Prolonged Field Care Podcast

Dennis

This podcast and website is dedicated to the healthcare professional who needs to provide high quality care in a very austere location. For more content: www.prolongedfieldcare.org Consider supporting us on: patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective read less
EducationEducation

Episodes

Prolonged Field Care Podcast 177: Guerilla Surgeon
4d ago
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 177: Guerilla Surgeon
In this podcast episode, Dennis interviews Alex McDonald, a medical student and member of Tactical Medicine New Zealand, about the republishing of the book 'Guerilla Surgeon.' The book tells the story of Dr. Lindsay Rogers, a New Zealand-born surgeon who served with the Special Operations Executive in Yugoslavia during World War II. The conversation covers topics such as the challenges of providing medical care in resource-limited environments, building trust with local forces, and the importance of cultural competency. Alex also discusses the mission of Tactical Medicine New Zealand and their partnership with the Special Operations Medical Association (SOMA) to republish the book. Takeaways The book 'Guerilla Surgeon' tells the story of Dr. Lindsay Rogers, a New Zealand-born surgeon who served with the Special Operations Executive in Yugoslavia during World War II. Providing medical care in resource-limited environments requires improvisation and making the most of available resources. Building trust with local forces is crucial for successful medical operations in foreign nations. Cultural competency is important for effective communication and collaboration with partner forces. Tactical Medicine New Zealand aims to promote and advance tactical medicine in New Zealand and has partnered with SOMA to republish 'Guerilla Surgeon.' Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org ⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
The Basics: TBI Management
1w ago
The Basics: TBI Management
Dr. Van Wyk discusses updates in traumatic brain injury (TBI) management, focusing on the CRASH 3 trial and the use of tranexamic acid (TXA). He explains that TXA is safe and reduces head injury-related death, particularly in patients with moderate and mild TBI. He also discusses the use of hypertonic saline and recommends considering higher concentrations, such as 23.4%, which have been shown to be safe and effective. Dr. Van Wyk mentions the use of sodium bicarbonate as an alternative and emphasizes the importance of clinical judgment in determining the appropriate treatment. He also discusses monitoring options for cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure, such as optic nerve sheath diameter measurements. Finally, he touches on the topic of decompressive hemicraniectomy and the considerations for performing this procedure in austere environments. Takeaways Tranexamic acid (TXA) is safe and reduces head injury-related death in patients with moderate and mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Higher concentrations of hypertonic saline, such as 23.4%, may be considered as they have been shown to be safe and effective. Sodium bicarbonate can be used as an alternative to hypertonic saline, particularly in austere environments. Optic nerve sheath diameter measurements can be used to monitor cerebral edema and increased intracranial pressure. Decompressive hemicraniectomy may be considered in severe TBI cases, and general surgeons may be trained to perform the procedure in the absence of a neurosurgeon. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 176: High Altitude Illness
Apr 15 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 176: High Altitude Illness
Summary: In this conversation, Dennis and Ian discuss the new high altitude Clinical Practice Guideline (CPG) in the Joint Trauma System. They cover topics such as acute mountain sickness (AMS), high altitude cerebral edema (HACE), and high altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE). They discuss the pathophysiology, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options for these conditions. They also touch on pre-treatment strategies and the use of portable hyperbaric chambers. Overall, the conversation provides a comprehensive overview of altitude-related illnesses and their management. In this conversation, Dennis and Ian discuss the treatment options for altitude illness, specifically AMS, HAPE, and HACE. They cover the use of pharmacologic therapy, oxygen, and portable hyperbaric chambers to stabilize and bring down patients with altitude illness. They also discuss the use of dexamethasone as the primary treatment for HACE and the potential use of hypertonic saline for extreme cases. They touch on the side effects of dexamethasone and the importance of protecting the airway. They also mention the use of acetazolamide for prophylaxis and the benefits of intermittent hypoxic exposure. Finally, they discuss the importance of good nutrition and hydration and the new medic encounter form for recording data on altitude illness. Takeaways: Acute mountain sickness (AMS) occurs when the body does not have enough time to acclimatize to the physiological stress of altitude. High altitude cerebral edema (HACE) is characterized by ataxia and can occur even without AMS symptoms. High altitude pulmonary edema (HAPE) is characterized by decreased exercise tolerance and tachypnea. Assessment of vital signs, such as heart rate and respiratory rate, can help differentiate between altitude illnesses. Portable hyperbaric chambers can be used to stabilize patients with altitude illnesses until they can be brought down to lower altitudes. Pharmacologic treatments, such as acetazolamide and dexamethasone, can be used for prophylaxis and treatment of altitude illnesses. Improvement in symptoms of HAPE can be rapid with oxygen therapy. Pre-treatment strategies, such as using acetazolamide, can help acclimatize the body to altitude before ascent. Pharmacologic therapy, oxygen, and portable hyperbaric chambers can be used to stabilize and bring down patients with altitude illness. Dexamethasone is the primary treatment for HACE, and hypertonic saline may be considered for extreme cases. Side effects of dexamethasone include increased sugar, gastric erosions, gastric bleeding, and adrenal suppression. Acetazolamide can be used for prophylaxis, and intermittent hypoxic exposure may help with acclimatization. Good nutrition, hydration, and iron status are important for preventing altitude illness. The new medic encounter form is a valuable tool for recording data on altitude illness. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
