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Eisendle F, Rauch S, Wallner B, Brugger H, Strapazzon G. Prevalence of airway patency and air pocket in critically buried avalanche victims - a scoping review. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2024; 32:34. [PMID: 38654361 PMCID: PMC11040957 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-024-01205-1] [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: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 04/09/2024] [Indexed: 04/25/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Survival of critically buried avalanche victims is directly dependent on the patency of the airway and the victims' ability to breathe. While guidelines and avalanche research have consistently emphasized on the importance of airway patency, there is a notable lack of evidence regarding its prevalence. OBJECTIVE The aim of this review is to provide insight into the prevalence of airway patency and air pocket in critically buried avalanche victims. METHODS A scoping review was done in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guideline extension for scoping reviews. MEDLINE and Cochrane databases, as well as additional manual searching was performed to identify literature reporting data on airway patency and the presence of an air pocket in critically buried avalanche victims. After eliminating duplicates, we screened abstracts and main texts to identify eligible studies. RESULTS Of 4,109 studies identified 154 were eligible for further screening. Twenty-four publications and three additional data sources with a total number of 566 cases were included in this review. The proportion of short-term (< 35 min) to long-term burial (≥ 35 min) in the analysed studies was 19% and 66%, respectively. The burial duration remained unknown in 12% of cases. The prevalence of airway patency in critically buried avalanche victims was 41% while that of airway obstruction was 12%, with an overall rate of reporting as low as 50%. An air pocket was present in 19% of cases, absent in 46% and unknown in 35% of the cases. CONCLUSION The present study found that in critically buried avalanche victims patent airways were more than three times more prevalent than obstructed, with the airway status reported only in half of the cases. This high rate of airway patency supports the ongoing development and the effectiveness of avalanche rescue systems which oppose asphyxiation in critically buried avalanche victims. Further effort should be done to improve the documentation of airway patency and the presence of an air pocket in avalanche victims and to identify factors affecting the rate of airway obstruction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frederik Eisendle
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Via Ipazia 2, Bolzano, 39100, Italy
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Simon Rauch
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Via Ipazia 2, Bolzano, 39100, Italy
- Department of Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Hospital of Merano, Merano, Italy
| | - Bernd Wallner
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Via Ipazia 2, Bolzano, 39100, Italy
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Eurac Research, Via Ipazia 2, Bolzano, 39100, Italy.
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
- SIMeM Italian Society of Mountain Medicine, Padova, 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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Lane JP, McIntosh SE. Avalanche Airbag Usage and Risk Attitudes of Backcountry Skiers and Snowboarders in the American West. Wilderness Environ Med 2023; 34:187-192. [PMID: 36925387 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2023.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2022] [Revised: 12/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2023] [Indexed: 03/15/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Backcountry skiers and snowboarders are increasingly using avalanche airbags to improve safety. New safety devices can cause risk compensation, the concept in which users take more risks given the larger safety margin provided by the device. This may limit overall benefits. We sought to elucidate attitudes toward risk-taking behaviors and risk compensation in backcountry users relating to avalanche airbags. METHODS A convenience sample of 144 backcountry skiers and snowboarders was surveyed after a backcountry tour in the Wasatch Mountains of Utah and the Tetons of Wyoming during the winter 2020-21 season. Demographic and experiential data were compared with risk propensity scores and attitudes toward risk compensation. Respondents were stratified into high-, medium-, and low-risk groupings based on risk propensity scores and whether an airbag was carried. RESULTS Thirty-two (22%) respondents carried an airbag. Airbag users were more likely to endorse risk compensation behavior, ski terrain over 30 degrees, and fall into the high-risk cohort. The high-risk cohort was also more likely to endorse risk compensation behavior than medium- and low-risk individuals. CONCLUSIONS Risk compensation was more prevalent in 2 groups: 1) those carrying an airbag and 2) those falling within the high-risk cohort. Given the prevalence of avalanche airbags, risk compensation should be considered alongside other human factors in avalanche safety and education so that users can mitigate these effects. Although risk compensation appears to be occurring, the magnitude of this effect remains unknown and likely does not obviate the safety benefits of the airbag altogether.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey P Lane
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT.
