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Hawkins SC, Williams J, Bennett BL, Islas A, Quinn R. Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Spinal Cord Protection: 2024 Update. Wilderness Environ Med 2024; 35:78S-93S. [PMID: 38379496 DOI: 10.1177/10806032241227232] [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] [Indexed: 02/22/2024]
Abstract
The Wilderness Medical Society reconvened an expert panel to update best practice guidelines for spinal cord protection during trauma management. This panel, with membership updated in 2023, was charged with the development of evidence-based guidelines for management of the injured or potentially injured spine in wilderness environments. Recommendations are made regarding several parameters related to spinal cord protection. These recommendations are graded based on the quality of supporting evidence and balance the benefits and risks/burdens for each parameter according to American College of Chest Physicians methodology. Key recommendations include the concept that interventions should be goal-oriented (spinal cord/column protection in the context of overall patient and provider safety) rather than technique-oriented (immobilization). An evidence-based, goal-oriented approach excludes the immobilization of suspected spinal injuries via rigid collars or backboards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seth C Hawkins
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Wake Forest University, Winston-Salem, NC
| | - Jason Williams
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Brad L Bennett
- Military & Emergency Medicine Department, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, MD
| | - Arthur Islas
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, Reno, NV
| | - Robert Quinn
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, TX
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Egger A, Huber T, Heschl S, Fiegl J, Burger J, Trimmel H, Schreiber W, Niederer M, Tscherny K, Roth D. Efficacy and Safety of Methoxyflurane for Treatment of Acute Traumatic Pain by EMTs during Alpine Rescue Operations: The "PainDrop" Trial. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2022; 27:987-992. [PMID: 35895001 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2022.2107125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2022] [Accepted: 07/24/2022] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
Background: Treatment of acute traumatic pain is a core task for mountain rescue services. Intravenous access, however, is often difficult, and the vast majority of missions are carried out without a physician at the scene. The spectrum of analgesics available for use by non-physician personnel is limited. Inhaled analgesics, such as methoxyflurane, might prove useful, but currently no data exist on their application by non-physicians in the alpine setting.Methods: This prospective observational alpine field study was conducted over a period of 15 months. Patients suffering traumatic injuries with moderate to severe pain (pain score ≥ 5) after downhill bike accidents in the Tyrol mountains (1,362 m to 2,666 m above sea level) were enrolled. Teams of four mountain rescue service members, one of them a trained EMT, treated the patients with 3 ml of methoxyflurane by inhaler. We measured efficacy as reduction in pain from baseline to 15 minutes after treatment on a numerical rating scale. Safety was assessed by change in vital signs or occurrence of side-effects. Sample-size calculations were based on the efficacy outcome and yielded a need for 20 patients at a power of 0.8.Results: From June 29, 2020 to September 30, 2021, a total of 20 patients (two females; mean age 37 years) were included. The mean initial pain score was 7.2 (SD 1.0) points. After 15 minutes, pain was significantly reduced by a mean of 2.9 (SD 1.4) points. No major adverse events or relevant changes in vital signs were observed.Conclusion: The use of methoxyflurane by EMTs during alpine rescue operations in our study proved to be safe and efficient. We observed no reduction in the efficacy of the inhaler device at moderate altitude.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Egger
- Mountain Rescue Service, Austria
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Scheibbs, Scheibbs, Austria
| | - Tobias Huber
- Mountain Rescue Service, Austria
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Vöcklabruck, Vöcklabruck, Austria
| | - Stefan Heschl
- Mountain Rescue Service, Austria
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | | | - Josef Burger
- Mountain Rescue Service, Austria
- Department of Paediatrics, Hospital Lienz, Lienz, Austria
| | - Helmut Trimmel
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Emergency and Intensive Care Medicine and Karl Landsteiner Institute of Emergency Medicine, General Hospital of Wiener Neustadt, Wiener Neustadt, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Schreiber
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Maximilian Niederer
- Mountain Rescue Service, Austria
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Scheibbs, Scheibbs, Austria
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Katharina Tscherny
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital Scheibbs, Scheibbs, Austria
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Dominik Roth
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Grenier G, Despatis MA, Lebel K, Hamel M, Martin C, Boissy P. Removal of the cervical collar from alpine rescue protocols? A biomechanical non-inferiority trial in real-life mountain conditions. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2022; 30:42. [PMID: 35761355 PMCID: PMC9235139 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-022-01031-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/02/2021] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Alpine skiing rescues are challenging because of the mountainous environment and risks of cervical spine motion (CSM) induced during victims’ extrications (EXs) and downhill evacuations (DEs). The benefits of applying a cervical collar (CC) over manual in-line stabilization without CC (MILS) in terms of spinal motion restriction during simulated alpine rescues are undocumented. Our hypothesis was that CSM recorded using MILS alone is non-inferior to CSM recorded with a CC according to a 10 degrees margin.
