Orthopedic experience in a MASH unit in postwar Iraq
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Published on: July 15, 2009
W L Johnson1, C J O'Hearn, J J Dobner
1Orthopaedic Surgery Service, Ireland Army Community Hospital, Fort Knox, Ky 40121.
Abstract:
The orthopedic experience of a U.S. Army MASH unit deployed in southern Iraq is discussed. Seventy major casualties were surgically treated in a short time span. A high percentage of extremity trauma was observed (69%). Many patients had multiple extremity involvement. The emergency wartime surgical treatment of four specific types of trauma is explored. A new algorithm is presented for the rapid evaluation of penetrating joint injuries. We summarize the current concepts of war surgery as they apply to orthopedic injuries, and add specific observations from this experience.