The Basics: How to ETCO2
Apr 5 2024
The Basics: How to ETCO2
In this podcast episode, Doug discusses the use of End-tidal CO2 monitoring in medical practice. End-tidal CO2 is used to monitor the percent of carbon dioxide in blood that has been returned to the lungs. It is commonly used to confirm the placement of an endotracheal tube and to monitor ventilation during surgery. In the field, End-tidal CO2 monitoring is particularly useful for trauma patients and those with severe traumatic brain injuries. However, it is important to note that End-tidal CO2 should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to patient care, and clinical judgment is still crucial in making treatment decisions. Takeaways End-tidal CO2 monitoring is used to confirm the placement of an endotracheal tube and to monitor ventilation during surgery. In the field, End-tidal CO2 monitoring is particularly useful for trauma patients and those with severe traumatic brain injuries. End-tidal CO2 should be used as part of a comprehensive approach to patient care, and clinical judgment is still crucial in making treatment decisions. Other markers of resuscitation, such as lactate levels, may provide more valuable information in certain situations. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 174: AAJT
Apr 1 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 174: AAJT
In this episode, Dennis interviews John and Paul about the Abdominal Aortic and Junctional Tourniquet (AAJT). They discuss the background and reasons for inventing the AAJT, including the need to control bleeding in the pelvis. They also talk about the first application of the AAJT and the positive results seen in combat situations. The conversation then moves on to study data and research on the device, including some negative studies that have been conducted. They also discuss the pressure levels used with the AAJT and the potential for extending the application time. Finally, they address the negative consequences of high pressure and the comfort level of wearing the device. The conversation explores the application and function of the Abdominal Aortic Junctional Tourniquet (AAJT) and its potential use in pre-hospital care. It discusses the challenges of prolonged application and the risks associated with it. The conversation also delves into alternative techniques and future developments in the field. The importance of reperfusion and monitoring is highlighted, along with the impact of the AAJT on breathing and inspiratory pressure. The discussion touches on the considerations for reducing pressure during reperfusion and the duration of application. The risk-benefit analysis of heroic interventions is examined, emphasizing the need for rapid hemorrhage control. The limitations and risks of Roboa are discussed, and a cadaveric study on the AHAT is presented. The conversation concludes with the role of the AHAT in preparing for future wars and its potential use in traumatic cardiac arrest. Takeaways The AAJT was invented to control bleeding in the pelvis and junctional areas. The device has been successfully used in combat situations and has saved lives. There have been several studies conducted on the AAJT, with mixed results. The device applies pressure to occlude blood flow, but the pressure levels are safe and well-tolerated. The Abdominal Aortic Junctional Tourniquet (AAJT) is a fielded device that can be used for rapid hemorrhage control in non-compressible torso hemorrhage. Prolonged application of the AAJT should be avoided, and it is important to consider the risks and benefits of its use. Alternative techniques and future developments, such as foams, are being explored for the treatment of non-compressible torso hemorrhage. Reperfusion and monitoring are crucial considerations when using the AAJT, and the pressure can be reduced during transfusion to mitigate ischemic change. The AAJT has shown promising results in traumatic cardiac arrest and can be a valuable tool in pre-hospital care. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 173: Deep Dive on Pelvic Injury
Mar 25 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 173: Deep Dive on Pelvic Injury
In this episode, Dennis and Alex discuss the truth about pelvic binders and their relevance in trauma care. They explore the background and experience of Alex, who has extensive knowledge in trauma surgery. They delve into the anatomy and injury patterns of pelvic fractures, as well as the different phases of damage control surgery. They also discuss the importance of understanding research and the levels of evidence. The conversation highlights the contradictory evidence surrounding the use of pelvic binders and emphasizes the need to critically evaluate citations and research findings. This conversation covers blast injuries, types of pelvic fractures, mortality rates, considerations for prolonged field care (PFC), the flow of care in PFC, normalization and observation, initial stabilization, massive transfusion protocol, futile transfusions, clinical decision making, pelvic binder design, imaging challenges, ultrasound for pelvic fracture assessment, duration of pelvic binder use, preventing pressure sores, consulting with medical professionals, proper application of pelvic binder, retroperitoneal hemorrhage, the role of telemedicine, critical care and decision