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Dow J. Cold Injury. Emerg Med Clin North Am 2024; 42:513-525. [PMID: 38925771 DOI: 10.1016/j.emc.2024.02.012] [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: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
Cold injury has been documented for centuries and remains a concern for military personnel, winter recreationalists, and urban homeless populations. Treatment advances in the last decades have included thrombolytic and prostaglandin therapies however the mainstay remains early recognition and rapid rewarming. This chapter focuses on frostbite, with a brief overview of other cold related conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer Dow
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alaska Regional Hospital, Anchorage, AK, USA; National Park Service, Alaska Region.
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2
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Gus E, Wang SM, Malic C, Zuccaro J. Routinely collected burn clinical data in Canada: Determining the knowledge gap. Burns 2024; 50:1101-1115. [PMID: 38429127 DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2024.02.009] [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: 10/26/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 02/08/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024]
Abstract
Unlike other developed countries that hold national burn registries to monitor burn injury and care, Canada relies on single-centre secondary datasets and administrative databases as surveillance mechanisms. The objective of this study was to determine the knowledge gap faced in Canada for not having a dedicated burn registry. A comprehensive scoping review was conducted to identify the burn literature that has arisen from secondary datasets in Canada. Literature of all study designs was included with the exception of case reports and cases series. Once data extraction was concluded, a thematic framework was constructed based on the information that arose from nations that hold national burn registries. Eighty-eight studies were included. Twelve studies arose from national datasets, and 18 from provincial databases, most of which were from Ontario and British Columbia. Only seven studies were conducted using a combination of Canadian units' single-centre datasets. The majority of included studies (58%) resulted from non-collaborative use of single-centre secondary datasets. Research efforts were predominantly conducted by burn units in Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba and Alberta. A significant number of the included studies were outdated and several provinces/territories had no published burn data whatsoever. Efforts should be made towards the development of systems to surveil burn injury and care in Canada. This study supports the development of a nation-wide burn registry to bridge this knowledge gap.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Gus
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada; Department of Surgery, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada.
| | - Sabrina M Wang
- Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Canada
| | - Claudia Malic
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Surgery, University of Ottawa, Ontario, Canada; Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Zuccaro
- Division of Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Canada
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Wibbenmeyer L, Lacey AM, Endorf FW, Logsetty S, Wagner ALL, Gibson ALF, Nygaard RM. American Burn Association Clinical Practice Guidelines on the Treatment of Severe Frostbite. J Burn Care Res 2024; 45:541-556. [PMID: 37045447 DOI: 10.1093/jbcr/irad022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/14/2023]
Abstract
This Clinical Practice Guideline addresses severe frostbite treatment. We defined severe frostbite as atmospheric cooling that results in a perfusion deficit to the extremities. We limited our review to adults and excluded cold contact or rapid freeze injuries that resulted in isolated devitalized tissue. After developing population, intervention, comparator, outcomes (PICO) questions, a comprehensive literature search was conducted with the help of a professional medical librarian. Available literature was reviewed and systematically evaluated. Recommendations based on the available scientific evidence were formulated through consensus of a multidisciplinary committee. We conditionally recommend the use of rapid rewarming in a 38 to 42°C water bath and the use of thrombolytics for fewer amputations and/or a more distal level of amputation. We conditionally recommend the use of "early" administration of thrombolytics (≤12 hours from rewarming) compared to "later" administration of thrombolytics for fewer amputations and/or a more distal level of amputation. No recommendation could be formed on the use of vascular imaging studies to determine the use of and/or the time to initiate thrombolytic therapy. No recommendation could be formed on the use of intravenous thrombolytics compared to the use of intra-arterial thrombolytics on fewer amputations and/or a more distal level of amputation. No recommendation could be formed on the use of iloprost resulting in fewer amputations and/or more distal levels of amputation. No recommendation could be formed on the use of diagnostic imaging modalities for surgical planning on fewer amputations, a more distal level of amputation, or earlier timing of amputation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucy Wibbenmeyer