Methods A total of 32 alpine extrications and 4 downhill evacuations on different slope conditions were performed using a high fidelity mannequin designed with a motion sensors instrumented cervical spine. The primary outcome was the peak extrication 3D excursion angle (Peak 3D θEX,) of the mannequin’s head. The secondary objectives were to describe the time to extrication completion (tEX) and to highlight which extrication manipulation is more likely to induce CSM. Results The median Peak 3D θEX recorded during flat terrain extrications using CC was 10.77° (95% CI 7.31°–16.45°) compared to 13.06° (95% CI 10.20°–30.36°) using MILS, and 16.09° (95% CI 9.07°–37.43°) for CC versus 16.65° (95% CI 13.80°–23.40°) using MILS on a steep slope. Peak 3D θEX with CC or using MILS during extrications were equivalent according to a 10 degrees non-inferiority hypothesis testing (p < 0.05). Time to extrication completion (tEX) was significantly reduced using MILS without CC on a flat terrain with a median duration of 237,3 s (95% CI 197.8 s, 272.2 s) compared to 358.7 s (95% CI 324.1 s, 472.4 s). During downhill evacuations, CSM with and without CC across all terrain conditions were negligible (< 5°). When CC is used; its installation manipulation induces the highest CSM. When EXs are done using MILS without CC, the logroll initiation is the manipulation inducing the highest risk of CSM. Conclusion For experienced ski patrollers, the biomechanical benefits of spinal motion restriction provided by CC over MILS during alpine skiing rescues appear to be marginal and CC use negatively affects rescue time. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13049-022-01031-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guillaume Grenier
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Marc-Antoine Despatis
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Karina Lebel
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computing Engineering, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Mathieu Hamel
- Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Camille Martin
- Faculty of Engineering, Department of Electrical and Computing Engineering, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.,Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada
| | - Patrick Boissy
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Department of Surgery, Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada. .,Research Center on Aging, CIUSSS Estrie CHUS, Sherbrooke, QC, Canada.
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Roy S, Soteras I, Sheets A, Price R, Oshiro K, Rauch S, McPhalen D, Nerin MA, Strapazzon G, Allen M, Read A, Paal P. Guidelines for Mountain Rescue During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Official Guidelines of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue. High Alt Med Biol 2021; 22:128-141. [PMID: 34166103 PMCID: PMC8252899 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2021.0032] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2021] [Accepted: 04/13/2021] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Roy, Steven, Inigo Soteras, Alison Sheets, Richard Price, Kazue Oshiro, Simon Rauch, Don McPhalen, Maria Antonia Nerin, Giacomo Strapazzon, Myron Allen, Alistair Read, and Peter Paal. Guidelines for mountain rescue during the COVID-19 pandemic: official guidelines of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue. High Alt Med Biol. 22: 128-141, 2021. Background: In mountain rescue, uncertainty exists on the best practice to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) transmission. The aim of this work was to provide a state-of-the-art overview of the challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in mountain rescue. Methods: Original articles or reviews, published until December 27, 2020 in Cochrane COVID-19 Study Register, EMBASE, PubMed, and Google Scholar were included. Articles were limited to English, French, German, or Spanish with the article topic COVID-19 or other epidemics, addressing transmission, transport, rescue, or cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Results: The literature search yielded 6,190 articles. A total of 952 were duplicates and 5,238 were unique results. After exclusion of duplicates and studies that were not relevant to this work, 249 articles were considered for this work. Finally, 72 articles and other sources were included. Conclusions: Recommendations are provided for protection of the rescuer (including screening, personal protective equipment [PPE], and vaccination), protection of the patient (including general masking if low risk, specific PPE if high risk), equipment hygiene (including disinfection after every mission), use of single-use products, training and medical measures under COVID-19 precautions, and psychological wellbeing of rescuers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Adapted COVID-19 precautions for low-and-medium-income countries are also discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven Roy
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
- International Society for Mountain Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Inigo Soteras
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Emergency Medical System, University of Girona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Alison Sheets
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Emergency Medicine, Boulder Community Health, Boulder, Colorado, USA
- School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colorado, USA
| | - Richard Price
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- LandSAR, Christchurch, New Zealand
| | - Kazue Oshiro
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Mountain Medicine, Research, and Survey Division, Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Hokkaido Ohno Memorial Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - Simon Rauch