| | - Scott E McIntosh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah Health, Salt Lake City, UT
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Troeger W, Isser M, Lengerer T, Wiedermann FJ, Lederer W. Electromagnetic Interference from Heated Gloves May Compromise Avalanche Transceiver Function. Wilderness Environ Med 2022; 33:422-428. [PMID: 36210278 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2022.07.013] [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: 01/06/2022] [Revised: 07/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Rapid location of avalanche victims by companions using avalanche transceivers is of utmost importance to prevent asphyxiation. The objective was to determine whether electromagnetic interference from heating elements in gloves worn by rescuers or victims can impair the receiving or transmitting function of avalanche beacons. METHODS Commercially available heated gloves from 3 different manufacturers were examined during a simulated search with 3 common brands of avalanche transceivers. Distance to target beacon at first signal detection and accuracy of direction to target, as indicated by the arrow from the direction indicator, were evaluated. RESULTS Preliminary tests showed that transmitting and receiving signals are degraded by electromagnetic interference caused by rectangular pulses emitted by activated heating elements. Field tests revealed significantly reduced distances of first signal detection when heated gloves were turned on near receiving avalanche transceivers (P<0.001; Wilcoxon signed-rank test). Decreased distance to target beacon ranged between 1.9 m (5%) and 41.5 m (94%) at first detection, depending on the avalanche transceiver used. CONCLUSIONS Avalanche transceivers are susceptible to electromagnetic interference from gloves with electric heating elements. We do not recommend using heated gloves when performing a transceiver search for avalanche victims because it can lead to a delay in rescue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willi Troeger
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria; Austrian Mountain Rescue Service - Tyrol, Telfs, Austria.
| | - Markus Isser
- Austrian Mountain Rescue Service - Tyrol, Telfs, Austria
| | | | - Franz J Wiedermann
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Lederer
- Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria
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Di Stefano LL, Libera BD, Rodi P. Effectiveness and Use of Avalanche Airbags in Mortality Reduction among Winter-Recreationists. J Travel Med 2022:6812861. [PMID: 36349697 DOI: 10.1093/jtm/taac133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Revised: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE FOR REVIEW the number of backcountry skiers and snowboarder surged in the last years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as ski resorts shut down. Inevitably, this led to an increase in avalanche-related injuries and death. As avalanche rescue device, avalanche airbags are increasingly becoming part of the standard winter mountaineering equipment. This study provides a review of available data and an updated perspective on avalanche airbags, discussing their function and efficacy to reduce mortality and their limitations. KEY FINDINGS causes of death in individuals caught by avalanches are multiple. Airbags seem to reduce mortality by decreasing chances of critical burial, the most determining risk factor. However, there is scarcity of reliable scientific research on the topic, and the way in which airbags reduce mortality and to what extent is still debated. Several elements seem to influence airbags efficacy, and their use still yields several limitations linked to manufacturing, proper use, users education, and risk compensation. CONCLUSIONS/RECOMMENDATIONS avalanche airbags seem to be an important tool in reducing mortality in backcountry expeditions. However, more research and standardized data collection is needed to fill the knowledge gap, mountain communities should promote adequate education of winter-recreationists on how to prevent and react to an avalanche, and on the correct use of airbags in combination with already available tools such as transceivers, probes and shovels, and manufacturing companies should ensure higher efficacy of the survival avalanche equipment for better prevention of burial, asphyxia, and trauma.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Paolo Rodi
- General surgery resident, Department of Surgery, Campus Virchow-Klinikum and Campus Charité Mitte, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Augustenburger Platz 1, 13353 Berlin, Germany; European Master of Disaster Medicine candidate
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Avalanche Preparedness and Accident Analysis Among Backcountry Skier, Sidecountry, and Snowmobile Fatalities in the United States: 2009 to 2019. Wilderness Environ Med 2022; 33:197-203. [PMID: 35491311 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2022.03.006] [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: 06/01/2021] [Revised: 03/11/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While avalanche fatalities have remained relatively steady per year, data suggest a possible increase in sidecountry use and snowmobile fatalities. Limited information is known regarding the accident details and preparedness among different groups of backcountry users including snowmobiles, sidecountry, and backcountry skiers, and what specific factors could contribute to their fatalities. METHODS Avalanche fatality reports covering all US states posted by the Colorado Avalanche Information Center available online for 10 seasons (2009-2010 through 2018-2019 seasons) were analyzed for group size, specific equipment carried, burial depth, burial time, and other details. Only reports in the 3 following categories were included in the analysis: backcountry ski/snowboard, sidecountry ski/snowboard, and snowmobile/snowbike. These aspects were compared among the 3 tourer types using statistical analyses (ANOVA). RESULTS Two hundred and five fatalities were analyzed (n=32 sidecountry, n=91 skier/snowboard, n=82 snowmobile/snowbike). Using 2 preparedness scores, the ski/snowboard group had the greatest distribution of high scores when evaluated by equipment carried and group size, with significant differences per group (P<0.01). Of the fatalities that were buried, burial time was related to the tourer group (P=0.04), with the ski/snowboard group having the highest proportion of burials <15 min. Burial depth was significantly different among the 3 tourer groups, with snowmobiles buried the deepest on average (P<0.01). CONCLUSIONS Despite limited data available on fatalities, an analysis of preparedness suggests that backcountry skiers and snowboarders are more prepared for avalanche accidents compared to snowmobiles and sidecountry users when evaluated by equipment carried and group size.
