Citation

Blancher M, Albasini F, Elsensohn F, Zafren K, Hölzl N, McLaughlin K, Wheeler AR, Roy S, Brugger H, Greene M, Paal P. High Alt. Med. Biol. 2018; 19(2): 131-140.

Affiliation

Department of Anesthesiology and Intensive Care, Hospitallers Brothers Hospital, Paracelsus Medical University , Salzburg, Austria .

Copyright

(Copyright © 2018, Mary Ann Liebert Publishers)

DOI

10.1089/ham.2017.0143

PMID

29446647

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Multi-Casualty Incidents (MCI) occur in mountain areas. Little is known about the incidence and character of such events, and the kind of rescue response. Therefore, the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM) set out to provide recommendations for the management of MCI in mountain areas.

MATERIALS AND METHODS: Details of MCI occurring in mountain areas related to mountaineering activities and involving organized mountain rescue were collected. A literature search using (1) PubMed, (2) national mountain rescue registries, and (3) lay press articles on the internet was performed. The results were analyzed with respect to specific aspects of mountain rescue.

RESULTS: We identified 198 MCIs that have occurred in mountain areas since 1956: 137 avalanches, 38 ski lift accidents, and 23 other events, including lightning injuries, landslides, volcanic eruptions, lost groups of people, and water-related accidents.

DISCUSSION: General knowledge on MCI management is required. Due to specific aspects of triage and management, the approach to MCIs may differ between those in mountain areas and those in urban settings.

CONCLUSIONS: Mountain rescue teams should be prepared to manage MCIs. Knowledge should be reviewed and training performed regularly. Cooperation between terrestrial rescue services, avalanche safety authorities, and helicopter crews is critical to successful management of MCIs in mountain areas.

Language: en

Keywords

avalanche; emergency medicine; lightning; mountain rescue; multi-casualty incidents; wilderness medicine