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, F. Tappeiner Hospital, Merano, Italy
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Don McPhalen
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Surgery, University of Calgary, Calgary, Canada
| | - Maria Antonia Nerin
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Jose Ramon Morandeira Mountain Medicine Association-CUEMUM, Chía, Spain
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
- Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico, National Medical School (CNSAS SNaMed), Milan, Italy
| | - Myron Allen
- National Ski Patrol, Lakewood, Colorado, USA
- Terrestrial Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR), Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Alistair Read
- Terrestrial Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR), Zurich, Switzerland
- Mountain Rescue, England and Wales, Tamworth, United Kingdom
| | - Peter Paal
- Medical Commission of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue (ICAR MEDCOM), Zurich, Switzerland
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospitallers Brothers Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria
- Austrian Board for Mountain Safety, Innsbruck, Austria
- Austrian Society of Mountain and High Altitude Medicine, Mieming, Austria
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5
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Sumann G, Moens D, Brink B, Brodmann Maeder M, Greene M, Jacob M, Koirala P, Zafren K, Ayala M, Musi M, Oshiro K, Sheets A, Strapazzon G, Macias D, Paal P. Multiple trauma management in mountain environments - a scoping review : Evidence based guidelines of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom). Intended for physicians and other advanced life support personnel. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2020; 28:117. [PMID: 33317595 PMCID: PMC7737289 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-020-00790-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Multiple trauma in mountain environments may be associated with increased morbidity and mortality compared to urban environments. Objective To provide evidence based guidance to assist rescuers in multiple trauma management in mountain environments. Eligibility criteria All articles published on or before September 30th 2019, in all languages, were included. Articles were searched with predefined search terms. Sources of evidence PubMed, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and hand searching of relevant studies from the reference list of included articles. Charting methods Evidence was searched according to clinically relevant topics and PICO questions. Results Two-hundred forty-seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Recommendations were developed and graded according to the evidence-grading system of the American College of Chest Physicians. The manuscript was initially written and discussed by the coauthors. Then it was presented to ICAR MedCom in draft and again in final form for discussion and internal peer review. Finally, in a face-to-face discussion within ICAR MedCom consensus was reached on October 11th 2019, at the ICAR fall meeting in Zakopane, Poland. Conclusions Multiple trauma management in mountain environments can be demanding. Safety of the rescuers and the victim has priority. A crABCDE approach, with haemorrhage control first, is central, followed by basic first aid, splinting, immobilisation, analgesia, and insulation. Time for on-site medical treatment must be balanced against the need for rapid transfer to a trauma centre and should be as short as possible. Reduced on-scene times may be achieved with helicopter rescue. Advanced diagnostics (e.g. ultrasound) may be used and treatment continued during transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- G Sumann
- Austrian Society of Mountain and High Altitude Medicine, Emergency physician, Austrian Mountain and Helicopter Rescue, Altach, Austria
| | - D Moens
- Emergency Department Liège University Hospital, CMH HEMS Lead physician and medical director, Senior Lecturer at the University of Liège, Liège, Belgium
| | - B Brink
- Mountain Emergency Paramedic, AHEMS, Canadian Society of Mountain Medicine, Whistler Blackcomb Ski Patrol, Whistler, Canada
| | - M Brodmann Maeder
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital and University of Bern, Switzerland and Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - M Greene
- Medical Officer Mountain Rescue England and Wales, Wales, UK
| | - M Jacob
- Department of Anaesthesiology, Intensive Care and Pain Medicine, Hospitallers Brothers Saint-Elisabeth-Hospital Straubing, Bavarian Mountain Rescue Service, Straubing, Germany
| | - P Koirala
- Adjunct Assistant Professor, Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Mountain Medicine Society of Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - K Zafren
- ICAR MedCom, Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA, USA.,Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, AK, USA
| | - M Ayala
- University Hospital Germans Trias i Pujol, Badalona, Spain
| | - M Musi
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO, USA
| | - K Oshiro
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine and Director of Mountain Medicine, Research, and Survey Division, Hokkaido Ohno Memorial Hospital, Sapporo, Japan
| | - A Sheets
- Emergency Department, Boulder Community Health, Boulder, CO, USA
| | - G Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy.,The Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico, National Medical School (CNSAS SNaMed), Milan, Italy
| | - D Macias
- Department of Emergency Medicine, International Mountain Medicine Center, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, USA
| | - P Paal
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, St. John of God Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Salzburg, Austria.
