airport, Switzerland.
| | - Mathieu Pasquier
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, Rue du Bugnon 21, BH 09, CHUV, 1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
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13
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Strapazzon G, Gatterer H, Falla M, Dal Cappello T, Malacrida S, Turner R, Schenk K, Paal P, Falk M, Schweizer J, Brugger H. Hypoxia and hypercapnia effects on cerebral oxygen saturation in avalanche burial: A pilot human experimental study. Resuscitation 2020; 158:175-182. [PMID: 33249253 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2020.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2020] [Revised: 11/04/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A sufficient supply of oxygen is crucial to avoid hypoxic cardiac arrest and brain damage within 30 min in completely-buried avalanche victims. Snow density influences levels of hypoxia and hypercapnia. The goal of this study was to investigate the effects of hypoxia and hypercapnia on cerebral oxygenation (ScO2) in humans breathing into an artificial air pocket. METHODS Each subject breathed into a closed system (air-tight face mask - plastic tube - snow air-pocket of 4 L) up to 30 min. Each subject performed three tests in different snow densities. ScO2 was measured by a near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) device. Measurements included peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2), end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2), air pocket gases and blood gases. Snow density was assessed via standard methods and micro-computed tomography. Based on predetermined criteria, tests were classified based on whether they were terminated before 30 min and the reason for termination. The categories were: completed tests (30 min), tests terminated before 30 min when SpO2 dropped to ≤75% and tests that were terminated before 30 min by requests of the subjects. General linear models were used to compare termination groups for changes in ScO2, ETCO2, SpO2 and air pocket gases, and a multivariate analysis was used to detect factor independent effects on ScO2. RESULTS ScO2 was decreased in the group in which the tests were terminated for SpO2 ≤ 75% caused by a decrease in oxygen supply in high snow densities. In the completed tests, an increase in ScO2 occurred despite decreased oxygen supply and decreased carbon dioxide removal. CONCLUSIONS Our data show that ScO2 determined by NIRS was not always impaired in humans breathing into an artificial air pocket despite decreased oxygen supply and decreased carbon dioxide removal. This may indicate that in medium to low snow densities brain oxygenation can be sufficient, which may reflect the initial stage of the triple H (hypothermia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia) syndrome. In high snow densities, ScO2 showed a significant decrease caused by a critical decrease in oxygen supply. This could lead to a higher risk of hypoxic cardiac arrest and brain damage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy; Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Hannes Gatterer
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Marika Falla
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy; Centre for Mind/Brain Sciences - CIMeC, University of Trento, Rovereto (TN), Italy
| | - Tomas Dal Cappello
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Sandro Malacrida
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Rachel Turner
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Kai Schenk
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Peter Paal
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospitallers Brothers Hospital, Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
| | - Markus Falk
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Jürg Schweizer
- WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos Dorf, Switzerland
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy; Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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14
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Strapazzon G, Putzer G, Dal Cappello T, Falla M, Braun P, Falk M, Glodny B, Pinggera D, Helbok R, Brugger H. Effects of hypothermia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia on brain oxygenation and hemodynamic parameters during simulated avalanche burial: a porcine study. J Appl Physiol (1985) 2020; 130:237-244. [PMID: 33151777 DOI: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00498.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Avalanche patients who are completely buried but still able to breathe are exposed to hypothermia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia (triple H syndrome). Little is known about how these pathological changes affect brain physiology. The study aim was to investigate the effect of hypothermia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia on brain oxygenation and systemic and cerebral hemodynamics. Anesthetized pigs were surface cooled to 28°C. Fraction of inspiratory oxygen ([Formula: see text]) was reduced to 17% and hypercapnia induced. Hemodynamic parameters and blood gas values were monitored. Cerebral measurements included cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP), brain tissue oxygen tension ([Formula: see text]), cerebral venous oxygen saturation ([Formula: see text]), and regional cerebral oxygen saturation (rSo2). Tests were interrupted when hemodynamic instability occurred or 60 min after hypercapnia induction. ANOVA for repeated measures was used to compare values across phases. There was no clinically relevant reduction in cerebral oxygenation ([Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], rSo2) during hypothermia and initial [Formula: see text] reduction. Hypercapnia was associated with an increase in pulmonary resistance followed by a decrease in cardiac output and CPP, resulting in hemodynamic instability and cerebral desaturation (decrease in [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], rSo2). Hypercapnia may be the main cause of cardiovascular instability, which seems to be the major trigger for a decrease in cerebral oxygenation in triple H syndrome despite severe hypothermia.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Avalanche patients who are completely buried but still able to breathe are exposed to hypothermia, hypoxia, and hypercapnia (triple H syndrome). In a porcine model, there was no clinically relevant reduction in cerebral oxygenation during hypothermia and initial reduction of fraction of inspiratory oxygen ([Formula: see text]), as observed during hypercapnia. Hypercapnia may be the main cause of cardiovascular instability, which seems to be the major trigger for a decrease in cerebral oxygenation in triple H syndrome despite severe hypothermia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- Eurac Research, Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy.,Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gabriel Putzer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Tomas Dal Cappello
- Eurac Research, Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Marika Falla
- Eurac Research, Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy.,Centre for Mind/Brain Sciences (CIMeC), University of Trento, Italy
| | - Patrick Braun
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Markus Falk
- Eurac Research, Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Bernhard Glodny
- Department of Radiology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Daniel Pinggera
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Raimund Helbok
- Neurological Intensive Care Unit, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Eurac Research, Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy.,Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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15
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McIntosh SE, Little CE, Seibert TD, Polukoff NE, Grissom CK. Reply to: Reconsidering the air pocket around mouth and nose as a positive outcome predictor in completely buried avalanche victims. Resuscitation 2020; 152:210-211. [PMID: 32234369 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2020.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2020] [Accepted: 03/21/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Scott E McIntosh
- University of Utah Health, Division of Emergency Medicine, 50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States.
