3D-Printed Tourniquets Used at the Battlefront in Ukraine: A Pilot Study

Area of Science:

• Medical Devices
• Trauma Care
• 3D Printing Technology

Background:

• The ongoing conflict in Ukraine highlighted the urgent need for rapid tourniquet delivery and resupply to front-line forces.
• Local production of tourniquets near the battlefield emerged as a practical solution for logistical and cost efficiencies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the performance of a locally produced, 3D-printed tourniquet (Ukrainian model) against established commercial tourniquets.
• To determine the pressure-holding capacity of the Ukrainian model over a two-hour period.

Main Methods:

• The Ukrainian 3D-printed tourniquet was compared to commercially available tourniquets recommended by the Committee of Tactical Combat Casualty Care (CoTCCC), specifically the C-A-T™ and SOF™TT-W.
• Pressure retention capabilities of each tourniquet were assessed over a duration of up to two hours.

Main Results:

• Statistical analysis (Kruskal-Wallis test) indicated significant differences in performance between the tested tourniquets (p<.05).
• Post-hoc analysis revealed a significant difference in pressure retention between the C-A-T™ and the Ukrainian model (p=.004).
• No significant difference was observed between the SOF™TT-W Wide and the Ukrainian model (p=.08), suggesting comparable performance.

Conclusions:

• The study concluded that the 3D-printed Ukrainian tourniquets effectively maintain pressure, performing comparably to commercially available alternatives.
• These findings support the viability of 3D-printed tourniquets for battlefield use, emphasizing the importance of local production for self-sufficiency, cost-effectiveness, and logistical advantages during wartime.