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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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Fatalities associated with ski touring and freeriding: A retrospective analysis from 2001 to 2019. FORENSIC SCIENCE INTERNATIONAL: REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.fsir.2021.100239] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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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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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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Berlin C, Techel F, Moor BK, Zwahlen M, Hasler RM. Snow avalanche deaths in Switzerland from 1995 to 2014-Results of a nation-wide linkage study. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0225735. [PMID: 31794568 PMCID: PMC6890213 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0225735] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 11/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives More than 20 people die each year in snow avalanches in Switzerland. Previous studies have primarily described these victims, but were not population based. We investigated sociodemographic factors for avalanche mortality between 1995 and 2014 in the entire Swiss resident population. Design and methods Within the Swiss National Cohort we ascertained avalanche deaths by anonymous data linkage with the avalanche accident database at the Swiss WSL Institute of Snow and Avalanche Research SLF. We calculated incidence rates, by dividing the number of deaths from avalanches by the number of person-years, and hazard ratios (HRs) for sociodemographic and economic characteristics using Cox proportional hazard models. Results The data linkage yielded 250 deaths from avalanche within the SNC population for the 20 years 1995 to 2014. The median distance between the place of residence and the place of the event (avalanche) was 61.1 km. Male gender, younger age (15–45 years), Swiss nationality, living in the Alpine regions, higher education, living in the highest socioeconomic quintile of neighbourhoods, being single, and living in a household with one or more children were associated with higher avalanche mortality rates. Furthermore, for younger persons (<40 years) the hazard of dying in an avalanche between 2005 and 2014 was significantly lower than in the years 1995 to 2004 (HR = 0.56, 95%-CI: 0.36–0.85). Conclusion Over a 20-year period in Switzerland, higher rates of dying in an avalanche were observed in men, in younger age groups, and persons with tertiary education, living in the highest socioeconomic quintile of neighbourhoods, and living in an Alpine region. For younger persons (<40 years), the hazard declined during the study period.
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Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Berlin
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Frank Techel
- WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Davos, Switzerland
- University of Zürich, Department of Geography, Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Beat Kaspar Moor
- Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Traumatology, Hôpital du Valais, Martigny, Switzerland
| | - Marcel Zwahlen
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rebecca Maria Hasler
- Institute of Social and Preventive Medicine, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, University Hospital Bern, Bern, Switzerland
- Department of Trauma, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- * E-mail:
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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: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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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Brugger H, Bouzat P, Pasquier M, Mair P, Fieler J, Darocha T, Blancher M, de Riedmatten M, Falk M, Paal P, Strapazzon G, Zafren K, Brodmann Maeder M. Cut-off values of serum potassium and core temperature at hospital admission for extracorporeal rewarming of avalanche victims in cardiac arrest: A retrospective multi-centre study. Resuscitation 2019; 139:222-229. [PMID: 31022496 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2019.04.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2018] [Revised: 03/19/2019] [Accepted: 04/08/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
AIM Evidence of existing guidelines for the on-site triage of avalanche victims is limited and adherence suboptimal. This study attempted to find reliable cut-off values for the identification of hypothermic avalanche victims with reversible out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) at hospital admission. This may enable hospitals to allocate extracorporeal life support (ECLS) resources more appropriately while increasing the proportion of survivors among rewarmed victims. METHODS All avalanche victims with OHCA admitted to seven centres in Europe capable of ECLS from 1995 to 2016 were included. Optimal cut-off values, for parameters identified by logistic regression, were determined by means of bootstrapping and exact binomial distribution and served to calculate sensitivity, rate of overtriage, positive and negative predictive values, and receiver operating curves. RESULTS In total, 103 avalanche victims with OHCA were included. Of the 103 patients 61 (58%) were rewarmed by ECLS. Six (10%) of the rewarmed patients survived whilst 55 (90%) died. We obtained optimal cut-off values of 7 mmol/L for serum potassium and 30 °C for core temperature. CONCLUSION For in-hospital triage of avalanche victims admitted with OHCA, serum potassium accurately predicts survival. The combination of the cut-offs 7 mmol/L for serum potassium and 30 °C for core temperature achieved the lowest overtriage rate (47%) and the highest positive predictive value (19%), with a sensitivity of 100% for survivors. The presence of vital signs at extrication is strongly associated with survival. For further optimisation of in-hospital triage, larger datasets are needed to include additional parameters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hermann Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC research, Drususallee 1, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; Medical University Innsbruck, Austria; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM.