| | - Colin E Little
- University of Utah Health, Division of Emergency Medicine, 50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Thomas D Seibert
- University of Utah Health, Division of Emergency Medicine, 50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Natalya E Polukoff
- University of Utah Health, Division of Emergency Medicine, 50 North Medical Drive, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, United States
| | - Colin K Grissom
- Intermountain Medical Center, 5121 S Cottonwood St, Murray, UT 84107, United States
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16
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Avalanche airbag post-burial active deflation - The ability to create an air pocket to delay asphyxiation and prolong survival. Resuscitation 2019; 146:155-160. [PMID: 31812665 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2019.11.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2019] [Revised: 11/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/21/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
AIM The primary purpose of an avalanche airbag is to prevent burial during an avalanche. Approximately twenty percent of avalanche victims deploying airbags become critically buried, however. One avalanche airbag actively deflates three minutes after deployment, potentially creating an air pocket. Our objective was to evaluate this air pocket and its potential to prevent asphyxiation. METHODS Twelve participants were fitted with an airbag and placed prone on the snow. Participants deployed the airbag and were buried in 1.5 m of snow for 60 min with vital signs including oxygen saturation (SpO2) and end-tidal CO2 (ETCO2) measured every minute. Participants completed a post-burial survey to determine head movement within the air pocket. RESULTS Eleven of the 12 participants (92%) completed 60 min of burial. Preburial baseline SpO2 measurements did not change significantly over burial time (P > 0.05). Preburial baseline ETCO2 measurements increased over the burial time (P < 0.02); only one ETCO2 value was outside of the normal ETCO2 range (35-45 mmHg). Participants reported they could move their head forward 11.2 cm (SD 4.8 cm) and backward 6.6 cm (SD 5.1 cm) with the majority of participants stated that they had enough head movement to separate the oral cavity from opposing snow if necessary. Visual examination during extrication revealed a well-defined air pocket in all burials. CONCLUSION The avalanche airbag under study creates an air pocket that appears to delay asphyxia, which could allow extra time for rescue and improve overall survival of avalanche victims.
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17
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Wallner B, Moroder L, Brandt A, Mair P, Erhart S, Bachler M, Putzer G, Turner R, Strapazzon G, Falk M, Brugger H. Extrication Times During Avalanche Companion Rescue: A Randomized Single-Blinded Manikin Study. High Alt Med Biol 2019; 20:245-250. [PMID: 31264903 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2019.0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Aims: This study aimed to determine the time needed for one or two companion rescuers to access, extricate, and deliver cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to a fully buried manikin during a simulated avalanche burial scenario. Materials and Methods: In this randomized, single-blinded study, 18 medical students were required to extricate a manikin manually from a simulated avalanche burial of 1 m in depth, either alone or in teams of two. Each participant performed three consecutive tests with the manikin in three different positions in random order. Results: Median time to first manikin contact was 2.5 minutes, median time to airway access 7.2 minutes, and median time to standard position for CPR 10.1 minutes. Overall, the number of rescuers (one compared to two rescuers, 10.5 minutes vs. 9.3 minutes; p = 0.686) and the burial position of the manikin (10.8 minutes vs. 10.6 minutes vs. 8.8 minutes; p = 0.428) had no influence on extrication times. Preexisting training (6.1 minutes vs. 11.0 minutes p = 0.006) and a learning effect obtained during the experiments (12.4 minutes the first test vs. 9.3 in the third test; p = 0.017) improved all extrication times. Conclusion: It takes an average of 7 minutes after location of a simulated avalanche victim, buried at a depth of 1 m, to free the airway, plus a further 3 minutes to initiate CPR in standard supine position. This is more than two-thirds of the 15 minutes considered necessary for successful companion avalanche rescue. Even minimal training significantly reduced extrication times. These findings emphasize the importance of regular practice in specific extrication techniques that should be part of any training in avalanche companion rescue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernd Wallner
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Clinic Innsbruck, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.,Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Luca Moroder
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, General Hospital Brixen, Brixen, Italy
| | - Anna Brandt
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Clinic Innsbruck, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Peter Mair
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Clinic Innsbruck, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Stefanie Erhart
- Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University Hospital Hall in Tirol, Hall in Tirol, Austria
| | - Mirjam Bachler
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Clinic Innsbruck, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gabriel Putzer
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Clinic Innsbruck, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Rachel Turner
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Markus Falk
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
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18
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Rafl J, Kulhanek F, Kudrna P, Ort V, Roubik K. Response time of indirectly accessed gas exchange depends on measurement method. BIOMED ENG-BIOMED TE 2018; 63:647-655. [PMID: 28802098 DOI: 10.1515/bmt-2017-0070] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2016] [Accepted: 07/03/2017] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
Noninvasive techniques are routinely used for assessment of tissue effects of lung ventilation. However, comprehensive studies of the response time of the methods are scarce. The aim of this study was to compare the response time of noninvasive methods for monitoring of gas exchange to sudden changes in the composition of the inspired gas. A prospective experimental study with 16 healthy volunteers was conducted. A ventilation circuit was designed that enabled a fast change in the composition of the inspiratory gas mixture while allowing spontaneous breathing. The volunteers inhaled a hypoxic mixture, then a hypercapnic mixture, a hyperoxic mixture and finally a 0.3% CO mixture. The parameters with the fastest response to the sudden change of O2 in inhaled gas were peripheral capillary oxygen saturation (SpO2) and regional tissue oxygenation (rSO2). Transcutaneous oxygen partial pressure (tcpO2) had almost the same time of reaction, but its time of relaxation was 2-3 times longer. End-tidal carbon dioxide (EtCO2) response time to change of CO2 concentration in inhaled gas was less than half in comparison with transcutaneous carbon dioxide partial pressure (tcpCO2). All the examined parameters and devices reacted adequately to changes in gas concentration in the inspiratory gas mixture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jakub Rafl
- Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Technology, nam. Sitna 3105, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic, Phone: +420 728 229 991, Fax: +420 224 358 419
| | - Filip Kulhanek
- Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Technology, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Petr Kudrna
- Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Technology, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Vaclav Ort
- Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Technology, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic
| | - Karel Roubik
- Czech Technical University in Prague, Faculty of Biomedical Engineering, Department of Biomedical Technology, 272 01 Kladno, Czech Republic
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19