making, and resources for further learning. Takeaways Understanding the anatomy and injury patterns of pelvic fractures is crucial in trauma care. The levels of evidence in research range from high-quality studies to expert opinions. The use of pelvic binders in trauma care is a topic of debate, with conflicting evidence and opinions. It is important to critically evaluate citations and research findings to make informed decisions in patient care. Understanding blast injuries and the different types of pelvic fractures is crucial in providing effective care in PFC. Mortality rates for pelvic fractures vary depending on the severity of the injury and associated injuries. Clinical decision making in PFC requires a thorough understanding of the patient's condition and available resources. Proper application and duration of pelvic binder use are important considerations in PFC. Consulting with medical professionals and seeking skeptics' opinions can help in making informed decisions in PFC. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective or www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
The Basics: How to do Research
Mar 24 2024
The Basics: How to do Research
In this podcast episode, Dennis and Ricky discuss how to pick and evaluate research papers to inform medical practice. They differentiate between causative research papers and retrospective observational studies, emphasizing the importance of reading the methods section to determine the validity of the research. They also highlight the common mistakes people make when reading research papers, such as relying solely on the title and abstract. The conversation delves into the challenges of conducting pre-hospital research and the difficulties in applying research findings to practice. Ricky also shares his experiences in mentoring aspiring medical school applicants and launching a new podcast.Takeaways Differentiate between causative research papers and retrospective observational studies when reading research papers. Read the methods section to determine the validity of the research and understand the inclusion and exclusion criteria, statistical analysis, and potential biases. Avoid common mistakes when reading research papers, such as relying solely on the title and abstract. Consider the challenges of conducting pre-hospital research, including data collection and controlling for environmental factors. Extrapolate research findings to pre-hospital practice by discussing and collaborating with other providers. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective⁠ or ⁠www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care⁠
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 172: Gas Anesthesia
Mar 18 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 172: Gas Anesthesia
This conversation explores the topic of gas anesthesia, its historical background, and its use in various environments. The conversation covers the shift to the TIVA technique, the importance of the anesthesia machine and equipment, and the training required to administer gas anesthesia. It also discusses the combined techniques used in the operating room and the stages of anesthesia. The conversation highlights the advantages and disadvantages of ether and chloroform as anesthetics. It emphasizes the need for vigilant monitoring and the use of IV induction agents for safety. The conversation concludes by discussing the duration of gas anesthesia and the importance of witnessing wakeups. Takeaways Gas anesthesia has a long history and is still used today in various environments. The TIVA technique is a popular approach to gas anesthesia, especially in field environments. The anesthesia machine and equipment play a crucial role in administering gas anesthesia. Vigilant monitoring is essential during gas anesthesia to ensure patient safety. Witnessing the stages of anesthesia, including wakeups, is important for understanding the process. Ether and chloroform were popular anesthetics in the past but have been replaced by safer alternatives. IV induction agents are used to quickly transition patients through the stages of anesthesia. The duration of gas anesthesia depends on the amount and length of use. Observing gas anesthesia in the operating room provides valuable insights into its application. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective⁠ or ⁠www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 171: Chest Trauma
Mar 13 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 171: Chest Trauma
In this conversation, Dennis and John discuss chest trauma management, specifically the use of chest seals and the sequence of interventions. They explore the overuse of chest seals and the potential complications they can cause. They also discuss the importance of assessing the patient and determining if a chest seal is necessary. John shares his insights on the use of finger thoracostomy and the technique for performing it. They also touch on the revision of the TCCC algorithm and the need to prioritize hemorrhage control. The conversation explores the challenges and approaches in operational medicine, emphasizing the need to align policy and guidelines with the experiences of field practitioners. It highlights the importance of preserving the rich experience and lessons learned by experienced personnel. The discussion also delves into the management of chest trauma, specifically focusing on emergent situations and the challenges in current practices. The conversation concludes with the anticipation of future discussions and the potential for further exploration of the topics. Takeaways Chest seals should be used specifically for sucking chest wounds or open pneumothorax. Chest seals can cause tension pneumothorax if used inappropriately. The decision to use a chest seal should be based on the patient's breathing status and the nature of the injury. Negative suction can be beneficial in re-inflating the lung and improving oxygenation in patients with chest trauma. The TCCC algorithm may need revision to prioritize hemorrhage control. Operational medicine requires a balance between algorithmic approaches and the practical experiences of field practitioners. Preserving the experience and lessons learned by experienced personnel is crucial for the development of effective policies and guidelines. Chest trauma management involves various emergent situations, including tension pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pneumothorax. Challenges in chest trauma management include the use of occlusive dressings and the need for surgical interventions. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 171: Chest Trauma
