The Basics: Far Forward Surgery

In this podcast episode, Jay Baker discusses the topic of SOF surgical support in Special Operations Forces (SOF). He compares the different types of missions that soft surgical teams might be called upon to support and describes the gap that exists in institutional experience for surgical support in the setting of unconventional warfare. Baker highlights the lessons learned from surgical support in World War II and emphasizes the need to prepare for providing surgical support in more challenging environments. He also discusses the efforts being made to improve soft surgical support, including the development of RSOF surgical teams and the Prolonged Field Care initiative.

Takeaways

Sof surgical support in Special Operations Forces (SOF) is an evolving problem set that requires preparation for providing surgical support in more challenging environments.

Lessons can be learned from surgical support in World War II, where surgeons provided care in dangerous and challenging environments.

Efforts are being made to improve soft surgical support, including the development of RSOF surgical teams and the Prolonged Field Care initiative.

Training and experience in caring for critical patients over longer periods of time, performing tactical evacuations, and developing innovative solutions to resupply challenges are important for soft surgical teams.