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Strapazzon G, Brugger H. On-Site Treatment of Snow Avalanche Victims: From Bench to Mountainside. High Alt Med Biol 2018; 19:307-315. [PMID: 30183350 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2018.0036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The number of avalanche accidents involving winter recreationists has notably increased in recent decades due to the increasing popularity of outdoor winter activities. The International Liaison Committee on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR Medcom), and the Wilderness Medical Society have recently published evidenced-based recommendations for the on-site treatment of snow avalanche victims. Despite these recommendations, recent studies found poor knowledge and compliance by both healthcare providers and laypersons. The aim of this nonsystematic review is to provide an updated overview of avalanche accident epidemiology, to present recent advances in snow avalanche pathophysiology, and to discuss recent advancements in on-site treatment of snow avalanche victims.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy .,2 International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR Medcom) , Kloten, Switzerland
| | - Hermann Brugger
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy .,2 International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR Medcom) , Kloten, Switzerland
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20
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Blancher M, Albasini F, Elsensohn F, Zafren K, Hölzl N, McLaughlin K, Wheeler AR, Roy S, Brugger H, Greene M, Paal P. Management of Multi-Casualty Incidents in Mountain Rescue: Evidence-Based Guidelines of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM). High Alt Med Biol 2018; 19:131-140. [PMID: 29446647 PMCID: PMC6014052 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2017.0143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Blancher, Marc, François Albasini, Fidel Elsensohn, Ken Zafren, Natalie Hölzl, Kyle McLaughlin, Albert R. Wheeler III, Steven Roy, Hermann Brugger, Mike Greene, and Peter Paal. Management of multi-casualty incidents in mountain rescue: Evidence-based guidelines of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM). High Alt Med Biol. 19:131–140, 2018. Introduction: Multi-Casualty Incidents (MCI) occur in mountain areas. Little is known about the incidence and character of such events, and the kind of rescue response. Therefore, the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) set out to provide recommendations for the management of MCI in mountain areas. Materials and Methods: Details of MCI occurring in mountain areas related to mountaineering activities and involving organized mountain rescue were collected. A literature search using (1) PubMed, (2) national mountain rescue registries, and (3) lay press articles on the internet was performed. The results were analyzed with respect to specific aspects of mountain rescue. Results: We identified 198 MCIs that have occurred in mountain areas since 1956: 137 avalanches, 38 ski lift accidents, and 23 other events, including lightning injuries, landslides, volcanic eruptions, lost groups of people, and water-related accidents. Discussion: General knowledge on MCI management is required. Due to specific aspects of triage and management, the approach to MCIs may differ between those in mountain areas and those in urban settings. Conclusions: Mountain rescue teams should be prepared to manage MCIs. Knowledge should be reviewed and training performed regularly. Cooperation between terrestrial rescue services, avalanche safety authorities, and helicopter crews is critical to successful management of MCIs in mountain areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marc Blancher
- 1 Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Grenoble-Alps , Grenoble, France .,2 The French Mountain Rescue Association (ANMSM) , Grenoble, France
| | - François Albasini
- 2 The French Mountain Rescue Association (ANMSM) , Grenoble, France .,3 Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Jean de Maurienne Hospital , St. Jean de Maurienne, France
| | | | - Ken Zafren
- 4 ICAR MedCom , Roethis, Austria .,5 Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center , Stanford, California.,6 Alaska Mountain Rescue Group , Anchorage, Alaska
| | - Natalie Hölzl
- 7 Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Klinikum Kempten, Germany
| | - Kyle McLaughlin
- 8 Department of Emergency Medicine, Canmore, Canada .,9 Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Calgary , Calgary, Canada
| | - Albert R Wheeler
- 10 Department of Emergency Medicine, St John's Medical Center , Jackson, Wyoming.,11 Search and Rescue Medical Director, Grand Teton National Park , Jackson, Wyoming
| | - Steven Roy
- 12 Quebec Secours SAR, Resident Physician Elective in Wilderness Medicine, McGill University , Montreal, Canada
| | - Hermann Brugger
- 13 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , EURAC Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Mike Greene
- 14 Emergency Medicine Physician, Medical Officer Mountain Rescue England and Wales , Whitehaven, England
| | - Peter Paal
- 15 Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Hospitallers Brothers Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University , Salzburg, Austria
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21
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Effects of snow properties on humans breathing into an artificial air pocket - an experimental field study. Sci Rep 2017; 7:17675. [PMID: 29247235 PMCID: PMC5732296 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-017-17960-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/01/2017] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Breathing under snow, e.g. while buried by a snow avalanche, is possible in the presence of an air pocket, but limited in time as hypoxia and hypercapnia rapidly develop. Snow properties influence levels of hypoxia and hypercapnia, but their effects on ventilation and oxygenation in humans are not fully elucidated yet. We report that in healthy subjects breathing into snow with an artificial air pocket, snow density had a direct influence on ventilation, oxygenation and exhaled CO2. We found that a rapid decline in O2 and increase in CO2 were mainly associated with higher snow densities and led to premature interruption due to critical hypoxia (SpO2 ≤ 75%). However, subjects in the low snow density group demonstrated a higher frequency of test interruptions than expected, due to clinical symptoms related to a rapid CO2 accumulation in the air pocket. Snow properties determine the oxygen support by diffusion from the surrounding snow and the clearance of CO2 by diffusion and absorption. Thus, snow properties are co-responsible for survival during avalanche burial.
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22
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Abstract
Accidental hypothermia is an unintentional drop in core temperature to 35°C or below. Core temperature is best measured by esophageal probe. If core temperature cannot be measured, the degree should be estimated using clinical signs. Treatment is to protect from further heat loss, minimize afterdrop, and prevent cardiovascular collapse during rescue and resuscitation. The patient should be handled gently, kept horizontal, insulated, and actively rewarmed. Active rewarming is also beneficial in mild hypothermia but passive rewarming usually suffices. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation should be performed if there are no contraindications to resuscitation. CPR may be delayed or intermittent.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Zafren
- Alaska Department of Health and Social Services, State of Alaska, Juneau, AK, USA; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM), Zürich, Switzerland; Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA; Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, AK, USA.
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23
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Van Tilburg C, Grissom CK, Zafren K, McIntosh S, Radwin MI, Paal P, Haegeli P, Smith WWR, Wheeler AR, Weber D, Tremper B, Brugger H. Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Prevention and Management of Avalanche and Nonavalanche Snow Burial Accidents. Wilderness Environ Med 2017; 28:23-42. [PMID: 28257714 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2016.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Revised: 09/14/2016] [Accepted: 10/12/2016] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
To provide guidance to clinicians and avalanche professionals about best practices, the Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel to develop evidence-based guidelines for the prevention, rescue, and medical management of avalanche and nonavalanche snow burial victims. Recommendations are graded on the basis of quality of supporting evidence according to the classification scheme of the American College of Chest Physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher Van Tilburg
- Occupational, Travel, and Emergency Medicine Departments, Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital, Hood River, OR (Dr Van Tilburg); Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA (Drs Van Tilburg, Zafren, Smith, and Wheeler).