- Department of Surgery, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | | | | | - Sarvesh Logsetty
- Departments of Surgery, Psychiatry, and Children's Health, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba R3E 3P5, Canada
| | - Anne L L Wagner
- Department of Surgery, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37212, USA
| | - Angela L F Gibson
- Department of Surgery, University of Wisconsin School of Medicine and Public Health, Madison, WI 53792, USA
| | - Rachel M Nygaard
- Department of Surgery, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, MN 55415, USA
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Gruber E, Oberhammer R, Brugger H, Bresadola E, Avogadri M, Kompatscher J, Kaufmann M. Prolonged critical avalanche burial for nearly 23 h with severe hypothermia and severe frostbite with good recovery: a case report. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2024; 32:11. [PMID: 38347576 PMCID: PMC10863192 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-024-01184-3] [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: 12/09/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accidental hypothermia with severe frostbite is a rare combination of injuries with a high risk for long-term sequelae. There are widely accepted recommendations for the management of avalanche victims and for frostbite treatment, but no recommendation exists for the treatment of frostbite in severe hypothermic patients, specifically for the management of hypothermic avalanche victims presenting with frostbite. CASE PRESENTATION We present a case of a previously healthy, 53-year-old male skier who was critically buried by an avalanche at 2300 m of altitude at an ambient temperature of - 8 °C for nearly 23 h. The victim was found with the right hand out of the snow and an air connection to outside. He was somnolent with Glasgow Coma Scale 11 (Eye 4, Verbal 2, Motor 5) and spontaneously breathing, in a severely hypothermic state with an initial core temperature of 23.1 °C and signs of cold injuries in all four extremities. After rescue and active external forced air rewarming in the intensive care unit, the clinical signs of first-degree frostbite on both feet and the left hand vanished, while third- to fourth-degree frostbite injuries became apparent on all fingers of the right hand. After reaching a core body temperature of approximately 36 °C, aggressive frostbite treatment was started with peripheral arterial catheter-directed thrombolysis with alteplase, intravenous iloprost, ibuprofen, dexamethasone and regional sympathicolysis with a right-sided continuous axillary block. After ten months, the patient had no tissue loss but needed neuropathic pain treatment with pregabalin. CONCLUSION The combination of severe accidental hypothermia and severe frostbite is rare and challenging, as drug metabolism is unpredictable in a hypothermic patient and no recommendations for combined treatment exist. There is general agreement to give hypothermia treatment the priority and to begin frostbite treatment as early as possible after full rewarming of the patient. More evidence is needed to identify the optimal dosage and time point to initiate treatment of frostbite in severely hypothermic patients. This should be taken into consideration by future treatment recommendations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elisabeth Gruber
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Teaching Hospital of Paracelsus Medical University, Via Lorenz Boehler 5, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy.
- HELI HEMS Service South Tyrol, Via Lorenz Boehler 3, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy.
| | - Rosmarie Oberhammer
- HELI HEMS Service South Tyrol, Via Lorenz Boehler 3, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Emergency Medicine and Pain Therapy, Hospital of Brunico (SABES-ASDAA), Teaching Hospital of Paracelsus Medical University, Via Ospedale 11, 39031, Brunico-Bruneck, Italy
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Via Ipazia 2, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
| | - Elisa Bresadola
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Teaching Hospital of Paracelsus Medical University, Via Lorenz Boehler 5, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
- Aiut Alpin Dolomites Helicopter Emergency Medical Service, Pontives 24, 39040, Laion- Lajen, Italy
| | - Matteo Avogadri
- Aiut Alpin Dolomites Helicopter Emergency Medical Service, Pontives 24, 39040, Laion- Lajen, Italy
| | - Julia Kompatscher
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Teaching Hospital of Paracelsus Medical University, Via Lorenz Boehler 5, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
- HELI HEMS Service South Tyrol, Via Lorenz Boehler 3, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
| | - Marc Kaufmann
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Anaesthesia and Intensive Care, Hospital of Bolzano (SABES-ASDAA), Teaching Hospital of Paracelsus Medical University, Via Lorenz Boehler 5, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
