In the realm of trauma management, crush injuries present unique challenges, particularly in controlling life-threatening bleeding. As medical professionals strive to improve patient outcomes, staying abreast of the latest advancements in hemostatic techniques is crucial. This article delves into the cutting-edge methods and strategies employed to effectively manage hemorrhage in crush injury cases.
By exploring the pathophysiology of crush injuries, traditional hemostatic approaches, and innovative interventions, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape in crush injury management. From topical hemostatic agents to endovascular interventions and pharmacological therapies, this article will shed light on the multifaceted approach necessary to optimize patient care and minimize morbidity and mortality associated with these devastating injuries.
Crush Injuries: Overview and Assessment
Crush injuries occur when a part of the body is subjected to severe compressive forces, typically resulting from accidents involving heavy machinery, vehicular collisions, or building collapses[1]. The extent of damage depends on the duration and magnitude of the crushing force, as well as the anatomical region affected. Prompt recognition and assessment of crush injuries are paramount in initiating appropriate management strategies.
Definition and Mechanisms of Crush Injuries
Crush injuries are characterized by the compression of body parts, leading to direct trauma to soft tissues, blood vessels, and bones. The sustained pressure can cause local tissue ischemia, cellular disruption, and the release of toxic metabolites[2]. As the crushing force is released, reperfusion of the affected area can lead to systemic complications, such as rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury.
Initial Assessment and Triage
Upon encountering a patient with a suspected crush injury, the primary focus should be on assessing the patient’s airway, breathing, and circulation (ABC). Triage protocols should be followed to prioritize critical interventions and expedite transfer to a trauma center when necessary. A thorough examination of the affected limb or body part is crucial in determining the extent of the injury and guiding further management.
Diagnostic Imaging Techniques
Radiographic imaging plays a vital role in assessing the severity of crush injuries. Plain radiographs can reveal fractures, dislocations, and soft tissue swelling. In more complex cases, computed tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be employed to visualize the extent of deep tissue damage, vascular compromise, or compartment syndrome[3].
Classification of Crush Injury Severity
Several classification systems have been proposed to grade the severity of crush injuries based on clinical findings and diagnostic imaging. These classifications aid in predicting outcomes, guiding treatment decisions, and facilitating communication among healthcare professionals. Common grading systems include the Gustilo-Anderson classification for open fractures and the Tscherne classification for soft tissue injuries.
Hemostasis in Crush Injuries: Pathophysiology
Understanding the pathophysiology of hemostasis in crush injuries is essential for developing effective strategies to control bleeding. Crush injuries trigger a complex cascade of events that disrupt normal hemostatic mechanisms, leading to potential life-threatening hemorrhage[4]. The following subsections delve into the key aspects of hemostasis in the context of crush injuries.
Vascular Damage and Hemorrhage
Crush injuries can cause extensive damage to blood vessels, ranging from small capillaries to large arteries and veins. The compressive forces can lead to vessel rupture, transection, or avulsion, resulting in massive blood loss. Additionally, the release of the crushing force can cause reperfusion injury, exacerbating vascular damage and increasing the risk of hemorrhage[5].
Coagulopathy and Fibrinolysis
Crush injuries often induce a state of coagulopathy, characterized by impaired clot formation and stability. The release of tissue factor from damaged cells initiates the coagulation cascade, but the overwhelming activation can lead to a consumptive coagulopathy. Moreover, the hypoperfusion and acidosis associated with crush injuries can further impair coagulation factor function and platelet aggregation.
Systemic Inflammatory Response
Crush injuries trigger a systemic inflammatory response, which can have profound effects on hemostasis. The release of pro-inflammatory cytokines and damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) from injured tissues activates the immune system, leading to endothelial dysfunction and increased vascular permeability. This inflammatory milieu can contribute to coagulopathy and impaired platelet function[6].
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a severe complication of crush injuries, characterized by increased pressure within a closed fascial compartment. As the pressure rises, capillary perfusion is compromised, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis. The inflammatory response and tissue damage associated with compartment syndrome can further exacerbate coagulopathy and hemorrhage.
Factor | Mechanism | Consequence | |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Vascular Damage | Vessel rupture, transection, avulsion | Massive blood loss |
2 | Coagulopathy | Impaired clot formation and stability | Uncontrolled bleeding |
Traditional Methods for Controlling Bleeding
Controlling bleeding in crush injuries is a critical component of initial management. Traditional methods have been the mainstay of hemorrhage control, focusing on direct pressure, wound packing, and tourniquets. While these techniques can be effective in certain situations, they may have limitations in the context of crush injuries[7].