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Turner S, Lang ES, Brown K, Franke J, Workun-Hill M, Jackson C, Roberts L, Leyton C, Bulger EM, Censullo EM, Martin-Gill C. Systematic Review of Evidence-Based Guidelines for Prehospital Care. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2020; 25:221-234. [PMID: 32286899 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2020.1754978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Multiple national organizations have identified a need to incorporate more evidence-based medicine in emergency medical services (EMS) through the creation of evidence-based guidelines (EBGs). Tools like the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II and criteria outlined by the National Academy of Medicine (NAM) have established concrete recommendations for the development of high-quality guidelines. While many guidelines have been created that address topics within EMS medicine, neither the quantity nor quality of prehospital EBGs have been previously reported. Objectives: To perform a systematic review to identify existing EBGs related to prehospital care and evaluate the quality of these guidelines using the AGREE II tool and criteria for clinical guidelines described by the NAM. Methods: We performed a systematic search of the literature in MEDLINE, EMBASE, PubMED, Trip, and guidelines.gov, through September 2018. Guideline topics were categorized based on the 2019 Core Content of EMS Medicine. Two independent reviewers screened titles for relevance and then abstracts for essential guideline features. Included guidelines were appraised with the AGREE II tool across 6 domains by 3 independent reviewers and scores averaged. Two additional reviewers determined if each guideline reported the key elements of clinical practice guidelines recommended by the NAM via consensus. Results: We identified 71 guidelines, of which 89% addressed clinical aspects of EMS medicine. Only 9 guidelines scored >75% across AGREE II domains and most (63%) scored between 50 and 75%. Domain 4 (Clarity of Presentation) had the highest (79.7%) and domain 5 (Applicability) had the lowest average score across EMS guidelines. Only 38% of EMS guidelines included a reporting of all criteria identified by the NAM for clinical practice guidelines, with elements of a systematic review of the literature most commonly missing. Conclusions: EBGs exist addressing a variety of topics in EMS medicine. This systematic review and appraisal of EMS guidelines identified a wide range in the quality of these guidelines and variable reporting of key elements of clinical guidelines. Future guideline developers should consider established methodological and reporting recommendations to improve the quality of EMS guidelines.
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Hawkins SC, Williams J, Bennett BL, Islas A, Kayser DW, Quinn R. Wilderness Medical Society Clinical Practice Guidelines for Spinal Cord Protection. Wilderness Environ Med 2019; 30:S87-S99. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2019.08.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 08/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Abstract
Participation in skiing, and especially snowboarding, continues to rise. As participation and level of competition in these winter sports increases, the number of injuries increases as well. Upper-extremity injuries are more common in snowboarding, whereas lower-extremity injuries are more common in skiing. Head injuries, particularly concussions, are common in both sports. Special consideration in these sports should be given to environmental conditions, such as high altitude and ultraviolet radiation. The purpose of this review is to discuss the most common musculoskeletal injuries seen in skiing and snowboarding, as well as considerations for initial assessment of these injuries and triage to the appropriate level of care. It is important for sports medicine physicians covering these sports to understand initial assessment and treatment of these injuries. Due to the potential for severe injuries in these sports, it is important to be able to quickly recognize an injury that needs to be assessed and treated urgently or emergently. With the increased participation and number of injuries in these sports, it also is important to consider prevention strategies that may minimize risk of injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Weinstein
- Primary Care Sports Medicine Fellow, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO
| | - Morteza Khodaee
- Department of Family Medicine and Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO
| | - Karin VanBaak
- Department of Family Medicine and Orthopedics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Denver, CO
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Brodmann Maeder M, Saghir R, Pun M, Stawinoga AE, Turner R, Strapazzon G, Exadaktylos AK, Brugger H. Intercultural Competence of Western Teachers for Nepalese Rescuers. High Alt Med Biol 2018; 20:22-27. [PMID: 30526053 PMCID: PMC6459269 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2018.0102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Educational projects in mountain rescue in Nepal have a long tradition. They are usually led by Western experts who train their Nepalese colleagues using teams of people with diverse cultural background. To better understand the challenges of these encounters, we conducted a prospective cohort study during the first mountain rescue instructor course in Nepal. Methods: Western instructors (WIs) and Nepalese instructor candidates (NICs) were asked to self-assess their intercultural competence with the help of questionnaires. The responses were compared and analyzed for differences between WIs and NICs and differences in a pre–post assessment of the WIs. In addition, semistructured interviews were conducted with randomly selected NICs. Results: We found significant differences in communication styles between NICs and WIs: NICs showed a preference to establish relationships before discussing business and not to speak openly in conflict situations. WIs were much more direct and preferred dispassionate exchanges. In an assessment after the course, WIs had changed their attitude toward the host culture. Conclusions: We found differences in communication styles between WIs and NICs that are relevant to globalized medical education. Faculty members should be prepared before implementing medical training abroad and should have time to experience the host culture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Brodmann Maeder