- HELI HEMS Service South Tyrol, Via Lorenz Boehler 3, 39100, Bolzano-Bozen, Italy
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Ma X, Pouoh JT, Hogue BT, Bougie E. Frostbite in the Pediatric Population: A Comprehensive Review and a Prospective Canadian Survey. Pediatr Emerg Care 2024:00006565-990000000-00372. [PMID: 38206303 DOI: 10.1097/pec.0000000000003109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Frostbite in the pediatric population, where skeletal maturity has not been achieved, can have important repercussions on subsequent growth. Yet, the optimal management of frostbite injuries in children remains vague. This review aims to summarize the current evidence for frostbite management in children and understand Canadian practice trends on this topic. METHODS A review using Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, and gray literature was performed to identify relevant literature on the clinical manifestations, diagnostic methods, and treatment options in pediatric frostbite. An online survey was sent to plastic surgeons through the Canadian Society of Plastic Surgeons (CSPS) mailing list to further identify national practices and trends for pediatric frostbite management. RESULTS A total of 109 articles were reviewed. No article provided a specific algorithm for pediatric frostbite, with existing recommendations suggesting the use of adult guidelines for treating children. Our survey yielded 9 responses and highlighted the rarity of pediatric frostbite cases, with no responder treating more than 10 cases per year. Most (55.6%) do not use a pediatric-specific treatment algorithm, whereas 30% apply adult guidelines. A conservative approach focusing on rewarming (55.6%), limb elevation (50%), and tetanus status verification (66.7%) was predominant. Imaging and surgical interventions seem to be reserved for severe cases. CONCLUSIONS The current literature for pediatric frostbite management lacks specificity. Canadian practices vary, with a trend toward a conservative approach. The limited evidence and rarity of experience highlight the need for further research, ideally in a collaborative multicentric manner, to create a consensus for pediatric frostbite care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiya Ma
- From the Division of Plastic Surgery, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Poole A, Ahmed Y, Davidson M. The Occasional frostbite. CANADIAN JOURNAL OF RURAL MEDICINE 2024; 29:30-36. [PMID: 38358103 DOI: 10.4103/cjrm.cjrm_2_23] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Alexander Poole
- Whitehorse General Hospital, Yukon Hospital Corporation, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Yousuf Ahmed
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Dalhousie University, Saint John, Canada
- Department of Family Medicine, Dalhousie University, Saint John, Canada
| | - Malcolm Davidson
- Temerty School of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Regli IB, Oberhammer R, Zafren K, Brugger H, Strapazzon G. Frostbite treatment: a systematic review with meta-analyses. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2023; 31:96. [PMID: 38072923 PMCID: PMC10712146 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-023-01160-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Accepted: 11/25/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Our objective was to perform a systematic review of the outcomes of various frostbite treatments to determine which treatments are effective. We also planned to perform meta-analyses of the outcomes of individual treatments for which suitable data were available. MAIN BODY We performed a systematic review and meta-analyses in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. We searched PubMed, Cochrane Trials, and EMBase to identify primary references from January 1, 1900, to June 18, 2022. After eliminating duplicates, we screened abstracts to identify eligible studies containing information on treatment and outcomes of Grade 2 to 4 frostbite. We performed meta-analyses of groups of articles that provided sufficient data. We registered our review in the prospective registry of systematic reviews PROSPERO (Nr. 293,693). We identified 4,835 potentially relevant studies. We excluded 4,610 studies after abstract screening. We evaluated the full text of the remaining 225 studies, excluding 154. Ultimately, we included 71 articles with 978 cases of frostbite originating from 1 randomized controlled trial, 20 cohort studies and 51 case reports. We found wide variations in classifications of treatments and outcomes. The two meta-analyses we performed both found that patients treated with thrombolytics within 24 h had better outcomes than patients treated with other modalities. The one randomized controlled trial found that the prostacyclin analog iloprost was beneficial in severe frostbite if administered within 48 h. CONCLUSIONS Iloprost and thrombolysis may be beneficial for treating frostbite. The effectiveness of other commonly used treatments has not been validated. More prospective data from clinical trials or an international registry may help to inform optimal treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ivo B Regli
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC Research, Viale Druso 1, 39100, Bolzano, BZ, Italy.