| | - Pierre Bouzat
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care, Grenoble Alps Trauma Center, University Hospital of Grenoble- Alpes, 38043 Grenoble Cedex 09, France.
| | - Mathieu Pasquier
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Emergency Service, Lausanne University Hospital Center, BH 09, CHUV, CH-1011 Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Peter Mair
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical Care Medicine, Medical University Innsbruck, Anichstraße 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria.
| | - Julia Fieler
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Division of Surgical Medicine and Intensive Care, University hospital of North Norway, Tromsø, Norway; Anaesthesia and critical care research group, The Artic University of Norway, 9037 Tromsø, Norway.
| | - Tomasz Darocha
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Medical University of Silesia, Medykow 14, 40-752 Katowice, Poland.
| | - Marc Blancher
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Department of Emergency Medicine, University Hospital of Grenoble-Alpes, France; French Mountain Rescue Association ANMSM, 38043 Grenoble Cedex 09, France.
| | | | - Markus Falk
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC research, Drususallee 1, 39100 Bolzano, Italy.
| | - Peter Paal
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care, Hospitallers Brothers Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University, Kajetanerplatz 1, 5020 Salzburg, Austria.
| | - Giacomo Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC research, Drususallee 1, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM.
| | - Ken Zafren
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Department of Emergency Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA.
| | - Monika Brodmann Maeder
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, EURAC research, Drususallee 1, 39100 Bolzano, Italy; Department of Emergency Medicine, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Freiburgstrasse 16C, 3010 Bern, Switzerland.
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Lunde A, Tellefsen C. Patient and rescuer safety: recommendations for dispatch and prioritization of rescue resources based on a retrospective study of Norwegian avalanche incidents 1996-2017. Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med 2019; 27:5. [PMID: 30642369 PMCID: PMC6332597 DOI: 10.1186/s13049-019-0585-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2018] [Accepted: 01/03/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Avalanche emergency response should address current accident scenarios to optimize survival chances of victims and to keep rescuers safe. The purpose of this article is to present a basis for evaluation and necessary adjustments in dispatch, prioritization, and management of Norwegian avalanche rescue operations. METHODS This is the first peer-reviewed retrospective study of all Norwegian avalanche incidents registered by the two Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centers (JRCCs) in the period 1996-2017 that describes the characteristics and trends of rescue missions and victims. RESULTS The Norwegian JRCCs have registered 720 snow avalanche events, with a total of 568 avalanche victims, of which 120 (21%) died. Including those fatally injured, a total of 313 avalanche victims in 209 accidents were treated as patients (55%), and we saw > 1 patient in 24% of these operations. Norwegian avalanche victims were partially or completely recovered prior to the arrival of rescuers in 75% (n = 117) of all rescue operations. In the remaining 25% of cases, the rescue service located 62% (n = 55) of the avalanche victims visually or electronically. In 50% of the 720 incidents, rescuers spent time searching in avalanches with no victims. CONCLUSIONS This survey indicates that we have experienced a shift in Norwegian avalanche rescue: from search for missing persons in the avalanche debris to immediate medical care of already-located patients. The findings suggest that a stronger focus on both patient and rescuer safety is necessary. The patients must be ensured the right treatment at the right place at the right time and the allocation of rescue resources must reflect a need to reduce exposure in avalanche terrain, especially in cases with no affirmed victims. We present a flowchart with a recommended rescue response to avalanche accidents in Norway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Lunde
- University of Stavanger, 4036, Stavanger, Norway.
