Brugger, Zafren, Festi, Paal, Strapazzon presented the first definitive work on this topic. Wolfgang Lederer wrote a fantastic review of the book.
“Every accident in the mountains is inherently an emergency.” Hermann Brugger discusses what is probably the most comprehensive standard work on mountain rescue operations.
Book review by Wolfgang Lederer: Hermann Brugger, Ken Zafren and Luigi Festi, Eds., Mountain Emergency Medicine. Editorial Edra S.p.A.; 2021, 672 pp., ISBN: 9788821447334.
I eagerly awaited the first edition of the book Mountain Emergency Medicine by the main editors Hermann Brugger, Ken Zafren, and Luigi Festi. A comprehensive textbook, written and edited by some of the leading experts in alpine emergency medicine from across Europe, the United States, and South Africa.
The first impression is very positive. A broad spectrum of topics in alpine emergency medicine is presented. From trauma and medical emergencies to neurological and psychiatric illnesses and infections, everything that can occur during stays at high altitudes and under extreme climatic conditions in alpine operations is described. The competence and individual experience of the authors ensure that the information is factual and relevant.
The knowledge is current and corresponds to the latest scientific standards. The impressive progress in the development of new rescue technologies and in the training of alpine rescue personnel in recent decades has increased the need to scientifically evaluate both new and established treatment procedures in alpine emergency medicine. These investigations are carried out either under controlled experimental conditions, e.g., in the terraXcube, or on-site during real emergencies under many influences. This book successfully achieves a balanced composition of basic science and clinical research.
Mountain Emergency Medicine is a unique textbook of excellent print quality. Additionally, an electronic version is available as an e-book, allowing quick access to information and rapid orientation. The editing is concise, and the sections are uniformly structured. The individual chapters are divided into epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnostics, acute interventions, and treatment.
Even information on further hospital care and treatment outcomes is offered in a dedicated section. Diagnostics are limited to the classical approach. Ultrasound images will probably receive more attention in the next edition of this book. The subchapters are well-arranged and facilitate quick orientation. Short case reports enliven the description of measures.
The visual material on emergencies and care in extreme terrain is particularly impressive. Important information is also clearly presented in numerous tables. In addition, key information is briefly summarized in “Take-Home Messages” at the end of each chapter. References to the most relevant citations allow the reader to obtain even more detailed information.
The first section of the book Mountain Emergency Medicine deals with general considerations and the current situation. This is followed by sections on training and practice, equipment, treatment, and specialized background knowledge. The general considerations are limited to an introduction, history, and an overview of rescue challenges.
While the historical review is more tailored to European experiences, the courage and ingenuity of the helpers in the early days of alpine rescue are still captivating. Chapters 1 and 2 deal with the achievements of the International Commission for Alpine Rescue. Specific information on safety and risk management is found at the beginning of the chapters on various on-site care.
Information on personnel and resource management is only provided in the last section after the chapter on mass casualty incidents. By far the largest part of the contributions in the book is dedicated to the specific differences in on-site care. Accidents during caving, canyoning, climbing, diving, mountain hiking, cycling, skiing, and paragliding differ in injury patterns and care requirements. This demands comprehensive knowledge from rescue personnel.
At the same time, operations become more difficult when they take place in remote areas and challenging terrain under extreme environmental conditions. Under the special conditions of a harsh environment, good teamwork becomes a basic prerequisite. Sometimes, the standardized procedures of emergency operations must also be supplemented by improvised problem-solving.
Mountain Emergency Medicine by Brugger, Zafren, and Festi is a pleasure to read. It covers the fundamental principles of alpine emergency medicine and is an excellent reference work. It meets the demands of both aspiring and trained emergency physicians, and sports physicians. It provides essential information for rescue personnel involved in both ground-based and air-based alpine rescue.
The book also fascinates all those who share a passion for the mountains and untouched wilderness.