- Dr. Regli's Alpine Medical Services and Research, Unterägeri, ZG, Switzerland.
- Department of Internal and Emergency Medicine, Bürgerspital, Solothurn, SO, Switzerland.
| | - Rosmarie Oberhammer
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Hospital of Brunico, Brunico, BZ, Italy
| | - Ken Zafren
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Alaska Native Medical Center, Anchorage, AK, USA
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University Medical Center, Palo Alto, CA, USA
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC Research, Viale Druso 1, 39100, Bolzano, BZ, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC Research, Viale Druso 1, 39100, Bolzano, BZ, Italy
- Department of Anesthesia and Intensive Care, Medical University Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Tyrol, Austria
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Steinberg T, Kristoffersen A, Bjerkan G, Norheim AJ. Freezing cold injuries among soldiers in the Norwegian Armed Forces - A cross sectional study. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2227344. [PMID: 37389983 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2227344] [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: 01/05/2023] [Revised: 06/13/2023] [Accepted: 06/15/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Freezing cold injuries (FCI) are a common risk in extreme cold weather warfare operations. The Norwegian Armed Forces (NAF) have the expertise and capabilities in education and training for warfighting capabilities in the Arctic. Nevertheless, a substantial number of Norwegian soldiers sustain freezing cold injuries annually. The aim of this study was to describe the FCI in the NAF, the associated risk factors and clinical associations. METHODOLOGY The subjects for the study were soldiers registered with FCI in the Norwegian Armed Forces Health Registry (NAFHR) between January 1st 2004-July1st 2021. The soldiers answered a questionnaire regarding background, activities at the time of injury, description of the FCI, risk factors, medical treatment and any sequelae from their FCI. RESULTS FCI in the NAF were most frequently reported among young conscripts (mean20.5 years). Hands and feet are most often injured (90.9%). Only a minority (10.4%) received medical treatment. The majority (72.2%) report sequelae. Extreme weather conditions was the most important risk factor (62.5%). CONCLUSIONS Most soldiers had the knowledge to avoid FCI, but they were injured anyway. It is concerning that only one in 10 injured soldiers received medical treatment after diagnosed with FCI, increasing the risk of FCI sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tuva Steinberg
- Norwegian Armed Forces - Joint Medical Services (NAF-JMS), Sessvollmoen, Norway
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Agnete Kristoffersen
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Geir Bjerkan
- Norwegian Armed Forces - Joint Medical Services (NAF-JMS), Sessvollmoen, Norway
| | - Arne Johan Norheim
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Department of Community Medicine, UiT - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Lowe J, Warner M. Can iloprost be used for treatment of cold weather injury at the point of wounding in a forward operating environment? A literature review. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2210340. [PMID: 37154780 PMCID: PMC10167884 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2210340] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/10/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cold Weather Injury (CWI) represents a spectrum of pathology, the two main divisions being Freezing Cold Injury (FCI) and Non-Freezing Cold Injury (NFCI). Both are disabling conditions associated with microvascular and nerve injury often treated hours after initial insult when presenting to a healthcarestablishment. Given that iloprost is used for the treatment of FCI, could it be used in a forward operating environment to mitigate treatment delay? Is there a role for its use in the forward treatment of NFCI? This review sought to evaluate the strength of evidence for the potential use of iloprost in a forward operating environment. METHODS Literature searches were undertaken using the following question for both FCI and NFCI: in [patients with FCI/NFCI] does [the use of iloprost] compared to [standard care] reduce the incidence of [long-term complications]. Medline, CINAHL and EMBASE databases were searched using the above question and relevant alternative terminology. Abstracts were reviewed before full articles were requested. RESULTS The FCI search yielded 17 articles that were found to refer to the use of iloprost and FCI. Of the 17, one referred to pre-hospital treatment of frostbite at K2 base camp; however, this was utilising tPA. No articles referred to pre-hospital use in either FCI or NFCI. DISCUSSION Although evidence exists to support the use of iloprost in the treatment of FCI, its use to date has been in hospital. A common theme is delayed treatment due to the challenges of evacuating casualties from a remote location. There may be a role for iloprost in the treatment of FCI; however, further study is required to better understand the risk of its use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonathon Lowe
