Training suit and artificial CPR unit evokes huge interest at live demo

DUBAI // Demonstrations of the latest technology used in emergency medicine drew plenty of interest at the Arab Health Congress, although some were not for the squeamish.

One of the more gory displays was by Californian company Strategic Operations, which unveiled its Tactical Combat Casualty Care training suit.

The suit, which is currently being used in Europe and the US, has been developed with the military in mind, but can also be used to help train the emergency services.

When the suit is worn by a volunteer, it allows the medical worker to practise how to treat open wounds and puncture wounds, such as knife cuts or bullet holes.

It replicates skin and muscle, and can be easily repaired so it can be reused. The skin is realistic enough to allow stitches to be inserted.

Steve Markham, medical director for Strategic Operations, said: “The suit enables people to train in the technical aspects of real-life trauma, but also manage the responses of the patient, because the suit can be worn.

“It is perfect for learning how to treat an uncontrollable haemorrhage, airway compromise and tension pneumothorax, a progressive build-up of air following lung laceration that can be fatal.”

Another demonstration on the Leader Healthcare stand showed how an artificial chest compression unit could be used as an alternative to a defibrillator to restart a patient’s heart.

The Lifeband fits around a patient’s chest and performs optimal compressions during cardio-pulmonary resuscitation.

Osama Said, a product specialist with the company, said: “This Lifeband technology is safer than using manual compressions. Our studies show that this is comparable to the CPR done by professionals in a medical setting.”

The device comes with a spinal support board and two batteries, which last up to 45 minutes. It is portable and can be carried by paramedics. It reduces injuries to the ribs and chest.

“It is being used in Adnoc ambulances in Abu Dhabi, at Al Rahba Hospital and at the Zayed Military Academy,” said Mr Said.

nwebster@thenational.ae