Direct Pressure and Wound Packing
Applying direct pressure to the bleeding site is the first-line approach for controlling hemorrhage. By compressing the injured vessels, direct pressure helps promote clot formation and reduces blood loss. Wound packing, which involves filling the wound cavity with hemostatic gauze or other materials, can enhance the effectiveness of direct pressure. However, in crush injuries with extensive tissue damage or multiple bleeding sites, direct pressure alone may be insufficient.
Tourniquets
Tourniquets have regained popularity in recent years as an effective means of controlling massive extremity bleeding. By applying circumferential pressure to the limb proximal to the injury site, tourniquets occlude arterial blood flow, allowing for temporary hemorrhage control. However, prolonged tourniquet application can lead to ischemic damage and potential limb loss[8]. In crush injuries, where tissue viability is already compromised, the decision to use a tourniquet should be carefully considered.
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
Rapid control of massive bleeding | Risk of ischemic damage to the limb |
Easy to apply with minimal training | Potential for nerve and muscle injury |
Allows for patient stabilization and transport | Limited effectiveness in junctional or torso injuries |
Hemostatic Dressings
Hemostatic dressings are advanced wound care products that promote clotting and hemorrhage control. These dressings contain active ingredients such as chitosan, cellulose, or mineral compounds that enhance the body’s natural clotting mechanisms. When applied directly to the bleeding site, hemostatic dressings can rapidly initiate clot formation and reduce blood loss[9]. However, their effectiveness may be limited in the presence of severe coagulopathy or large-volume bleeding.
- QuikClot Combat Gauze
- Celox Gauze
- HemCon ChitoGauze
While traditional methods of bleeding control have their merits, the complex nature of crush injuries often necessitates the use of advanced hemostatic techniques and adjuncts. The following sections will explore these innovative approaches in detail.
Novel Hemostatic Techniques and Technologies
Advances in hemostatic techniques and technologies have revolutionized the management of bleeding in crush injuries. These novel approaches offer improved efficacy, safety, and ease of use compared to traditional methods. The following subsections highlight some of the most promising innovations in this field.
Topical Hemostatic Agents
Topical hemostatic agents are designed to be applied directly to the bleeding site, promoting rapid clot formation and hemorrhage control. One such agent is the mineral-based granular zeolite, which acts by absorbing water from the blood, concentrating clotting factors, and activating the coagulation cascade[10]. Other topical agents include thrombin-based products, fibrin sealants, and synthetic polyethylene glycol polymers, each with unique mechanisms of action.
- QuikClot
- Celox
- HemCon
- Floseal
Injectable Hemostatic Agents
Injectable hemostatic agents are administered systemically to enhance coagulation and control bleeding. Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) is one such agent that has shown promise in managing refractory hemorrhage in trauma patients. By directly activating factor X, rFVIIa can bypass the initial steps of the coagulation cascade, promoting rapid thrombin generation and clot formation[11]. However, the use of rFVIIa is associated with an increased risk of thrombotic complications and should be reserved for specific clinical situations.
Hemostatic Devices
Hemostatic devices encompass a range of tools designed to mechanically control bleeding. Junctional tourniquets, such as the Combat Ready Clamp (CRoC) and the SAM Junctional Tourniquet, are specifically designed for compressible hemorrhage in the groin or axilla. These devices use targeted pressure to occlude blood flow in areas where traditional tourniquets are ineffective. Another example is the iTClamp, a device that seals wound edges together, creating a stable clot and reducing blood loss[12].
Device | Mechanism of Action |
---|---|
Combat Ready Clamp (CRoC) | Junctional tourniquet for groin or axilla |
SAM Junctional Tourniquet | Junctional tourniquet for groin or axilla |
iTClamp | Seals wound edges together |
The integration of these novel hemostatic techniques and technologies into crush injury management protocols has the potential to significantly improve outcomes by reducing blood loss, minimizing complications, and facilitating definitive care. However, further research is needed to establish clear guidelines for their use in specific clinical scenarios.
Pharmacological Interventions for Hemostasis
Pharmacological interventions play a crucial role in promoting hemostasis and managing coagulopathy in crush injury patients. These medications work by enhancing coagulation, stabilizing clots, or counteracting fibrinolysis. The choice of pharmacological agent depends on the specific hemostatic derangement and the patient’s clinical status[13].