- British Antarctic Survey Medical Unit, Emergency Department, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK
| | - Matthew Warner
- British Antarctic Survey Medical Unit, Emergency Department, Derriford Hospital, Plymouth, UK
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Norheim AJ, Sullivan-Kwantes W, Steinberg T, Castellani J, Friedl KE. The classification of freezing cold injuries - a NATO research task group position paper. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2203923. [PMID: 37083565 PMCID: PMC10124983 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2203923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Freezing cold injuries (FCI) are a common risk in extreme cold weather operations. Although the risks have long been recognised, injury occurrences tend to be sparse and geographically distributed, with relatively few cases to study in a systematic way. The first challenge to improve FCI medical management is to develop a common nomenclature for FCI classification. This is critical for the development of meaningful epidemiological reports on the magnitude and severity of FCI, for the standardisation of patient inclusion criteria for treatment studies, and for the development of clinical diagnosis and treatment algorithms. METHODOLOGY A scoping review of the literature using PubMed and cross-checked with Google Scholar, using search terms related to freezing cold injury and frostbite, highlighted a paucity of published clinical papers and little agreement on classification schemes. RESULTS A total of 74 papers were identified, and 28 were included in the review. Published reports and studies can be generally grouped into four different classification schemes that are based on (1) injury morphology; (2) signs and symptoms; (3) pathophysiology; and (4) clinical outcome. The nomenclature in the different classification systems is not coherent and the discrete classification limits are not evidence based. CONCLUSIONS All the classification systems are necessary and relevant to FCI medical management for sustainment of soldier health and performance in cold weather operations and winter warfare. Future FCI reports should clearly characterise the nature of the FCI into existing classification schemes for surveillance (morphology, symptoms, and appearance), identifying risk-factors, clinical guidelines, and agreed inclusion/exclusion criteria for a future treatment trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arne Johan Norheim
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Institute of Community Medicine, UiT- The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Wendy Sullivan-Kwantes
- Joint medical services, Defence Research and Development Canada-Toronto Research Center, Sessvollmoen
| | - Tuva Steinberg
- National Research Center in Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NAFKAM), Institute of Community Medicine, UiT- The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Norwegian Armed Forces - Joint Medical Service, Norway
| | - John Castellani
- U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick MA USA
| | - Karl E Friedl
- U.S. Army Research Institute of Environmental Medicine, Natick MA USA
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Gauthier J, Morris-Janzen D, Poole A. Iloprost for the treatment of frostbite: a scoping review. Int J Circumpolar Health 2023; 82:2189552. [PMID: 36966492 PMCID: PMC10044161 DOI: 10.1080/22423982.2023.2189552] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/27/2023] Open
Abstract
We performed a scoping review to identify the extent of the literature describing the use of iloprost in the treatment of frostbite. Iloprost is a stable synthetic analog of prostaglandin I2. As a potent inhibitor of platelet aggregation and vasodilator, it has been used to address the post-rewarming reperfusion injury in frostbite. The search using iloprost and frostbite as key words and MeSH terms yielded 200 articles. We included in our review the literature examining iloprost for the treatment of frostbite in humans in the form of primary research, conference proceedings and abstracts. Twenty studies published from 1994 to 2022 were selected for analysis. The majority were retrospective case series consisting of a homogeneous population of mountain sport enthusiasts. A total of 254 patients and over 1000 frostbitten digits were included among the 20 studies. The larger case series demonstrated a decrease in amputation rates relative to untreated patients. Primary gaps in the literature include a paucity of randomised trials and relatively limited study populations to date. While the case evidence is promising, a multi-centre collaboration would be crucial to adequately power prospective randomised studies to definitively determine if iloprost has a role in the treatment of frostbite.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josianne Gauthier
- Whitehorse General Hospital, Yukon Hospital Corporation, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
| | - Dunavan Morris-Janzen
- Northern Medical Program, University of British Columbia, Prince George, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Alexander Poole