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , EURAC Research, Bolzano, Italy .,2 Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern , Bern, Switzerland
| | - Raphael Saghir
- 3 University of Bern , Faculty of Medicine, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Matiram Pun
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , EURAC Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | | | - Rachel Turner
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , EURAC Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , EURAC Research, Bolzano, Italy
| | - Aristomenis K Exadaktylos
- 2 Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern , Bern, Switzerland
| | - Hermann Brugger
- 1 Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine , EURAC Research, Bolzano, Italy
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Clemency BM, Tanski CT, Gibson Chambers J, O'Brien M, Knapp AS, Clark AJ, McGoff P, Innes J, Lindstrom HA, Hostler D. Compulsory Use of the Backboard is Associated with Increased Frequency of Thoracolumbar Imaging. PREHOSP EMERG CARE 2018; 22:506-510. [PMID: 29447489 DOI: 10.1080/10903127.2017.1413465] [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] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Backboards have been shown to cause pain in uninjured patients. This may alter physical exam findings, leading emergency department (ED) providers to suspect a spinal injury when none exists resulting in additional imaging of the thoracolumbar spine. New York had previously employed a "Spinal Immobilization" protocol that included compulsory backboard application for all patients with suspected spinal injuries. In 2015, New York instituted a new "Spinal Motion Restriction" protocol that made backboard use optional for these patients. The objective of this study was to determine if this protocol change was associated with decreased backboard utilization and ED thoracolumbar spine imaging. METHODS This was a retrospective before-and-after chart review of subjects transported by a single emergency medical services (EMS) agency to one of four EDs for emergency calls dispatched as motor vehicle collisions (MVC). EMS and ED data were included for all calls within a 6-month interval before and after the protocol change. The protocol change was implemented in the second half of 2015. Subject demographics, backboard use, and spine imaging were reviewed for the intervals January-June 2015 and January-June 2016. RESULTS There were 818 subjects in the before period and 796 subjects in the after period. Subjects were similar in terms of gender, age and type of MVC in both periods. A backboard was utilized for 440 (54%) subjects in the before period and 92 (12%) subjects in the after period (p < 0.001). ED thoracic spine imaging was performed on 285 (35%) subjects in the before period, and 235 (30%) subjects in the after period (p = 0.02). ED lumbar spine imaging was performed for 335 (41%) subjects in the before period, and 281 (35%) subjects in the after period (p = 0.02). CONCLUSION A shift from a spinal immobilization protocol to a spinal motion restriction protocol was associated with a decrease in backboard utilization by EMS providers and a decrease in thoracolumbar spine imaging by ED providers.
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Strapazzon G, Reisten O, Argenone F, Zafren K, Zen-Ruffinen G, Larsen GL, Soteras I. International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine Consensus Guidelines for On-Site Management and Transport of Patients in Canyoning Incidents. Wilderness Environ Med 2018; 29:252-265. [PMID: 29422373 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2017.12.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2017] [Revised: 11/23/2017] [Accepted: 12/08/2017] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
Canyoning is a recreational activity that has increased in popularity in the last decade in Europe and North America, resulting in up to 40% of the total search and rescue costs in some geographic locations. The International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine convened an expert panel to develop recommendations for on-site management and transport of patients in canyoning incidents. The goal of the current review is to provide guidance to healthcare providers and canyoning rescue professionals about best practices for rescue and medical treatment through the evaluation of the existing best evidence, focusing on the unique combination of remoteness, water exposure, limited on-site patient management options, and technically challenging terrain. 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)
- Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Bolzano, Italy; Corpo Nazionale Soccorso Alpino e Speleologico, National Medical School (CNSAS SNaMed), Milan, Italy (Dr Strapazzon); International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM), Kloten, Switzerland (Drs Strapazzon, Reisten, Zafren, Zen-Ruffinen, and Soteras).