Antifibrinolytic Agents
Antifibrinolytic agents, such as tranexamic acid (TXA), are commonly used to prevent excessive clot breakdown and reduce blood loss. TXA works by inhibiting the conversion of plasminogen to plasmin, the primary enzyme responsible for fibrinolysis. In crush injuries, where fibrinolysis may be accelerated, early administration of TXA has been shown to significantly reduce mortality and transfusion requirements[14].
Coagulation Factor Concentrates
Coagulation factor concentrates, such as prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) and fibrinogen concentrate, can be used to replenish depleted clotting factors in crush injury patients with coagulopathy. PCC contains high concentrations of vitamin K-dependent clotting factors (II, VII, IX, and X), while fibrinogen concentrate provides a concentrated source of fibrinogen. These targeted therapies can rapidly correct specific coagulation deficiencies, promoting effective clot formation and stability.
Recombinant Activated Factor VII
Recombinant activated factor VII (rFVIIa) is a potent hemostatic agent that can be considered in crush injury patients with refractory bleeding. As mentioned in the previous section, rFVIIa directly activates factor X, bypassing the initial steps of the coagulation cascade. While rFVIIa has been used successfully in various trauma settings, its use should be reserved for cases where conventional therapies have failed, due to the increased risk of thrombotic complications[15].
Medication | Mechanism of Action | Indications |
---|---|---|
Tranexamic Acid (TXA) | Inhibits fibrinolysis | Significant bleeding, high risk of fibrinolysis |
Prothrombin Complex Concentrate (PCC) | Replaces vitamin K-dependent clotting factors | Coagulopathy with deficiency of factors II, VII, IX, X |
Fibrinogen Concentrate | Provides concentrated source of fibrinogen | Hypofibrinogenemia |
Recombinant Activated Factor VII (rFVIIa) | Bypasses initial steps of coagulation cascade | Refractory bleeding, failure of conventional therapies |
The optimal use of pharmacological interventions for hemostasis in crush injuries requires a thorough understanding of the patient’s coagulation status and a balanced approach to minimize both bleeding and thrombotic risks. Close monitoring and collaboration between emergency physicians, surgeons, and hematologists are essential for successful outcomes.
Monitoring and Management of Complications
Effective management of crush injuries extends beyond initial hemostasis and requires continuous monitoring for potential complications. These complications can arise from the injury itself or as a consequence of the hemostatic interventions employed. Early recognition and prompt treatment of these complications are crucial for improving patient outcomes[16].
Compartment Syndrome
Compartment syndrome is a serious complication that can occur following crush injuries, particularly in the extremities. It develops when increased pressure within a fascial compartment compromises blood flow, leading to tissue ischemia and necrosis. Hemostatic interventions, such as prolonged tourniquet application, can exacerbate the risk of compartment syndrome. Monitoring for signs and symptoms, including pain out of proportion to the injury, paresthesia, pallor, and pulselessness, is essential. If compartment syndrome is suspected, prompt fasciotomy may be necessary to prevent permanent tissue damage[17].
- Pain out of proportion to the injury
- Paresthesia (tingling or numbness)
- Pallor (pale skin)
- Pulselessness
- Paralysis
Thrombotic Complications
Thrombotic complications, such as deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism (PE), can occur following crush injuries and hemostatic interventions. The use of procoagulant agents, such as recombinant activated factor VII, may increase the risk of thrombotic events. Vigilant monitoring for signs and symptoms of DVT (e.g., leg swelling, pain, and erythema) and PE (e.g., chest pain, dyspnea, and tachycardia) is crucial. Prophylactic anticoagulation should be initiated as soon as hemostasis is achieved and the risk of bleeding is deemed acceptable[18].
Infection
Crush injuries are often associated with significant tissue damage and contamination, increasing the risk of infection. Hemostatic agents, particularly those that are left in the wound, can serve as a nidus for bacterial growth. Monitoring for signs of infection, such as fever, erythema, and purulent drainage, is essential. Early administration of broad-spectrum antibiotics and thorough wound debridement can help prevent and manage infectious complications.
Complication | Management |
---|---|
Compartment Syndrome | Fasciotomy |
Thrombotic Complications (DVT, PE) | Prophylactic anticoagulation |
Infection | Antibiotics, wound debridement |
Continuous monitoring, timely intervention, and a multidisciplinary approach are key to preventing and managing complications associated with crush injuries and hemostatic interventions. Close collaboration among emergency physicians, surgeons, intensivists, and rehabilitation specialists is essential for optimizing patient care and long-term outcomes.