| | - Colin K Grissom
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Intermountain Medical Center and the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Dr Grissom)
| | - Ken Zafren
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA (Drs Van Tilburg, Zafren, Smith, and Wheeler); Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (Dr Zafren); International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (Drs Brugger, Paal, and Zafren)
| | - Scott McIntosh
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh and Wheeler)
| | - Martin I Radwin
- Iasis Healthcare Physician Group of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Dr Radwin)
| | - Peter Paal
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (Drs Brugger, Paal, and Zafren); Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom (Dr Paal); Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, University Hospital, Innsbruck, Austria (Dr Paal)
| | - Pascal Haegeli
- School of Resource and Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC (Dr Haegeli)
| | - William Will R Smith
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA (Drs Van Tilburg, Zafren, Smith, and Wheeler); Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Johns Medical Center, Jackson, WY (Drs Smith and Wheeler); Clinical WWAMI Faculty, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA (Dr Smith)
| | - Albert R Wheeler
- Mountain Rescue Association, San Diego, CA (Drs Van Tilburg, Zafren, Smith, and Wheeler); Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh and Wheeler); Department of Emergency Medicine, St. Johns Medical Center, Jackson, WY (Drs Smith and Wheeler)
| | - David Weber
- Denali National Park & Preserve, Talkeetna, AK (Mr Weber); Intermountain Life Flight, Salt Lake City, UT (Mr Weber)
| | - Bruce Tremper
- Utah Avalanche Center, Salt Lake City, UT (Mr Tremper)
| | - Hermann Brugger
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (Drs Brugger, Paal, and Zafren); EURAC Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy (Dr Brugger)
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Work of Breathing into Snow in the Presence versus Absence of an Artificial Air Pocket Affects Hypoxia and Hypercapnia of a Victim Covered with Avalanche Snow: A Randomized Double Blind Crossover Study. PLoS One 2015; 10:e0144332. [PMID: 26666523 PMCID: PMC4682855 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0144332] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2015] [Accepted: 11/17/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Presence of an air pocket and its size play an important role in survival of victims buried in the avalanche snow. Even small air pockets facilitate breathing. We hypothesize that the size of the air pocket significantly affects the airflow resistance and work of breathing. The aims of the study are (1) to investigate the effect of the presence of an air pocket on gas exchange and work of breathing in subjects breathing into the simulated avalanche snow and (2) to test whether it is possible to breathe with no air pocket. The prospective interventional double-blinded study involved 12 male volunteers, from which 10 completed the whole protocol. Each volunteer underwent two phases of the experiment in a random order: phase “AP”—breathing into the snow with a one-liter air pocket, and phase “NP”—breathing into the snow with no air pocket. Physiological parameters, fractions of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the airways and work of breathing expressed as pressure-time product were recorded continuously. The main finding of the study is that it is possible to breath in the avalanche snow even with no air pocket (0 L volume), but breathing under this condition is associated with significantly increased work of breathing. The significant differences were initially observed for end-tidal values of the respiratory gases (EtO2 and EtCO2) and peripheral oxygen saturation (SpO2) between AP and NP phases, whereas significant differences in inspiratory fractions occurred much later (for FIO2) or never (for FICO2). The limiting factor in no air pocket conditions is excessive increase in work of breathing that induces increase in metabolism accompanied by higher oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production. The presence of even a small air pocket reduces significantly the work of breathing.
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Truhlář A, Deakin CD, Soar J, Khalifa GEA, Alfonzo A, Bierens JJLM, Brattebø G, Brugger H, Dunning J, Hunyadi-Antičević S, Koster RW, Lockey DJ, Lott C, Paal P, Perkins GD, Sandroni C, Thies KC, Zideman DA, Nolan JP, Böttiger BW, Georgiou M, Handley AJ, Lindner T, Midwinter MJ, Monsieurs KG, Wetsch WA. European Resuscitation Council Guidelines for Resuscitation 2015: Section 4. Cardiac arrest in special circumstances. Resuscitation 2015; 95:148-201. [PMID: 26477412 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2015.07.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 532] [Impact Index Per Article: 59.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anatolij Truhlář
- Emergency Medical Services of the Hradec Králové Region, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic; Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, University Hospital Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.
| | - Charles D Deakin
- Cardiac Anaesthesia and Cardiac Intensive Care, NIHR Southampton Respiratory Biomedical Research Unit, Southampton University Hospital NHS Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Jasmeet Soar
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK
| | | | - Annette Alfonzo
- Departments of Renal and Internal Medicine, Victoria Hospital, Kirkcaldy, Fife, UK
| | | | - Guttorm Brattebø
- Bergen Emergency Medical Services, Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Haukeland University Hospital, Bergen, Norway
| | - Hermann Brugger
- EURAC Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bozen, Italy
| | - Joel Dunning
- Department of Cardiothoracic Surgery, James Cook University Hospital, Middlesbrough, UK
| | | | - Rudolph W Koster
- Department of Cardiology, Academic Medical Center, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - David J Lockey
- Intensive Care Medicine and Anaesthesia, Southmead Hospital, North Bristol NHS Trust, Bristol, UK; School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
| | - Carsten Lott
- Department of Anesthesiology, University Medical Center, Johannes Gutenberg-Universitaet, Mainz, Germany
| | - Peter Paal
- Barts Heart Centre, St Bartholomew's Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, Queen Mary University of London, London, UK; Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, University Hospital Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Gavin D Perkins
- Warwick Medical School, University of Warwick, Coventry, UK; Critical Care Unit, Heart of England NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
| | - Claudio Sandroni
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Catholic University School of Medicine, Rome, Italy
| | | | - David A Zideman
- Department of Anaesthetics, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Jerry P Nolan
- Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Royal United Hospital, Bath, UK; School of Clinical Sciences, University of Bristol, UK
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Zafren K, Giesbrecht GG, Danzl DF, Brugger H, Sagalyn EB, Walpoth B, Weiss EA, Auerbach PS, McIntosh SE, Némethy M, McDevitt M, Dow J, Schoene RB, Rodway GW, Hackett PH, Bennett BL, Grissom CK. Wilderness Medical Society practice guidelines for the out-of-hospital evaluation and treatment of accidental hypothermia: 2014 update. Wilderness Environ Med 2015; 25:S66-85. [PMID: 25498264 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2014.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
To provide guidance to clinicians, the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) convened an expert panel to develop evidence-based guidelines for the out-of-hospital evaluation and treatment of victims of accidental hypothermia. The guidelines present the main diagnostic and therapeutic modalities and provide recommendations for the management of hypothermic patients. The panel graded the recommendations based on the quality of supporting evidence and the balance between benefits and risks/burdens according the criteria published by the American College of Chest Physicians. The guidelines also provide suggested general approaches to the evaluation and treatment of accidental hypothermia that incorporate specific recommendations. This is an updated version of the original Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for the Out-of-Hospital Evaluation and Treatment of Accidental Hypothermia published in Wilderness & Environmental Medicine 2014;25(4):425-445.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Zafren
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) (Dr Zafren).