- Whitehorse General Hospital, Yukon Hospital Corporation, Whitehorse, Yukon, Canada
- Department of Surgery, Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
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Klammer L, Ollier M, Gauthier J, Allen LR, Davidson M, Ahmed Y, Smith-Turchyn J, Hansen-Jaumard D, Hebert S, Logsetty S, Morris-Jantzen D, Peet R, Poole AJ, Champion C. Exploring the Development of a Canadian Frostbite Care Network and the Future of Frostbite Care in Canada Using a Qualitative Approach. Wilderness Environ Med 2023; 34:427-434. [PMID: 37479605 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2023.06.001] [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: 03/22/2023] [Revised: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 06/08/2023] [Indexed: 07/23/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The Canadian Frostbite Collaborative project is exploring frostbite patient care needs and current practices in Canada to inform the development of a Canadian frostbite care network (CFCN) as a national quality improvement initiative. METHODS Using a quantitative and qualitative approach, this study aimed to define the landscape of current frostbite practices, challenges, and interest in future work. RESULTS Current frostbite care practices were initially assessed through semistructured phone interviews of Canadian healthcare providers. Canadian healthcare providers managing frostbite in a range of health disciplines and contexts then participated in focus group sessions discussing the potential roles and opportunities as well as potential challenges in developing a CFCN. Roles and opportunities for a network in advancing frostbite care included facilitating research, educating stakeholders, facilitating collaboration, standardizing care, and advocating for frostbite care. Challenges identified in frostbite care and network development included managing resources, navigating the Canadian healthcare system, overcoming low numbers, and communicating with policymakers and frontline providers. CONCLUSIONS Formalizing a CFCN may provide important opportunities and support in overcoming critical barriers to providing high-quality frostbite care across Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Klammer
- College of Medicine University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Mary Ollier
- University of Toronto, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Josianne Gauthier
- Whitehorse General Hospital, Yukon Hospital Corporation, Yukon, Canada
| | - Lisa R Allen
- Muskoka Algonquin Healthcare, Huntsville and Bracebridge, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Malcolm Davidson
- University of Toronto, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Yousuf Ahmed
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Saint John Regional Hospital, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada; Department of Family Medicine, Dalhousie University, Saint John, New Brunswick, Canada
| | | | - Delphine Hansen-Jaumard
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hôpital du Sacré-Coeur de Montréal, Montreal, Quebec, Canada; Faculty of Medicine, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Sarvesh Logsetty
- Departments of Surgery and Psychiatry, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Rachel Peet
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex J Poole
- Whitehorse General Hospital, Yukon Hospital Corporation, Yukon, Canada; University of Calgary, Cumming School of Medicine, Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | - Caitlin Champion
- Northern Ontario School of Medicine University, Sudbury, Ontario, Canada; West Parry Sound Health Center, Parry Sound, Ontario, Canada
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Murphy J, Endorf FW, Winters MK, Rogers C, Walter E, Neumann N, Weber L, Lacey AM, Punjabi G, Nygaard RM. Bleeding Complications in Patients With Severe Frostbite Injury. J Burn Care Res 2023; 44:745-750. [PMID: 36482743 DOI: 10.1093/jbcr/irac180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/20/2023]
Abstract
Frostbite is caused by exposure to cold temperatures and can lead to severe injury resulting in amputations. Tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) is a thrombolytic agent that has demonstrated efficacy preventing amputation in frostbite patients. The goal of frostbite management with tPA is to salvage tissue without causing clinically significant bleeding complication. The purpose of this study was to characterize bleeding complications in severe frostbite patients managed with and without tPA. Retrospective chart review of severe frostbite patients admitted to a single ABA verified burn center. Bleeding events were grouped: category 0: no bleed; category 1: bleed not resulting in change or intervention; category 2: bleed resulting in change of management; and category 3: bleed resulting in change of management and intervention. Over a 7-year period, 188 patients were included in the study. Most patients had no documentation suggesting a bleeding complication: 69.7% category 0, 19.1% category 1, 4.8% category 2, and 6.4% category 3. There was no significant difference in category 2 or 3 bleeding complications between patients treated with or without tPA. Overall, 9 of the 143 patients (6.3%) treated with tPA had a category 2 or 3 bleeding complication within 12 hours of tPA completion and 12 of 143 (8.4%) within 24 hours of tPA completion. Based on the low risk of severe bleeding and significant benefit relative to limb or digit salvage demonstrated in this study, we conclude that tPA is safe and effective for the treatment of frostbite in appropriately selected patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenna Murphy