| | - Oliver Reisten
- International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM), Kloten, Switzerland (Drs Strapazzon, Reisten, Zafren, Zen-Ruffinen, and Soteras); Air Zermatt Air and Mountain Rescue, Alpine Rescue Center, Zermatt, Switzerland; Rescue Service, Solothurn Hospital, Solothurn, Switzerland (Dr Reisten)
| | - Fabien Argenone
- Helicopter Emergency Medical Service 04, ICU, Centre Hospitalier de Digne, Digne les Bains, France; French Mountain Rescue Association (ANMSM Medcom), Grenoble, France (Dr Argenone)
| | - Ken Zafren
- International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM), Kloten, Switzerland (Drs Strapazzon, Reisten, Zafren, Zen-Ruffinen, and Soteras); Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Stanford, CA; Department of Emergency Medicine, Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, AK (Dr Zafren)
| | - Greg Zen-Ruffinen
- International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM), Kloten, Switzerland (Drs Strapazzon, Reisten, Zafren, Zen-Ruffinen, and Soteras); Air Glaciers SA et GRIMM, Sion, Switzerland (Dr Zen-Ruffinen)
| | - Gordon L Larsen
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Dixie Regional Medical Centre, St. George, UT; Search and Rescue Service, Zion National Park, Springdale, UT (Dr Larsen)
| | - Inigo Soteras
- International Commission of Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM), Kloten, Switzerland (Drs Strapazzon, Reisten, Zafren, Zen-Ruffinen, and Soteras); Cerdanya Hospital, Puigcerdà, Spain; Faculty of Medicine, Girona University, Girona, Spain (Dr Soteras)
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12
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Cervical Spine Alignment in Helmeted Skiers and Snowboarders With Suspected Head and Neck Injuries: Comparison of Lateral C-spine Radiographs Before and After Helmet Removal and Implications for Ski Patrol Transport. Wilderness Environ Med 2017; 28:168-175. [PMID: 28684013 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2017.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Revised: 02/20/2017] [Accepted: 03/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Current protocols for spine immobilization of the injured skier/snowboarder have not been scientifically validated. Observing changes in spine alignment during common rescue scenarios will help strengthen recommendations for rescue guidelines. METHODS Twenty-eight healthy volunteers (18 men, 10 women) age 47±17 (range 20-73) (mean ±SD with range) underwent a mock rescue in which candidate patrollers completing an Outdoor Emergency Care course performed spine immobilization and back boarding in 3 scenarios: 1) Ski helmet on, no c-collar; 2) helmet on, with c-collar; and 3) helmet removed, with c-collar. After each scenario, a lateral radiograph was taken of the cervical spine to observe for changes in alignment. RESULTS Compared with the control group (helmet on, no collar), we observed 9 degrees of increased overall (occiput-C7) cervical extension in the helmet on, with collar group (P < .001), and 17 degrees in the helmet off, with collar group (P < .001). There was increased extension at the occiput-C2 intersegment in the helmet on, with collar group (9 degrees, P < .001) and at both the occiput-C2 (9 degrees, P < .001) and C2-C7 (8 degrees, P < .001) intersegments in the helmet off, with collar group. CONCLUSION Ski helmet removal and c-collar application each leads to increased extension of the cervical spine. In the absence of other clinical factors, our recommendation is that helmets should be left in place and c-collars not routinely applied during ski patrol rescue.
