Related Experiment Videos
Performance of advanced trauma life support procedures in microgravity
Mark R Campbell1, Roger D Billica, Smith L Johnston
1NASA Medical Operations, Johnson Space Center and Wyle Laboratories, Houston, TX, USA. mcamp@1starnet.com
Aviation, Space, and Environmental Medicine
|September 18, 2002
Summary
Advanced trauma life support (ATLS) procedures are mostly feasible in microgravity, with modifications needed for surgical drainage and restraint. Peritoneal lavage poses a high risk, highlighting the need for specialized equipment and techniques for space medicine.
Area of Science:
- Space Medicine
- Emergency Medicine
- Surgical Procedures
Background:
- International Space Station medical operations require advanced trauma life support (ATLS) capabilities.
- Focus on stabilization and transport of critically injured personnel in space.
Purpose of the Study:
- Evaluate the feasibility of ATLS invasive procedures in microgravity.
- Test specific procedures using a porcine model during parabolic flight.
Main Methods:
- Simulated microgravity using parabolic flight with a porcine model.
- Evaluated: ventilation, IV infusion, laceration closure, tracheostomy, Foley catheter, chest tube insertion, peritoneal lavage, and telemedicine.
- Utilized specialized equipment for drainage and atmospheric containment.
Main Results:
- Most procedures (ventilation, IV, laceration repair, tracheostomy, Foley catheter) were successful.
- Chest tube insertion and drainage were feasible with patient/operator restraint.
- Telemedicine proved useful for procedural guidance.
- Percutaneous peritoneal lavage was deemed high-risk due to potential bowel perforation.
Conclusions:
- ATLS procedures are largely feasible in microgravity, except for diagnostic peritoneal lavage.
- Minor equipment and technique modifications are necessary for surgical drainage and restraint.
- Developed a parabolic simulation system for future research and crew training.