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15
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Nichols TB, Hawley AC, Smith WR, Wheeler AR, McIntosh SE. Avalanche Safety Practices Among Backcountry Skiers and Snowboarders in Jackson Hole in 2016. Wilderness Environ Med 2018; 29:493-498. [PMID: 30213711 DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2018.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 04/11/2018] [Accepted: 05/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Carrying standard safety gear (beacon, probe, and shovel), planning a route of descent, and recreating with companions can help to mitigate the risk of injury or death resulting from avalanches in the backcountry. The goal of this study was to identify factors associated with performance of these safety practices. METHODS A convenience sample of backcountry skiers and snowboarders was surveyed in 2016 at the backcountry gates of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. Each participant was surveyed on characteristics including skill level, sex, age, prior avalanche education, and residency in the Jackson Hole area. Safety practices were also measured against avalanche hazard forecasts. Correlations were assessed using Fisher's exact testing. RESULTS A total of 334 participants were surveyed. Factors associated with carrying avalanche safety gear included higher expertise, being a resident of the Jackson Hole area, and prior avalanche education. Factors associated with having a planned route of descent included higher expertise and being a resident of the Jackson Hole area. Factors associated with recreating with companions included younger age and lower expertise. Sex had no association with any of the surveyed safety practices. Participants were less likely to carry avalanche safety gear on low avalanche hazard days. CONCLUSIONS Certain individual characteristics of backcountry skiers and snowboarders are associated with increased frequency of adherence to recommended safety practices. These findings suggest that particular categories of backcountry recreationists may benefit from further avalanche safety education. The results of this study could help direct future educational efforts among backcountry recreationists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ty B Nichols
- Department of Emergency Medicine, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC and; Division of Emergency Medicine, TeamHealth, West Region, Emergency Professionals of Colorado, Greeley, CO (Dr Nichols)
| | - Alana C Hawley
- Division of Emergency Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton General Hospital, Hamilton, Ontario (Dr Hawley); Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs Hawley, Wheeler, and McIntosh)
| | - William R Smith
- St. John's Medical Center, Jackson, WY (Drs Wheeler and Smith); Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine, Seattle, WA (Dr Smith)
| | - Albert R Wheeler
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs Hawley, Wheeler, and McIntosh); St. John's Medical Center, Jackson, WY (Drs Wheeler and Smith).
| | - Scott E McIntosh
- Division of Emergency Medicine, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT (Drs Hawley, Wheeler, and McIntosh)
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Haye L, Boutroy E, Soulé B. Efficacité de l’airbag d’avalanche face au risque d’ensevelissement : revue de littérature (1996–2016). Sci Sports 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.scispo.2017.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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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: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [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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A Convolutional Neural Network Approach for Assisting Avalanche Search and Rescue Operations with UAV Imagery. REMOTE SENSING 2017. [DOI: 10.3390/rs9020100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
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Grasegger K, Strapazzon G, Procter E, Brugger H, Soteras I. Avalanche Survival After Rescue With the RECCO Rescue System: A Case Report. Wilderness Environ Med 2016; 27:282-6. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2016.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2015] [Revised: 02/09/2016] [Accepted: 02/11/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
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20
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Ng P, Smith WR, Wheeler A, McIntosh SE. Advanced Avalanche Safety Equipment of Backcountry Users: Current Trends and Perceptions. Wilderness Environ Med 2015; 26:417-21. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2015.03.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2014] [Revised: 02/02/2015] [Accepted: 03/20/2015] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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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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Haegeli P, Falk M, Procter E, Zweifel B, Jarry F, Logan S, Kronholm K, Biskupič M, Brugger H. The effectiveness of avalanche airbags. Resuscitation 2014; 85:1197-203. [PMID: 24909367 DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2014.05.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2014] [Revised: 05/15/2014] [Accepted: 05/21/2014] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