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Runcie H, Greene M. Femoral Traction Splints in Mountain Rescue Prehospital Care: To Use or Not to Use? That Is the Question. Wilderness Environ Med 2015; 26:305-11. [PMID: 25819110 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2015.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2014] [Revised: 01/16/2015] [Accepted: 01/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To determine the incidence of femur fractures in mountain rescue in England and Wales. To investigate the attitudes of rescuers toward the use of femoral traction splints. To review the literature for evidence on the use of traction splints in prehospital medicine and test the hypothesis that femoral traction splints reduce morbidity and mortality in patients with a fractured femur. METHODS The Mountain Rescue England and Wales database was searched for cases of suspected fractured femur occurring between 2002 and 2012, a questionnaire was sent to all mountain rescue teams in England and Wales, and a literature review was performed. Relevant articles were critically reviewed to identify the evidence base for the use of femoral traction splints. RESULTS Femur fractures are uncommon in mountain rescue, with an incidence of suspected femur fractures on scene at 9.3 a year. Traction splints are used infrequently; 13% of the suspected femur fractures were treated with traction. However, rescuers have a positive attitude toward traction splints and perceive few disadvantages to their use. No trials demonstrate that traction splints reduce morbidity or mortality, but a number describe complications resulting from their use. CONCLUSIONS Femur fractures are rare within mountain rescue. Traction splints may be no more effective than other methods of splinting in prehospital care. We failed to identify evidence that supports the hypothesis that traction splints reduce morbidity or mortality. We advocate the use of a femoral traction splints but recognize that other splints may also be appropriate in this environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harriet Runcie
- North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust, Emergency Department (Dr Runcie), and Emergency Medicine (Mr Greene), West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven, UK.
| | - Mike Greene
- North Cumbria University Hospitals NHS Trust, Emergency Department (Dr Runcie), and Emergency Medicine (Mr Greene), West Cumberland Hospital, Whitehaven, UK
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Ellerton J, Milani M, Blancher M, Zen-Ruffinen G, Skaiaa SC, Brink B, Lohani A, Paal P. Managing moderate and severe pain in mountain rescue. High Alt Med Biol 2014; 15:8-14. [PMID: 24673533 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2013.1135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
AIMS We aimed to describe evidence-based options for prehospital analgesia, and to offer practical advice to physicians and nonphysicians working in mountain rescue. METHODS A literature search was performed; the results and recommendations were discussed among the authors. Four authors considered a scenario. The final article was discussed and approved by the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) in October 2013. RESULTS AND RECOMMENDATIONS Many health care providers fail to recognize, assess, and treat pain adequately. Assessment scales and treatment protocols should be implemented in mountain rescue services to encourage better management of pain. Specific training in assessing and managing pain is essential for all mountain rescuers. Persons administrating analgesics should receive appropriate detailed training. There is no ideal analgesic that will accomplish all that is expected in every situation. A range of drugs and delivery methods will be needed. Thus, an 'analgesic module' reflecting its users and the environment should be developed. The number of drugs carried should be reduced to a minimum by careful selection and, where possible, utilizing drugs with multiple delivery options. A strong opioid is recommended as the core drug for managing moderate or severe pain; a multimodal approach may provide additional benefits.
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Affiliation(s)
- John Ellerton
- 1 General Practitioner and Medical Officer, Mountain Rescue (England and Wales), Birbeck Medical Group , Penrith, United Kingdom
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15
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Quinn RH, Williams J, Bennett BL, Stiller G, Islas AA, McCord S. Wilderness Medical Society Practice Guidelines for Spine Immobilization in the Austere Environment: 2014 Update. Wilderness Environ Med 2014; 25:S105-17. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2014.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2014] [Revised: 05/22/2014] [Accepted: 05/25/2014] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Human activity in wilderness areas has increased globally in recent decades, leading to increased risk of injury and illness. Wilderness medicine has developed in response to both need and interest. METHODS The field of wilderness medicine encompasses many areas of interest. Some focus on special circumstances (such as avalanches) while others have a broader scope (such as trauma care). Several core areas of key interest within wilderness medicine are discussed in this study. RESULTS Wilderness medicine is characterized by remote and improvised care of patients with routine or exotic illnesses or trauma, limited resources and manpower, and delayed evacuation to definitive care. Wilderness medicine is developing rapidly and draws from the breadth of medical and surgical subspecialties as well as the technical fields of mountaineering, climbing, and diving. Research, epidemiology, and evidence-based guidelines are evolving. A hallmark of this field is injury prevention and risk mitigation. The range of topics encompasses high-altitude cerebral edema, decompression sickness, snake envenomation, lightning injury, extremity trauma, and gastroenteritis. Several professional societies, academic fellowships, and training organizations offer education and resources for laypeople and health care professionals. CONCLUSIONS THE FUTURE OF WILDERNESS MEDICINE IS UNFOLDING ON MULTIPLE FRONTS: education, research, training, technology, communications, and environment. Although wilderness medicine research is technically difficult to perform, it is essential to deepening our understanding of the contribution of specific techniques in achieving improvements in clinical outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Douglas G. Sward
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Hyperbaric Medicine, Shock Trauma Center, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Brad L. Bennett
- Military & Emergency Medicine Department, F. Edward Hébert School of Medicine, Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
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Wilderness Medical Society practice guidelines for spine immobilization in the austere environment. Wilderness Environ Med 2013; 24:241-52. [PMID: 23827829 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2013.03.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/11/2012] [Revised: 03/03/2013] [Accepted: 03/07/2013] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In an effort to produce best-practice guidelines for spine immobilization in the austere environment, the Wilderness Medical Society convened an expert panel charged with the development of evidence-based guidelines for management of the injured or potentially injured spine in an austere (dangerous or compromised) environment. Recommendations are made regarding several factors related to spinal immobilization. These recommendations are graded based on the quality of supporting evidence and balance between the benefits and risks or burdens for each factor according to the methodology stipulated by the American College of Chest Physicians. A treatment algorithm based on the guidelines is presented.