| | - Gordon G Giesbrecht
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, Departments of Anesthesia and Emergency Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada (Dr Giesbrecht)
| | - Daniel F Danzl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY (Dr Danzl)
| | - Hermann Brugger
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) (Dr Zafren); European Academy Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy (Dr Brugger)
| | - Emily B Sagalyn
- University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV (Dr Sagalyn)
| | - Beat Walpoth
- Service of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (Dr Walpoth)
| | - Eric A Weiss
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA; Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (Drs Weiss and Auerbach)
| | - Paul S Auerbach
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA; Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (Drs Weiss and Auerbach)
| | - Scott E McIntosh
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh, Némethy, and McDevitt)
| | - Mária Némethy
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh, Némethy, and McDevitt)
| | - Marion McDevitt
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh, Némethy, and McDevitt)
| | - Jennifer Dow
- Alaska Regional Hospital, Anchorage, AK; Denali National Park and Preserve, AK (Dr Dow)
| | | | - George W Rodway
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, NV (Dr Rodway)
| | - Peter H Hackett
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Altitude Research Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO; Institute for Altitude Medicine, Telluride, CO (Dr Hackett)
| | - Brad L Bennett
- Military & Emergency Medicine Department, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, MD (Dr Bennett)
| | - Colin K Grissom
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Intermountain Medical Center and the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Dr Grissom)
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Kornhall DK, Martens-Nielsen J. The prehospital management of avalanche victims. J ROY ARMY MED CORPS 2015; 162:406-412. [PMID: 26092971 DOI: 10.1136/jramc-2015-000441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2015] [Revised: 05/31/2015] [Accepted: 06/01/2015] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Avalanche accidents are frequently lethal events with an overall mortality of 23%. Mortality increases dramatically to 50% in instances of complete burial. With modern day dense networks of ambulance services and rescue helicopters, health workers often become involved during the early stages of avalanche rescue. Historically, some of the most devastating avalanche accidents have involved military personnel. Armed forces are frequently deployed to mountain regions in order to train for mountain warfare or as part of ongoing conflicts. Furthermore, military units are frequently called to assist civilian organised rescue in avalanche rescue operations. It is therefore important that clinicians associated with units operating in mountain regions have an understanding of, the medical management of avalanche victims, and of the preceding rescue phase. The ensuing review of the available literature aims to describe the pathophysiology particular to avalanche victims and to outline a structured approach to the search, rescue and prehospital medical management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel K Kornhall
- Anesthesia and Critical Care Research Group, UIT-The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway.,Department of Internal Medicine, Helgeland Hospital Trust, Sandnessjoen, Norway.,East Anglian Air Ambulance, Marshall Airfield, Cambridge, UK.,Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital of North Norway, Tromsoe, Norway.,Svolvaer Alpine Rescue Group, Svolvaer, Norway
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Moroder L, Mair B, Brugger H, Voelckel W, Mair P. Outcome of avalanche victims with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest. Resuscitation 2015; 89:114-8. [PMID: 25625778 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2015.01.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Revised: 01/13/2015] [Accepted: 01/16/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
STUDY BACKGROUND Previous studies focused on the outcome of avalanche victims with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) after long duration of burial (>35min); the outcome of victims with short duration (≤35min) remains obscure. AIM OF THE STUDY To investigate outcome of avalanche victims with OHCA. METHODS Retrospective analysis of avalanche victims with OHCA between 2008 and 2013 in the Tyrolean Alps. RESULTS 55 avalanche victims were identified, 32 of whom were declared dead after extrication without cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), all with long duration of burial. In the remaining 23 CPR was initiated at scene; three were partially and 20 completely buried, nine of whom suffered short and 11 long duration of burial. All nine victims with short duration of burial underwent restoration of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) at scene, four of them after bystander CPR, five after advanced life support by the emergency physician. Two patients with ROSC after short duration of burial and bystander CPR survived to hospital discharge with cerebral performance category 1. None of the 11 victims with long duration of burial survived to hospital discharge, although six were transported to hospital with ongoing CPR and three were supported with extracorporeal circulation. CONCLUSIONS In this case series survival with favourable neurological outcome was observed in avalanche victims with short duration of burial only if bystander CPR was immediately performed and ROSC achieved. Strategies for reducing avalanche mortality should focus on prompt extrication from the snow and immediate bystander CPR by uninjured companions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Moroder
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Birgit Mair
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; Christophorus Emergency Medical Helicopter Service, Schubertring 1-3, 1010 Vienna, Austria
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC Research, Viale Druso 1, 39100 Bolzano, Italy
| | - Wolfgang Voelckel
- Christophorus Emergency Medical Helicopter Service, Schubertring 1-3, 1010 Vienna, Austria; Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, AUVA Trauma Hospital Salzburg, Dr.-Franz-Rehrl-Platz 4, 5010 Salzburg, Austria
| | - Peter Mair
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria; Christophorus Emergency Medical Helicopter Service, Schubertring 1-3, 1010 Vienna, Austria.
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Zafren K, Giesbrecht GG, Danzl DF, Brugger H, Sagalyn EB, Walpoth B, Weiss EA, Auerbach PS, McIntosh SE, Némethy M, McDevitt M, Dow J, Schoene RB, Rodway GW, Hackett PH, Bennett BL, Grissom CK. Wilderness Medical Society practice guidelines for the out-of-hospital evaluation and treatment of accidental hypothermia. Wilderness Environ Med 2014; 25:425-45. [PMID: 25443771 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2014.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2014] [Revised: 09/05/2014] [Accepted: 09/08/2014] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
To provide guidance to clinicians, the Wilderness Medical Society (WMS) convened an expert panel to develop evidence-based guidelines for the out-of-hospital evaluation and treatment of victims of accidental hypothermia. The guidelines present the main diagnostic and therapeutic modalities and provide recommendations for the management of hypothermic patients. The panel graded the recommendations based on the quality of supporting evidence and the balance between benefits and risks/burdens according the criteria published by the American College of Chest Physicians. The guidelines also provide suggested general approaches to the evaluation and treatment of accidental hypothermia that incorporate specific recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ken Zafren
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (Drs Zafren, Weiss, and Auerbach); International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) (Drs Zafren and Brugger).
