The impact of in-service physical injury or illness on the mental health of military veterans

An overview of stem cells and cell products involved in trauma injury

Trauma injuries represent a significant public health burden worldwide, often leading to long-term disability and reduced quality of life. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the therapeutic potential of stem cells and cell products for traumatic injuries. The extraordinary characteristics of stem cells, such as self-renewal and transdifferentiation, make them definitive candidates for tissue regeneration. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), neural stem cells (NSCs), and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) have been tested in preclinical studies for treating distinct traumatic injuries. Stem cell mechanisms of action are addressed through paracrine signaling, immunomodulation, differentiation, and neuroprotection. Cell products such as conditioned media, exosomes, and secretomes offer cell-free resources, thereby avoiding the risks of live cell transplantation. Clinical trials have reported many effective outcomes; however, variability exists across trauma types. Some challenges include tumorigenicity, standardized protocols, and regulatory issues. Collaboration and interdisciplinary research are being conducted to harness stem cells and products for trauma treatment. This emerging field is promising for improving patient recovery and quality of life after traumatic injuries.

Considering the psychological experience of amputation and rehabilitation for military veterans: a systematic review and metasynthesis of qualitative research

PURPOSE

Research highlights the differences and unique experiences of military veterans experiencing amputation compared to civilians. This review aimed to synthesise qualitative research exploring the experience of amputation and rehabilitation among existing or previous members of the military.

METHODS

A systematic search of six databases (PsycINFO, AMED, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science and Scopus) was undertaken in March 2022. The results of 17 papers reporting 12 studies published between 2009 and 2022 were synthesised using a meta-ethnographic approach to generate new interpretations reflecting the experiences of members of the military who have experienced limb loss.

RESULTS

Three themes were developed from the data: (1) Making the physical and psychological transition to life after amputation; (2) The role of the military culture in rehabilitation; and (3) The impact of relationships and the gaze of others during rehabilitation and beyond.

CONCLUSIONS

Military veterans with limb loss experience difficulties in navigating civilian healthcare systems and gaining appropriate support away from the military. Rehabilitation professionals, with psychological training or mentoring, involved in the care of military veterans following amputation could offer psychological support during the transition to civilian life and targeted therapies to veterans experiencing high levels of pain, and facilitate peer support programmes.