Wiener klinische Wochenschrift
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Wien. Klin. Wochenschr. · Mar 1997
Review[Avalanche emergency. New aspects of the pathophysiology and therapy of buried avalanche victims].
A series of investigations on the pathophysiology and management of persons buried in an avalanche has been undertaken over the past few years in response to increased awareness of the importance of emergency medical treatment of avalanche victims and the fact that the high mortality rate has not decreased in spite of the improvement in rescue techniques. This paper is the very first review of the problems encountered in avalanche disasters. The developments over the past 20 years, in particular, are summarized and discussed. ⋯ Improvement of the technical developments for the avoidance of total burial (avalanche air bag) and optimization of the electronic location (transceiver) of buried skiers by uninjured companions are essential future requirements. Nonetheless, primary prevention remains of paramount importance in governing decision making by offpiste skiers. Correct assessment of the inherent risks according to the prevailing circumstances and strict adherence to safety rules take precedence over all other considerations.