Forward surgery on Operation Telic--Iraq 2003

Area of Science:

• Military Medicine
• Surgical Operations
• Trauma Care

Background:

• Two Air Assault Surgical Groups (AASGs) deployed to Kuwait in February 2003 as part of Operation Telic.
• Each AASG comprised a resuscitation facility, a forward surgical team (FST), and an intensive therapy unit (ITU).
• Medical personnel included consultants, surgeons, anaesthetists, nurses, radiographers, and technicians.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report on the surgical procedures undertaken by AASGs during Operation Telic.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of forward military surgical capabilities in a modern operational environment.
• To highlight the successful application of novel treatments, such as activated factor VII, in combat trauma.

Main Methods:

• Deployment of two AASGs, each equipped with advanced surgical and diagnostic tools, including X-ray, ultrasound, and laboratory analysis.
• Provision of comprehensive surgical support, including resuscitation, forward surgical intervention, and intensive care.
• Detailed recording of all surgical procedures performed and patient demographics.

Main Results:

• A total of 51 surgical procedures were performed on 31 patients, including Iraqi prisoners of war and civilians.
• Major cases included wound debridements, amputations, laparotomies, femoral fracture fixation, and vascular repair.
• Successful resuscitation using activated factor VII for a patient with severe pelvic fracture and exsanguinating hemorrhage was documented.

Conclusions:

• Forward military surgery remains essential on the modern battlefield, supporting expeditionary operations and special forces.
• The experience gained during Operation Telic provides valuable insights for future military medical planning and deployment.
• The capabilities of AASGs are crucial for managing complex trauma in deployed settings.