- Pharmacy Department, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | | | - M Kenett Winters
- Pharmacy Department, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Charlotte Rogers
- Department of Surgery, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Ellen Walter
- Pharmacy Department, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Nichole Neumann
- Pharmacy Department, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Lynn Weber
- Pharmacy Department, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Alexandra M Lacey
- Department of Surgery, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Gopal Punjabi
- Department of Radiology, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
| | - Rachel M Nygaard
- Department of Surgery, Hennepin Healthcare, Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA
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Van Wicklin SA. Frostbite 101. PLASTIC AND AESTHETIC NURSING 2023; 43:64-67. [PMID: 37000996 DOI: 10.1097/psn.0000000000000499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/03/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Sharon Ann Van Wicklin
- Sharon Ann Van Wicklin, PhD, RN, CNOR, CRNFA(E), CPSN-R, PLNC, FAAN, ISPAN-F, is Editor-in-Chief, Plastic and Aesthetic Nursing , and is a Perioperative and Legal Nurse Consultant, Aurora, CO
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15
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Practical Review of the Current Management of Frostbite Injuries. Plast Reconstr Surg Glob Open 2022; 10:e4618. [PMID: 36299821 PMCID: PMC9592504 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000004618] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/02/2022]
Abstract
Frostbite is an injury that occurs when the skin and tissues are exposed to temperatures below their freezing point. This type of injury can lead to various complications such as functional loss, chronic pain, and psychological trauma. As such, understanding frostbite management is crucial for optimal patient care. A scoping review was conducted in February 2022 using PubMed, EMBASE, referenced articles and snowballing to identify relevant published articled using the terms "frostbite" and "management" and "surgery. Articles related to pathophysiology, classifications, radiography, complications, and medical and surgical management were included to formulate recommendations for practical management. Two hundred fifty-one articles were identified and 54 met inclusion criteria. Rapid rewarming in warm water (40-42 °C) remains the standard of care. Thrombolytic therapy has been shown in numerous studies to improve tissue salvage. Radiographic imaging has become crucial in the evaluation and management in frostbite injury. Current literature recommends delayed surgery with soft tissue debridement and bone scan-guided amputations. Surgical intervention including debridement, selective blister drainage, fasciotomies, surgical salvage, skin grafts' and flaps are often necessary in these patients towards optimizing form and function. The true prevalence and incidence of frostbite injury is unknown. A centralized national database will improve our understanding of the diagnostic and management modalities used in frostbite care. Plastic surgeons have a critical role in the management of frostbite care and must work with an interdisciplinary team to identify the best treatment route for optimal patient care.
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Crooks S, Shaw BH, Andruchow JE, Lee CH, Walker I. Effectiveness of intravenous prostaglandin to reduce digital amputations from frostbite: an observational study. CAN J EMERG MED 2022; 24:622-629. [DOI: 10.1007/s43678-022-00342-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert L Sheridan
- From the Departments of Surgery (R.L.S., J.M.G.) and Radiology (T.G.W.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and Boston Shriners Hospital for Children (R.L.S., J.M.G.) - both in Boston
| | - Jeremy M Goverman
- From the Departments of Surgery (R.L.S., J.M.G.) and Radiology (T.G.W.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and Boston Shriners Hospital for Children (R.L.S., J.M.G.) - both in Boston
| | - T Gregory Walker
- From the Departments of Surgery (R.L.S., J.M.G.) and Radiology (T.G.W.), Massachusetts General Hospital, and Boston Shriners Hospital for Children (R.L.S., J.M.G.) - both in Boston
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18
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FROSTBITE OF THE UPPER EXTREMITIES: HOT ISSUES IN DIAGNOSIS AND SURGICAL TREATMENT (review). Burns 2022; 48:1279-1286. [DOI: 10.1016/j.burns.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 02/16/2022] [Accepted: 03/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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