ONR/MARCORSYSCOM Evaluation of Self-Applied Tourniquets for Combat Applications

摘要

Six tourniquets designed for combat application were tested for their ease of use and ability to occlude arterial blood flow to the upper arms and thighs in a repeated measures design. To simulate nighttime desert combat conditions, subjects completed an exercise routine while the tourniquet was immersed in a blood analog solution and rolled in sand. Subjects then applied the tourniquet while they were blindfolded and seated or lying supine. They were able to apply all tourniquets in a reasonable amount of time (range: 24- 204 s). The Quickette exhibited a high mechanical failure rate (30%). All tourniquets except the One-Handed Tourniquet (1-inch width) and Quickette performed reasonably well on arms and legs, with median occlusion efficacious exceeding 70%. Subjective rankings indicated that the Mechanical Advantage Tourniquet, Tourni-Kwik, and Combat Application Tourniquet were preferred over the One-Handed Tourniquet (1- and 2-inch models) and the Quickette. Additional research is recommended to investigate increases in blood flow that might occur with inadequate tourniquet application.