Mar 11 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 171: Chest Trauma
In this conversation, Dennis and John discuss chest trauma management, specifically the use of chest seals and the sequence of interventions. They explore the overuse of chest seals and the potential complications they can cause. They also discuss the importance of assessing the patient and determining if a chest seal is necessary. John shares his insights on the use of finger thoracostomy and the technique for performing it. They also touch on the revision of the TCCC algorithm and the need to prioritize hemorrhage control. The conversation explores the challenges and approaches in operational medicine, emphasizing the need to align policy and guidelines with the experiences of field practitioners. It highlights the importance of preserving the rich experience and lessons learned by experienced personnel. The discussion also delves into the management of chest trauma, specifically focusing on emergent situations and the challenges in current practices. The conversation concludes with the anticipation of future discussions and the potential for further exploration of the topics. Takeaways Chest seals should be used specifically for sucking chest wounds or open pneumothorax. Chest seals can cause tension pneumothorax if used inappropriately. The decision to use a chest seal should be based on the patient's breathing status and the nature of the injury. Negative suction can be beneficial in re-inflating the lung and improving oxygenation in patients with chest trauma. The TCCC algorithm may need revision to prioritize hemorrhage control. Operational medicine requires a balance between algorithmic approaches and the practical experiences of field practitioners. Preserving the experience and lessons learned by experienced personnel is crucial for the development of effective policies and guidelines. Chest trauma management involves various emergent situations, including tension pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pneumothorax. Challenges in chest trauma management include the use of occlusive dressings and the need for surgical interventions. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective⁠ or ⁠www.lobocoffeeco.com/product-page/prolonged-field-care
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 170: Medical Education
Mar 4 2024
Prolonged Field Care Podcast 170: Medical Education
In this conversation, Dennis and Mike discuss the process of providing medical care and education in austere environments. They emphasize the importance of understanding the requirements and asking the right questions to ensure success. They also discuss the significance of analyzing the environment, finding reliable sources of information, and building relationships with partners and friends. Planning and preparation are highlighted as crucial steps, along with effective teaching methods and the use of the Learning to Listen, Listening to Teach technique. The conversation concludes with a discussion on measuring performance and effectiveness, and the importance of flexibility and focusing on the student. Takeaways Understand the requirements and ask the right questions to ensure success in providing medical care and education in austere environments. Analyze the environment and find reliable sources of information to make informed decisions. Build relationships with partners and friends to enhance understanding and collaboration. Plan and prepare thoroughly, focusing on the basics and acquiring the necessary knowledge. Use effective teaching methods and the Learning to Listen, Listening to Teach technique to engage and educate students. Measure performance and effectiveness to assess the impact of the medical care and education provided. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective
Prolonged Field Care 169: GSMSG in Urkraine
Feb 26 2024
Prolonged Field Care 169: GSMSG in Urkraine
In this conversation, Aaron Epstein from GSMSG discusses the background and formation of GSMSG, their focus on training partners rather than providing services, and their work with military and security forces around the world. He shares lessons learned in surgical resuscitation, dealing with mass casualties, and planning for different phases of war. Aaron emphasizes the importance of tourniquet use and the need for more surgeons in combat situations. He also discusses the challenges in the training pipeline and the need for more medical training. The conversation concludes with a discussion on transportation challenges and lessons learned, as well as how to get in contact with GSMSG.Takeaways GSMSG focuses on training partners rather than providing services. Tourniquet use is vital in combat situations and should not be removed from the treatment algorithm. Planning for different phases of war, including defensive, static, and offensive actions, is crucial for effective medical support. There is a need for more surgeons and better medical training in combat situations. Transportation challenges in combat zones require innovative solutions. GSMSG can be contacted through their website, www.gsmsg.org. Thank you to Delta Development Team for in part, sponsoring this podcast. ⁠⁠deltadevteam.com⁠⁠ For more content go to ⁠⁠www.prolongedfieldcare.org⁠⁠ Consider supporting us: ⁠⁠patreon.com/ProlongedFieldCareCollective