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Wilderness Medicine Updates

Ep. 12 - Resuscitation of the Buried Avalanche Victim, Part 1: Physiology

Jan 26, 2024
Dive into the chilling physiology behind resuscitating avalanche victims. Understand how burial time and core temperature impact survival chances. Explore the stark realities of cardiac arrest from trauma versus hypoxia. Discover why CPR training is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and the intricate challenges of reviving those trapped under snow. Learn about the importance of assessing a victim's condition and the surprising role of potassium in treating severe hypothermia. Get ready for a complex yet crucial discussion on wilderness medicine!
18:36

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Quick takeaways

  • Understanding the physiology of an avalanche victim is crucial, as trauma, hypothermia, and asphyxia are primary causes of cardiac arrest.
  • Resuscitation efforts should focus on the victim's burial time and airway status, with specific protocols guiding interventions based on these factors.

Deep dives

Understanding Avalanche Physiology

The fundamental physiology of an avalanche victim's body is essential for understanding resuscitation strategies. During an avalanche, three primary causes can lead to cardiac arrest: trauma, hypothermia, and asphyxia. Trauma may damage the heart directly or cause significant bleeding, leading to insufficient blood circulation, while hypoxia arises when the airway is blocked, preventing oxygen intake. Asphyxia underlines the importance of recognizing the victim's burial state, as those with occluded airways face imminent death, while those with some airflow may survive longer depending on their available air pocket.

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