Rescue Lifting System (RLS) Might Help to Prevent Death After Rescue from Immersion in Cold Water

Jd, Rollnik; Witt, Karolina D; Hänert, W.; Rix, W.; Schwindt, M.

doi:10.1055/s-2001-11361

Cited by 9 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 8 publications

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“…When hanging in a belt (without leg loops) or in a chest harness alone, very severe pain, pressure paralysis of the brachial nerves and a marked decrease in cardiopulmonary parameters due to restricted chest and diaphragm motion can occur rapidly and was associated with a higher incidence of suspension syndrome compared to today. [ 24 – 26 , 29 ]. These types of attachment are therefore considered obsolete and must be distinguished from the suspension syndrome in modern sit harnesses, which became increasingly widespread from the early 1970s onwards.…”

Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

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Suspension syndrome: a scoping review and recommendations from the International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MEDCOM)

Rauch,

Lechner,

Strapazzon

et al. 2023

Scand J Trauma Resusc Emerg Med

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Background Suspension syndrome describes a multifactorial cardio-circulatory collapse during passive hanging on a rope or in a harness system in a vertical or near-vertical position. The pathophysiology is still debated controversially. Aims The International Commission for Mountain Emergency Medicine (ICAR MedCom) performed a scoping review to identify all articles with original epidemiological and medical data to understand the pathophysiology of suspension syndrome and develop updated recommendations for the definition, prevention, and management of suspension syndrome. Methods A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science and the Cochrane library. The bibliographies of the eligible articles for this review were additionally screened. Results The online literature search yielded 210 articles, scanning of the references yielded another 30 articles. Finally, 23 articles were included into this work. Conclusions Suspension Syndrome is a rare entity. A neurocardiogenic reflex may lead to bradycardia, arterial hypotension, loss of consciousness and cardiac arrest. Concomitant causes, such as pain from being suspended, traumatic injuries and accidental hypothermia may contribute to the development of the Suspension Syndrome. Preventive factors include using a well-fitting sit harness, which does not cause discomfort while being suspended, and activating the muscle pump of the legs. Expediting help to extricate the suspended person is key. In a peri-arrest situation, the person should be positioned supine and standard advanced life support should be initiated immediately. Reversible causes of cardiac arrest caused or aggravated by suspension syndrome, e.g., hyperkalaemia, pulmonary embolism, hypoxia, and hypothermia, should be considered. In the hospital, blood and further exams should assess organ injuries caused by suspension syndrome.

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Section: Resultsmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Suspended persons should be encouraged to continue moving the legs. Alternatively, a strap or sling under the knees may be used to raise up the legs closer to heart level [ 27 , 29 , 31 ]. Alternatively, the legs may be lifted by a rescuer.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%