Management of Trauma and Emergency Surgery in Space

Emergencies in Space

“…7,8 During prolonged exposure to microgravity, astronauts lose a small percentage of total body calcium and bone density, which results in an increase in urinary calcium. [6][7][8] Muscles can also atrophy, with up to a 20% loss in strength and with associated neuroplastic changes. [6][7][8] There is also a decrease in lymphocyte numbers, with an increase in leukocytes but with a reduced ability for phagocytosis.…”

“…[6][7][8] Muscles can also atrophy, with up to a 20% loss in strength and with associated neuroplastic changes. [6][7][8] There is also a decrease in lymphocyte numbers, with an increase in leukocytes but with a reduced ability for phagocytosis. 8,11 Circadian rhythms and sleep patterns are usually disrupted and can induce psychophysiologic responses to stress.…”

“…[6][7][8] Galactic radiation amounts to about 10 millirem per day, and the total exposure from a trip to the moon is estimated to be about 0.5 rem. Solar flares can increase this dose to 100 millirem or more and could have a toxic effect by accumulation during the months of a long spaceflight.…”

“…[6][7][8] The comparatively lower pressure within the suits used for extravehicular activity can precipitate decompression illness. Cabin pressures are sometimes reduced in preparation for extravehicular activity, and crewmembers may breathe 100% oxygen for a period before leaving the spacecraft.…”

“…6,18 In microgravity, these maneuvers can be difficult, and there has been some effort to develop restraining devices that could be used for providing traction. Splints chosen for space missions are selected for versatility, low volume, and mass and should be well tolerated for an extended period.…”