| | - Gordon G Giesbrecht
- Faculty of Kinesiology and Recreation Management, Departments of Anesthesia and Emergency Medicine, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada (Dr Giesbrecht)
| | - Daniel F Danzl
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Louisville, School of Medicine, Louisville, KY (Dr Danzl)
| | - Hermann Brugger
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) (Drs Zafren and Brugger); European Academy Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Bolzano, Italy (Dr Brugger)
| | - Emily B Sagalyn
- University of Nevada School of Medicine, Reno, NV (Dr Sagalyn)
| | - Beat Walpoth
- Service of Cardiovascular Surgery, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland (Dr Walpoth)
| | - Eric A Weiss
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (Drs Zafren, Weiss, and Auerbach)
| | - Paul S Auerbach
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Department of Surgery, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA (Drs Zafren, Weiss, and Auerbach)
| | - Scott E McIntosh
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh, Némethy, and McDevitt)
| | - Mária Némethy
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh, Némethy, and McDevitt)
| | - Marion McDevitt
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs McIntosh, Némethy, and McDevitt)
| | - Jennifer Dow
- Alaska Regional Hospital, Anchorage, AK (Dr Dow); Denali National Park and Preserve, AK (Dr Dow)
| | | | - George W Rodway
- Division of Health Sciences, University of Nevada, Reno, NV (Dr Rodway)
| | - Peter H Hackett
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Altitude Research Center, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO (Dr Hackett); Institute for Altitude Medicine, Telluride, CO (Dr Hackett)
| | - Brad L Bennett
- Military & Emergency Medicine Department, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, MD (Dr Bennett)
| | - Colin K Grissom
- Division of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Intermountain Medical Center and the University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Dr Grissom)
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Resuscitation of avalanche victims: Evidence-based guidelines of the international commission for mountain emergency medicine (ICAR MEDCOM): intended for physicians and other advanced life support personnel. Resuscitation 2012; 84:539-46. [PMID: 23123559 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2012.10.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 123] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2012] [Revised: 10/14/2012] [Accepted: 10/23/2012] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In North America and Europe ∼150 persons are killed by avalanches every year. METHODS The International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) systematically developed evidence-based guidelines and an algorithm for the management of avalanche victims using a worksheet of 27 Population Intervention Comparator Outcome questions. Classification of recommendations and level of evidence are ranked using the American Heart Association system. RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS If lethal injuries are excluded and the body is not frozen, the rescue strategy is governed by the duration of snow burial and, if not available, by the victim's core-temperature. If burial time ≤35 min (or core-temperature ≥32 °C) rapid extrication and standard ALS is important. If burial time >35 min and core-temperature <32 °C, treatment of hypothermia including gentle extrication, full body insulation, ECG and core-temperature monitoring is recommended, and advanced airway management if appropriate. Unresponsive patients presenting with vital signs should be transported to a hospital capable of active external and minimally invasive rewarming such as forced air rewarming. Patients with cardiac instability or in cardiac arrest (with a patent airway) should be transported to a hospital for extracorporeal membrane oxygenation or cardiopulmonary bypass rewarming. Patients in cardiac arrest should receive uninterrupted CPR; with asystole, CPR may be terminated (or withheld) if a patient is lethally injured or completely frozen, the airway is blocked and duration of burial >35 min, serum potassium >12 mmol L(-1), risk to the rescuers is unacceptably high or a valid do-not-resuscitate order exists. Management should include spinal precautions and other trauma care as indicated.
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[Life-saving air supported avalanche mission at night in high alpine terrain]. Anaesthesist 2012; 61:892-900. [PMID: 22965184 DOI: 10.1007/s00101-012-2082-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2012] [Revised: 08/16/2012] [Accepted: 08/20/2012] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This is a case report about a helicopter emergency medical service (HEMS) operation during the night in response to an avalanche accident with two completely buried victims. One of the victims was rescued alive after 9.2 h presenting with a patent airway and an air pocket and was successfully rewarmed with forced air from 23°C core temperature without any neurological deficits. After the rescue the patient developed lung edema which resolved spontaneously within 2 days. The second victim was found dead presenting with an air pocket but solid frozen thorax. The special circumstances of the rescue operation and treatment are presented and discussed. The impact of a frozen chest on resuscitation decisions is presented and discussed with an emphasis on the triage of multiple victims.
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Paal P, Milani M, Brown D, Boyd J, Ellerton J. Termination of Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Mountain Rescue. High Alt Med Biol 2012; 13:200-8. [DOI: 10.1089/ham.2011.1096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Paal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Austria
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM)
| | - Mario Milani
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM)
- Department of Laboratory Medicine, Anatomical Pathology and Department of Emergency Services, SSUEm/118, A.O. Ospedale di Lecco, Lecco, Italy. Mountain and Cave Rescue National Association (CNSAS) MedCom, Italy
| | - Douglas Brown
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM)
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Jeff Boyd
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM)
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mineral Springs Hospital, Banff, Canada
- International Federation of Mountain Guides
| | - John Ellerton
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM)
- Mountain Rescue Council (England & Wales) Pinfold, Penrith, Cumbria, England
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Paal P, Strapazzon G, Braun P, Ellmauer PP, Schroeder DC, Sumann G, Werner A, Wenzel V, Falk M, Brugger H. Factors affecting survival from avalanche burial--a randomised prospective porcine pilot study. Resuscitation 2012; 84:239-43. [PMID: 22771873 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2012.06.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2012] [Revised: 06/18/2012] [Accepted: 06/22/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM The majority of avalanche victims who sustain complete burial die within 35min due to asphyxia and injuries. After 35min, survival is possible only in the presence of a patent airway, and an accompanying air pocket around the face may improve survival. At this stage hypothermia is assumed to be an important factor for survival because rapid cooling decreases oxygen consumption; if deep hypothermia develops before cardiac arrest, hypothermia may be protective and prolong the time that cardiac arrest can be survived. The aim of the study was to investigate the combined effects of hypoxia, hypercapnia and hypothermia in a porcine model of avalanche burial. METHODS Eight piglets were anaesthetised, intubated and buried under snow, randomly assigned to an air pocket (n=5) or ambient air (n=3) group. RESULTS Mean cooling rates in the first 10min of burial were -19.7±4.7°Ch(-1) in the air pocket group and -13.0±4.4°Ch(-1) in the ambient air group (P=0.095); overall cooling rates between baseline and asystole were -4.7±1.4°Ch(-1) and -4.6±0.2°Ch(-1) (P=0.855), respectively. In the air pocket group cardiac output (P=0.002), arterial oxygen partial pressure (P=0.001), arterial pH (P=0.002) and time to asystole (P=0.025) were lower, while arterial carbon dioxide partial pressure (P=0.007) and serum potassium (P=0.042) were higher compared to the ambient air group. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate that hypothermia may develop in the early phase of avalanche burial and severe asphyxia may occur even in the presence of an air pocket.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Paal
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
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Brugger H, Paal P, Boyd J. Prehospital resuscitation of the buried avalanche victim. High Alt Med Biol 2012; 12:199-205. [PMID: 21962062 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2011.1025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
In North America and Europe, approximately 150 people die of avalanches per year, and fatalities are presumed to be many times higher in developing countries. Four factors are decisive for survival: grade of burial, duration of burial, presence of an air pocket and a free airway, and severity of trauma. According to Swiss data, the overall mortality rate with avalanche burial is 23%, but it largely depends on the grade of burial. While the mortality rate is 52.4% in completely buried (head below the snow) victims in the Swiss population, it is only 4.2% in partially buried (head free) victims. Additionally, survival in completely buried victims drops to 30% within the first 35 min, initially due to death from lethal trauma, followed by asphyxia in 20-35 min. Thereafter, survival decreases more gradually and victims who are not fatally injured and are able to breath under the snow slowly succumb to hypoxia, hypercapnia, and hypothermia. In the absence of fatal injuries, rescue strategies depend on the duration of burial and the victim's core temperature. With a burial time<35 min, survival depends on preventing asphyxia by rapid extrication, adequate airway management, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation. With a burial time>35 min, tackling hypothermia is of utmost importance. Therefore, gentle extrication and continuous core temperature and electrocardiogram monitoring are recommended. Pulseless victims with a patent airway and a core temperature<32°C should receive uninterrupted cardiopulmonary resuscitation and be transported to a hospital with extracorporeal rewarming facilities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, European Academy, Bozen/Bolzano, Italy.
