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Cold weather injuries in an arctic environment
D J Schissel1, D L Barney, R Keller
1Department of Dermatology, Brooke Army Medical Center, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, USA.
Military Medicine
|August 26, 1998
Summary
Eight Special Forces soldiers experienced cold weather injuries during Arctic training. Early identification and treatment are crucial to prevent mission compromise and long-term disability, emphasizing the need for education and precautions.
Area of Science:
- Military Medicine
- Environmental Health
- Trauma Surgery
Background:
- Cold weather injuries pose significant risks to soldiers during training in extreme environments.
- These injuries can lead to immediate mission compromise and long-term health consequences, affecting deployability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report on cases of cold weather-related injuries sustained by Special Forces soldiers during Arctic training.
- To highlight the challenges in diagnosing and treating environmental injuries in field settings.
Main Methods:
- Case report analysis of eight Special Forces soldiers.
- Review of injuries sustained during Operation Arctic Saber in the Northwest Territories and Arctic Circle.
Main Results:
- Eight soldiers sustained cold weather-related injuries.
- Delayed identification and treatment can exacerbate injury severity and impact mission success.
Conclusions:
- Cold weather injuries present diagnostic and treatment challenges in austere environments.
- Appropriate education and safety measures are vital to minimize risks associated with cold weather operations.