AIM Asphyxia is the primary cause of death among avalanche victims. Avalanche airbags can lower mortality by directly reducing grade of burial, the single most important factor for survival. This study aims to provide an updated perspective on the effectiveness of this safety device. METHODS A retrospective analysis of avalanche accidents involving at least one airbag user between 1994 and 2012 in Austria, Canada, France, Norway, Slovakia, Switzerland and the United States. A multivariate analysis was used to calculate adjusted absolute risk reduction and estimate the effectiveness of airbags on grade of burial and mortality. A univariate analysis was used to examine causes of non-deployment. RESULTS Binomial linear regression models showed main effects for airbag use, avalanche size and injuries on critical burial, and for grade of burial, injuries and avalanche size on mortality. The adjusted risk of critical burial is 47% with non-inflated airbags and 20% with inflated airbags. The adjusted mortality is 44% for critically buried victims and 3% for non-critically buried victims. The adjusted absolute mortality reduction for inflated airbags is -11 percentage points (22% to 11%; 95% confidence interval: -4 to -18 percentage points) and adjusted risk ratio is 0.51 (95% confidence interval: 0.29 to 0.72). Overall non-inflation rate is 20%, 60% of which is attributed to deployment failure by the user. CONCLUSION Although the impact on survival is smaller than previously reported, these results confirm the effectiveness of airbags. Non-deployment remains the most considerable limitation to effectiveness. Development of standardized data collection protocols is encouraged to facilitate further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pascal Haegeli
- Avisualanche Consulting, 2-250 E 15th Avenue, Vancouver, BC, V5T 2P9, Canada; School for Resource and Environmental Management, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC, V5A 1S6, Canada.
| | - Markus Falk
- Inova Q Inc., Tinkhauserstrasse 5b, 39031 Bruneck/Brunico, Italy
| | - Emily Procter
- EURAC Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Drususallee 1, 39100 Bozen/Bolzano, Italy
| | - Benjamin Zweifel
- WSL Institute for Snow and Avalanche Research SLF, Flüelastrasse 11, 7260 Davos, Switzerland
| | - Frédéric Jarry
- National Association for Snow and Avalanche Studies (ANENA), 15 rue Ernest Calvat, 38000 Grenoble, France
| | - Spencer Logan
- Colorado Avalanche Information Center, 325 Broadway WS1, Boulder, CO 80305, USA
| | - Kalle Kronholm
- Norwegian Geotechnical Institute (NGI), Sognsveien 72, N-0855 Oslo, Norway
| | - Marek Biskupič
- Avalanche Prevention Center, Jasná, 032 51 Demänovská Dolina, Slovakia; Institute for Environmental Studies, Charles University, Ovocný trh 3-5, 116 36 Praha 1, Czech Republic
| | - Hermann Brugger
- EURAC Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine, Drususallee 1, 39100 Bozen/Bolzano, Italy
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Procter E, Strapazzon G, Dal Cappello T, Castlunger L, Staffler HP, Brugger H. Adherence of backcountry winter recreationists to avalanche prevention and safety practices in northern Italy. Scand J Med Sci Sports 2013; 24:823-9. [DOI: 10.1111/sms.12094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/28/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- E. Procter
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine; EURAC research; Bolzano Italy
| | - G. Strapazzon
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine; EURAC research; Bolzano Italy
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Bolzano Italy
| | - T. Dal Cappello
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine; EURAC research; Bolzano Italy
| | - L. Castlunger
- Institute of Statistics; Autonomous Province of Bolzano; Bolzano Italy
| | - H. P. Staffler
- Department of Fire and Civil Protection; Autonomous Province of Bolzano; Bolzano Italy
| | - H. Brugger
- Institute of Mountain Emergency Medicine; EURAC research; Bolzano Italy
- International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine ICAR MEDCOM; Bolzano Italy
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DORENKAMP MARC, BLASCHKE FLORIAN, VOIGT KATHLEEN, FLECK ECKART, GOETZE STEPHAN, ROSER MATTIAS. Electromagnetic Interference of Avalanche Transceivers with Cardiac Pacemakers and Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillators. PACING AND CLINICAL ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY: PACE 2013; 36:931-8. [DOI: 10.1111/pace.12159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2012] [Revised: 02/17/2013] [Accepted: 02/25/2013] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- MARC DORENKAMP
- Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Campus Virchow-Klinikum; Berlin; Germany
| | - FLORIAN BLASCHKE
- Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Campus Virchow-Klinikum; Berlin; Germany
| | - KATHLEEN VOIGT
- Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Campus Virchow-Klinikum; Berlin; Germany
| | - ECKART FLECK
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology; German Heart Institute Berlin; Berlin; Germany
| | - STEPHAN GOETZE