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Strapazzon G, Procter E, Brugger H. The Quest for Evidence-Based Medicine in Mountain Areas. High Alt Med Biol 2011; 12:399-400. [DOI: 10.1089/ham.2011.1058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, European Academy of Bolzano, Bozen/Bolzano, Italy
| | - Emily Procter
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, European Academy of Bolzano, Bozen/Bolzano, Italy
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, European Academy of Bolzano, Bozen/Bolzano, Italy
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Haegeli P, Falk M, Brugger H, Etter HJ, Boyd J. Comparison of avalanche survival patterns in Canada and Switzerland. CMAJ 2011; 183:789-95. [PMID: 21422139 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.101435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Current recommendations for rescue and resuscitation of people buried in avalanches are based on Swiss avalanche survival data. We analyzed Canadian survival patterns and compared them with those from Switzerland. METHODS We extracted relevant data for survivors and nonsurvivors of complete avalanche burials from Oct. 1, 1980, to Sept. 30, 2005, from Canadian and Swiss databases. We calculated survival curves for Canada with and without trauma-related deaths as well as for different outdoor activities and snow climates. We compared these curves with the Swiss survival curve. RESULTS A total of 301 people in the Canadian database and 946 in the Swiss database met the inclusion criteria. The overall proportion of people who survived did not differ significantly between the two countries (46.2% [139/301] v. 46.9% [444/946]; p = 0.87). Significant differences were observed between the overall survival curves for the two countries (p = 0.001): compared with the Swiss curve, the Canadian curve showed a quicker drop at the early stages of burial and poorer survival associated with prolonged burial. The probability of survival fell quicker with trauma-related deaths and in denser snow climates. Poorer survival probabilities in the Canadian sample were offset by significantly quicker extrication (median duration of burial 18 minutes v. 35 minutes in the Swiss sample; p < 0.001). INTERPRETATION Observed differences in avalanche survival curves between the Canadian and Swiss samples were associated with the prevalence of trauma and differences in snow climate. Although avoidance of avalanches remains paramount for survival, the earlier onset of asphyxia, especially in maritime snow climates, emphasizes the importance of prompt extrication, ideally within 10 minutes. Protective devices against trauma and better clinical skills in organized rescue may further improve survival.
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Deakin CD, Morrison LJ, Morley PT, Callaway CW, Kerber RE, Kronick SL, Lavonas EJ, Link MS, Neumar RW, Otto CW, Parr M, Shuster M, Sunde K, Peberdy MA, Tang W, Hoek TLV, Böttiger BW, Drajer S, Lim SH, Nolan JP. Part 8: Advanced life support: 2010 International Consensus on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation and Emergency Cardiovascular Care Science with Treatment Recommendations. Resuscitation 2011; 81 Suppl 1:e93-e174. [PMID: 20956032 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2010.08.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
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Morrison LJ, Deakin CD, Morley PT, Callaway CW, Kerber RE, Kronick SL, Lavonas EJ, Link MS, Neumar RW, Otto CW, Parr M, Shuster M, Sunde K, Peberdy MA, Tang W, Hoek TLV, Böttiger BW, Drajer S, Lim SH, Nolan JP, Adrie C, Alhelail M, Battu P, Behringer W, Berkow L, Bernstein RA, Bhayani SS, Bigham B, Boyd J, Brenner B, Bruder E, Brugger H, Cash IL, Castrén M, Cocchi M, Comadira G, Crewdson K, Czekajlo MS, Davies SR, Dhindsa H, Diercks D, Dine CJ, Dioszeghy C, Donnino M, Dunning J, El Sanadi N, Farley H, Fenici P, Feeser VR, Foster JA, Friberg H, Fries M, Garcia-Vega FJ, Geocadin RG, Georgiou M, Ghuman J, Givens M, Graham C, Greer DM, Halperin HR, Hanson A, Holzer M, Hunt EA, Ishikawa M, Ioannides M, Jeejeebhoy FM, Jennings PA, Kano H, Kern KB, Kette F, Kudenchuk PJ, Kupas D, La Torre G, Larabee TM, Leary M, Litell J, Little CM, Lobel D, Mader TJ, McCarthy JJ, McCrory MC, Menegazzi JJ, Meurer WJ, Middleton PM, Mottram AR, Navarese EP, Nguyen T, Ong M, Padkin A, Ferreira de Paiva E, Passman RS, Pellis T, Picard JJ, Prout R, Pytte M, Reid RD, Rittenberger J, Ross W, Rubertsson S, Rundgren M, Russo SG, Sakamoto T, Sandroni C, Sanna T, Sato T, Sattur S, Scapigliati A, Schilling R, Seppelt I, Severyn FA, Shepherd G, Shih RD, Skrifvars M, Soar J, Tada K, Tararan S, Torbey M, Weinstock J, Wenzel V, Wiese CH, Wu D, Zelop CM, Zideman D, Zimmerman JL. Part 8: Advanced Life Support. Circulation 2010; 122:S345-421. [DOI: 10.1161/circulationaha.110.971051] [Citation(s) in RCA: 250] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Cooling of six centigrades in an hour during avalanche burial. Resuscitation 2010; 81:1043-4. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2010.04.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2010] [Accepted: 04/20/2010] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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Boyd J, Brugger H, Shuster M. Prognostic factors in avalanche resuscitation: a systematic review. Resuscitation 2010; 81:645-52. [PMID: 20371145 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2010.01.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2009] [Revised: 01/12/2010] [Accepted: 01/18/2010] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Avalanche resuscitation will save lives if focussed on victims that have the potential to survive. The purpose of this systematic review was to examine 4 critical prognostic factors for burial victims in cardiac arrest. METHODS Time of burial, airway patency, core temperature and serum potassium level were analyzed as PICO (Patient/population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) questions within the 2010 Consensus on Science process of the International Liaison Committee on Resuscitation. The electronic databases of Medline via PubMed, EMBASE via OVID and the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews were searched using combinations of the search terms "avalanche", "air pocket", "hypothermia" and "serum potassium". RESULTS Of 1910 publications that were identified 30 were found relevant. The predictive value for survival of a short time of burial or a patent airway after 35 min of burial is supported by 10 retrospective case-control studies, 4 case series and 2 experimental studies, while no studies are neutral or opposed. A core temperature of less than 32 degrees C with a patent airway is supported by 2 retrospective case-control studies and 3 case series, while 10 studies are neutral. Serum potassium level is supported by 6 retrospective case-control studies and 3 case reports, while 3 retrospective case-control studies and 1 animal model are neutral. CONCLUSION After 35 min of burial, or where the core temperature is less than 32 degrees C, a patent airway is associated with survival to hospital discharge. A serum potassium of less than 7 mmol/L may be a valuable indicator for survival when other indicators are unclear. These findings should modify the current avalanche resuscitation scheme.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Boyd
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mineral Springs Hospital, Banff, AB, Canada.
