Survival in a Collapsed Stable for 37 Days After Avalanche Burial in 1755

Area of Science:

• Avalanche survival
• Trauma medicine
• Human resilience

Background:

• Avalanche incidents can lead to prolonged burial.
• Survival depends on environmental factors and resource availability.
• Limited data exists on the long-term physiological and psychological effects of avalanche survival.

Purpose of the Study:

• To document the longest known survival case in an avalanche burial.
• To analyze the medical and psychological sequelae in survivors.
• To compare this case with other long-duration burial incidents.

Main Methods:

• Case study of a 1755 avalanche burial in Bergemoletto, Italy.
• Analysis of survivor nutrition (goat milk, chestnuts, kid meat, meltwater).
• Description of medical conditions and psychological impact post-rescue.

Main Results:

• Three of four individuals survived 37 days of burial.
• Survivors exhibited severe malnutrition, weakness, sensory changes, and amenorrhea.
• One survivor developed persistent eye issues and post-traumatic stress disorder symptoms.
• Recovery involved slow refeeding, with ambulation taking 1-6 weeks.

Conclusions:

• This case represents the longest documented survival after avalanche burial.
• Prolonged burial leads to significant medical and psychological challenges.
• Human survival is possible under extreme adverse conditions, emphasizing resilience.