- Department of Internal Medicine/Cardiology; German Heart Institute Berlin; Berlin; Germany
| | - MATTIAS ROSER
- Department of Cardiology, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Campus Virchow-Klinikum; Berlin; Germany
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Kordi R, Rostami M, Heidari P, Ameli S, Foroughifard L, Kordi M. Fatalities Among Iranian High-altitude Outdoor Enthusiasts: Causes and Mechanisms. Asian J Sports Med 2013; 3:285-90. [PMID: 23342228 PMCID: PMC3525826 DOI: 10.5812/asjsm.34553] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2012] [Accepted: 09/16/2012] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose This study was performed to determine the possible causes and mechanisms of fatalities among Iranian mountaineers during climbing. Methods By contacting several sources, deceased mountaineers were identified. Data about the causes and mechanism of death was retrospectively obtained using a standard questionnaire for each case. Results A total of 29 deaths were identified from March 2006 to June 2010. Deceased subjects had a mean age of 39 years (SD: 12.8, Range: 20-67). Falling was the most common accident leading to death of outdoor enthusiasts (n = 14, 48%). Asphyxia (n = 6, 24%) was the most common cause of death among the subjects, followed by heart attack, internal bleeding, cerebral hemorrhage and hypothermia (17%, 17%, 17% and 10%, respectively). Conclusions Our findings suggest that education of medical service providers of the climbing groups on facing victims in high altitude areas, where they have limited resources, can be particularly helpful. In addition, a national program to educate mountaineers might help to reduce fatalities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Kordi
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mohsen Rostami
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Pedram Heidari
- Center for Translational Nuclear Medicine and Molecular Imaging, Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, USA
| | - Sanaz Ameli
- Noorafshar Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine Hospital, Tehran, Iran
| | - Lotfali Foroughifard
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahboobeh Kordi
- Sports Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Address: Sport Medicine Research Center, No 7, Al-e-Ahmad Highway, Tehran, P.O Box: 14395-578, IR Iran.
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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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Affiliation(s)
- Colin K Grissom
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, Intermountain Medical Center, Murray, Utah, USA.
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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: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.9] [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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Bogle L, Boyd J, McLaughlin K. In Reply to Avalanche Triage. Wilderness Environ Med 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.wem.2010.05.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Boyd J, Haegeli P, Abu-Laban RB, Shuster M, Butt JC. Patterns of death among avalanche fatalities: a 21-year review. CMAJ 2009; 180:507-12. [PMID: 19213801 PMCID: PMC2645441 DOI: 10.1503/cmaj.081327] [Citation(s) in RCA: 80] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Avalanches are a significant cause of winter recreational fatalities in mountain regions. The purpose of this study was to determine the relative contributions of trauma and asphyxia to avalanche deaths. METHODS We reviewed all avalanche fatalities between 1984 and 2005 that had been investigated by the offices of the British Columbia Coroners Service and the Chief Medical Examiner of Alberta. In addition, we searched the database of the Canadian Avalanche Centre for fatal avalanche details. We calculated injury severity scores for all victims who underwent autopsy. RESULTS There were 204 avalanche fatalities with mortality information over the 21-year study period. Of these, 117 victims underwent autopsy, and 87 underwent forensic external examination. Asphyxia caused 154 (75%) deaths. Trauma caused 48 (24%) deaths, with the rate of death from trauma ranging from 9% (4/44) for snowmobilers to 42% (5/12) for ice climbers. In addition, 13% (12/92) of the asphyxia victims who underwent autopsy had major trauma, defined as an injury severity score of greater than 15. Only 48% (23/48) of victims for whom trauma was the primary cause of death had been completely buried. INTERPRETATION Asphyxia and severe trauma caused most avalanche fatalities in western Canada. The relative rates differed between snowmobilers and those engaged in other mountain activities. Our findings should guide recommendations for safety devices, safety measures and resuscitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Boyd
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Mineral Springs Hospital, Banff, Alberta
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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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In this issue. Resuscitation 2007. [DOI: 10.1016/j.resuscitation.2007.10.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
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