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Johansson J, Sjöberg J, Nordgren M, Sandström E, Sjöberg F, Zetterström H. Prehospital analgesia using nasal administration of S-ketamine--a case series. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2013; 21:38. [PMID: 23672762 PMCID: PMC3660173 DOI: 10.1186/1757-7241-21-38] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2012] [Accepted: 05/05/2013] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Pain is a problem that often has to be addressed in the prehospital setting. The delivery of analgesia may sometimes prove challenging due to problems establishing intravenous access or a harsh winter environment. To solve the problem of intravenous access, intranasal administration of drugs is used in some settings. In cases where vascular access was foreseen or proved hard to establish (one or two missed attempts) on the scene of the accident we use nasally administered S-Ketamine for prehospital analgesia. Here we describe the use of nasally administered S-Ketamine in 9 cases. The doses used were in the range of 0,45-1,25 mg/kg. 8 patients were treated in outdoor winter-conditions in Sweden. 1 patient was treated indoor. VAS-score decreased from a median of 10 (interquartile range 8-10) to 3 (interquartile range 2-4). Nasally administered S-Ketamine offers a possible last resource to be used in cases where establishing vascular access is difficult or impossible. Side-effects in these 9 cases were few and non serious. Nasally administered drugs offer a needleless approach that is advantageous for the patient as well as for health personnel in especially challenging selected cases. Nasal as opposed to intravenous analgesia may reduce the time spent on the scene of the accident and most likely reduces the need to expose the patient to the environment in especially challenging cases of prehospital analgesia. Nasal administration of S-ketamine is off label and as such we only use it as a last resource and propose that the effect and safety of the treatment should be further studied.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joakim Johansson
- The Research and Development Unit, Jämtland County Council, Östersund, Sweden.
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Tomazin I, Ellerton J, Reisten O, Soteras I, Avbelj M. Medical standards for mountain rescue operations using helicopters: official consensus recommendations of the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM). High Alt Med Biol 2012; 12:335-41. [PMID: 22206559 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2010.1096] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this article is to establish medical recommendations for safe and effective Helicopter Emergency Medical Systems (HEMS) in countries with a dedicated mountain rescue service. A nonsystematic search was undertaken and a consensus among members of International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR Medcom) was reached. For the severely injured or ill patient, survival depends on approach time and quality of medical treatment by high-level providers. Helicopters can provide significant shortening of the times involved in mountain rescue. Safety is of utmost importance and everything possible should be done to minimize risk. Even in the mountainous environment, the patient should be reached as quickly as possible (optimally<20 min) and provided with on-site and en-route medical treatment according to international standards. The HEMS unit should be integrated into the Emergency Medical System of the region. All dispatchers should be aware of the specific problems encountered in mountainous areas. The nearest qualified HEMS team to the incident site, regardless of administrative boundaries, should be dispatched. The 'air rescue optimal crew' concept with its flexibility and adaptability of crewmembers ensures that all HEMS tasks can be performed. The helicopter and all equipment should be appropriate for the conditions and specific for mountain related emergencies. These recommendations, agreed by ICAR Medcom, establish recommendations for safe and effective HEMS in mountain rescue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iztok Tomazin
- Mountain Rescue Association of Slovenia, Kranj, Slovenia.
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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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