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Triaging Multiple Victims in an Avalanche Setting: The Avalanche Survival Optimizing Rescue Triage Algorithmic Approach. Wilderness Environ Med 2010; 21:28-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2009.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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Machado C, Pérez-Nellar J, Scherle C, Pando A, Korein J. Cardio-respiratory reanimation: The brain is the target organ. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.cacc.2009.09.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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Brugger H, Paal P, Hohlrieder M, Sumann G. Medizinische Aspekte zum Lawinenunfall. Notf Rett Med 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s10049-008-1109-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Lawinenunfall. Rechtsmedizin (Berl) 2008. [DOI: 10.1007/s00194-008-0531-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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Arora MM, Bhatia JK, Rana K. Analysis of Non Enemy Action Deaths in Counter Insurgency Operations through Mortuary Services. Med J Armed Forces India 2008; 64:104-7. [PMID: 27408106 DOI: 10.1016/s0377-1237(08)80047-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2007] [Accepted: 09/20/2007] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regional Trauma Centre in the northern India receives the mortal remains of all fallen soldiers for embalming. Non enemy action deaths during counter insurgency operations (CI Ops) were analysed for planning preventive measures. METHODS Mortal remains received for embalming from Jan 1999 to Dec 2006 were analysed with respect to mode of injury, causation, body parts involved, fatality, seasonal variation and changing trends. RESULT Accidents accounted for 3.02 deaths per thousand troops and environmental factors were responsible for 1.14 deaths per thousand troops deployed. Accidental deaths peaked in 2000, declined in 2001 and then remained more or less static. Of the accidental deaths, 88% were brought in dead and 12% died after reaching hospital. Road traffic accidents were the major killers accounting for 48.2%, followed by accidental discharge of weapon 35.5%. The latter is showing a rising trend from 8% of total accidents in 2001 to 65% in 2005 and 51% in 2006 (p<.01). Most (49.7%) of the deaths were below 25 years of age. Proportion of persons below 25 years was more in fatalities due to accidental gunshot wound. Amongst the road traffic accidents, 40% died of head injury and 51.2% due to multiple injuries. When deaths occurred due to accidental discharge of own weapon, 36.4% had brain injury and 22% heart injury. Of the environmental fatalities all but one were brought in dead. Majority were due to avalanches and landslides (51.2%), followed by earthquake (22.4%), lightning (12.8%), high altitude pulmonary oedema (10.4%) and hypothermia (3.2%). Most of the deaths due to avalanches occurred in February while all deaths due to earthquake were in October 2005. Of the deaths due to lightning, 75% occurred in April and May. CONCLUSION Prevention of death caused by road traffic accidents, accidental discharge of weapon, avalanches and lightning will conserve manpower and add to operational preparedness.
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Affiliation(s)
- M M Arora
- Professor & Head, Dept of Biochemistry, AFMC, Pune 411040
| | - J K Bhatia
- Deputy Director of Medical Services, HQ Delhi Area, PIN 900106, C/o 56 APO
| | - Kvs Rana
- Graded Specialist Pathology, Military Hospital, Mathura (UP)
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Abstract
OBJECTIVE Avalanche fatalities occur on a yearly basis in Utah. The purpose of this study was to assess avalanche safety practices of different backcountry users in Utah and to identify groups that can be targeted for avalanche safety education. METHODS We surveyed 353 winter backcountry users to determine the percentage of participants in each group who were traveling with one or more partners; the percentage who were carrying avalanche transceivers, shovels, probes, or AvaLungs; and the percentage who had taken an avalanche safety course. A measure of minimum safe practice was defined as 1) traveling with a partner, 2) carrying an avalanche transceiver, and 3) carrying a shovel. Participants in this study were backcountry skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, snowmobilers, and out-of-bounds resort skiers/snowboarders traveling in the Wasatch and Uinta Mountains of Utah during the winter of 2005-06. RESULTS The percentage of backcountry recreationists traveling with one or more partners was not significantly different (P=.0658) among backcountry skiers, snowboarders, snowshoers, snowmobilers, and out-of-bounds resort skiers/snowboarders. These groups did, however, differ in the percentage who carried avalanche transceivers (P<.0001), shovels (P<.0001), probes (P<.0001), and AvaLungs (P=.0020), as well as in the percentage who had taken an avalanche safety course (P<.0001) and the percentage who were carrying out minimum safe practices (P<.0001). Backcountry skiers showed the highest level of avalanche preparedness, with 98% carrying avalanche transceivers, 98% carrying shovels, 77% carrying probes, 86% having taken an avalanche safety course, and 88% carrying out minimum safe practices. Out of bounds snowboarders were the least prepared with 9% carrying avalanche transceivers, 9% carrying shovels, 7% carrying probes, 33% having taken an avalanche safety course, and 2% carrying out minimum safe practices. CONCLUSIONS There are significant differences in the avalanche safety practices of the various groups of backcountry travelers in Utah. Backcountry skiers and snowboarders were the most prepared, while snowmobilers, snowshoers, and out-of-bounds skiers/snowboarders were relatively less prepared.
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Brugger H, Etter HJ, Zweifel B, Mair P, Hohlrieder M, Ellerton J, Elsensohn F, Boyd J, Sumann G, Falk M. The impact of avalanche rescue devices on survival. Resuscitation 2007; 75:476-83. [PMID: 17689170 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2007.06.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2007] [Revised: 05/31/2007] [Accepted: 06/07/2007] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Within Europe and North America, the median annual mortality from snow avalanches between 1994 and 2003 was 141. There are two commonly used rescue devices: the avalanche transceiver, which is intended to speed up locating a completely buried person, and the avalanche airbag, which aims to prevent the person from being completely buried. OBJECTIVE This retrospective study aimed to evaluate whether these avalanche rescue devices had an effect on mortality. METHODS The study population was 1504 persons who were involved in 752 avalanches either in Switzerland from 1990 to 2000 and from 2002 to 2003 (1296 persons, 86.2%) or in Austria from 1998 to 2004 (208 persons, 13.8%). RESULTS Persons equipped with an avalanche airbag had a lower chance of dying (2.9% versus 18.9%; P=0.026, OR 0.09, n=1504). In persons who were completely buried, without visible or audible signs at the surface and who did not rescue themselves (n=317), we found a lower median duration of burial (25min versus 125min; P<0.001) and mortality (55.2% versus 70.6%; P<0.001, OR 0.26) in those using an avalanche transceiver than in those not using the device. CONCLUSIONS Our data showed that both the avalanche airbag and the avalanche transceiver reduce mortality. However, to improve the evaluation of rescue devices in the future, the data collection procedures should be reviewed and prospective trials should be considered, as the reliability of retrospective studies is limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann Brugger
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine, Innsbruck Medical University, Europastrasse 17, I-39031 Bruneck, Italy.
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