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Secondary Spinal Cord Injury llI: Pathophysiology01:25

Secondary Spinal Cord Injury llI: Pathophysiology

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Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology01:14

Spinal Cord Injury ll: Pathophysiology

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Minimally Invasive Treatment for Thoracolumbar Burst Fracture Using Sagittal Alignment Screws and A Trauma Reduction Device
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Published on: November 8, 2024

Clinical update: suspension trauma.

Mathieu Pasquier1, Bertrand Yersin, Laurent Vallotton

  • 1Emergency Service, University Hospital of Lausanne, University Hospital Center (CHUV), Lausanne, Switzerland. Mathieu.Pasquier@chuv.ch

Wilderness & Environmental Medicine
|March 23, 2011
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Suspension trauma, or harness-induced pathology, can cause loss of consciousness. Avoid chest harnesses and never work alone when using harness systems to prevent this serious condition.

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Published on: January 28, 2012

Area of Science:

  • Emergency Medicine
  • Occupational Health
  • Sports Safety

Background:

  • Suspension trauma is a serious condition resulting from prolonged motionless vertical suspension.
  • It affects individuals in sports and occupations utilizing harness systems, such as helicopter rescue and high-wire work.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing scientific evidence on suspension trauma.
  • To provide recommendations for improved prevention and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

  • A comprehensive literature search was conducted using Medline, PreMedline, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar.
  • The review focused on published data regarding the pathophysiology and treatment of suspension trauma.

Main Results:

  • Data on suspension trauma is limited, primarily consisting of case reports and few prospective studies.
  • Pathophysiology involves hypovolemia from reduced venous return and vagal stimulation, influenced by harness type.
  • Chest harnesses pose the highest risk, leading to cardiorespiratory issues and reduced suspension tolerance; symptoms include presyncope and loss of consciousness.

Conclusions:

  • Individuals using harness systems should not work alone and must avoid simple chest harnesses.
  • Prompt removal from suspension is crucial for victims experiencing presyncope or unconsciousness.
  • No evidence supports a significant risk of death upon returning to a horizontal position.