New technique could save soldiers’ limbs

A NEW technique which could help save soldiers’ limbs after battlefield injuries has been pioneered in Glasgow.

Described as a “life-support system for the limb” it aims to give doctors precious time to attempt to repair damage and reduce amputations.

The technique has been developed by researchers at the University of Strathclyde in Glas- gow. in response to the experiences of military personnel in Iraq and Afghanistan, where Improvised Explosive Devices caused traumatic injury.

The three-stage approach brings together kit that can be used in the field, with highly-specialised solutions once the patient is evacuated to a hospital.

The first stage of the treatment sees a novel tourniquet applied to the limb, which applies pressure at different points, reducing pressure and damage to specific areas. A cooling “sock” is then wrapped around the tissue, to preserve it from further damage until the casualty can be evacuated to a care facility.

Once at a hospital, the limb is then placed inside a protective “box”, which can sustain the area while doctors attempt repairs. The box has specially de- contaminated air to reduce infection, and continually supplies the affected area with blood.

Following successful trials, the system is set to be available commercially.

Professor Terry Gourlay, head of the department of Biomedical Engineering at Strathclyde University, said: “The system gives doctors precious time to attempt to repair damage while ensuring the safety of the patient.”