The Scottish mountain rescue casualty study

To describe injuries and illnesses in casualties rescued by Scottish mountain rescue teams during 1998 and 1999, with particular emphasis on major trauma.

Retrospective study. Information from mountain rescue reports, Scottish Trauma Audit Group database, and hospital case notes.

Teams undertook 622 emergency callouts in the two years. A total of 333 casualties with injuries and illnesses rescued. There were 57 fatal incidents, 261 (78.4%) rescued with traumatic injuries, 12 (3.6%) suffering from major trauma, and 12 (3.6%) had spinal injuries. Half had lower limb injuries. Twenty six (7.7%) were suffering from non-traumatic medical problems. Forty six (13.8%) were suffering from cold or exhaustion. Fifty three casualties were dead when the rescue team arrived. Four died during or after rescue, one from hypothermia and three from trauma. All major trauma casualties were evacuated by helicopter.

No previous similar studies identified. Significant numbers of seriously injured and ill casualties are being cared for by mountain rescue team casualty carers, many of whom are not healthcare professionals. The need for improved training, research, and equipment is discussed.

Scottish MRTs are called upon to provide an advanced level of care for a significant number of casualties. There is a need for formalised opportunities for in hospital training, management protocols, and continuing research and audit-none of which currently exists.