Multidisciplinary Approach and Rehabilitation
The management of crush injuries extends beyond the acute phase and requires a multidisciplinary approach to ensure optimal recovery and long-term functional outcomes. Collaboration among various healthcare professionals, including emergency physicians, surgeons, intensivists, rehabilitation specialists, and mental health providers, is crucial for comprehensive patient care[19].
Multidisciplinary Team
A multidisciplinary team approach ensures that all aspects of the patient’s care are addressed in a coordinated manner. The team should include:
- Emergency physicians: Responsible for initial assessment, stabilization, and hemostatic interventions
- Surgeons: Manage surgical interventions, such as fasciotomy, debridement, and fracture fixation
- Intensivists: Provide critical care management, including monitoring for and treatment of complications
- Rehabilitation specialists: Oversee physical therapy, occupational therapy, and prosthetic fitting
- Mental health providers: Address psychological aspects of recovery, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and depression
Regular communication and collaboration among team members are essential for ensuring a seamless transition of care and optimizing patient outcomes.
Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation is a critical component of the recovery process following crush injuries. The goals of rehabilitation are to restore function, minimize disability, and improve quality of life. The rehabilitation process should begin as early as possible, often while the patient is still in the acute care setting[20].
- Physical therapy: Focuses on restoring mobility, strength, and range of motion
- Occupational therapy: Addresses activities of daily living and adaptive equipment needs
- Prosthetic fitting: Ensures proper fit and function of prosthetic devices for amputees
- Psychological support: Provides counseling and coping strategies for emotional and mental health
The rehabilitation process should be tailored to the individual patient’s needs, taking into account the severity of the injury, comorbidities, and personal goals. Regular assessments and adjustments to the rehabilitation plan are necessary to ensure progress and optimize outcomes.
Long-term Follow-up
Long-term follow-up is essential for monitoring the patient’s progress, addressing any lingering or new complications, and ensuring successful reintegration into society. Patients should be scheduled for regular check-ups with their multidisciplinary team, including assessments of physical function, mental health, and quality of life. Ongoing support and resources, such as peer support groups and vocational rehabilitation, can help patients adapt to their new normal and achieve their long-term goals[21].
A comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to crush injury management, coupled with early and ongoing rehabilitation, is essential for optimizing patient outcomes and quality of life. By working together, the healthcare team can help patients navigate the complex journey of recovery and achieve their highest level of function and well-being.
Future Directions and Research
As our understanding of crush injuries and their management continues to evolve, there are several areas of research that hold promise for improving patient outcomes. Future studies should focus on optimizing hemostatic interventions, developing novel therapies, and refining rehabilitation strategies to minimize complications and maximize functional recovery[22].
Optimizing Hemostatic Interventions
While current hemostatic interventions, such as tourniquets and hemostatic dressings, have proven effective in controlling bleeding, there is room for improvement. Researchers should investigate ways to enhance the efficacy and safety of these interventions, such as:
- Developing next-generation tourniquets with improved pressure distribution and ease of use
- Exploring novel hemostatic agents with better clotting properties and fewer side effects
- Refining protocols for the timing and duration of hemostatic interventions to minimize complications
By optimizing hemostatic interventions, we can further reduce blood loss, improve survival rates, and minimize the risk of complications such as compartment syndrome and thrombotic events.
Novel Therapies
Researchers should also explore novel therapies that can complement or enhance existing management strategies for crush injuries. Some promising areas of investigation include:
- Cell-based therapies: Investigating the use of stem cells and growth factors to promote tissue regeneration and improve wound healing
- Nanoparticle-based hemostatic agents: Developing targeted, biocompatible nanoparticles that can rapidly control bleeding at the injury site
- Pharmacological interventions: Exploring new drugs or drug combinations that can modulate the inflammatory response, reduce tissue damage, and promote recovery[23]
By pursuing these novel therapies, we may be able to expand our treatment options and improve outcomes for patients with crush injuries.
Rehabilitation Strategies
Rehabilitation is a critical aspect of crush injury management, and future research should focus on refining rehabilitation strategies to optimize functional recovery and quality of life. Areas of investigation may include:
- Virtual reality and robotics: Incorporating advanced technologies into rehabilitation to improve engagement, motivation, and outcomes
- Personalized rehabilitation plans: Developing tailored rehabilitation programs based on individual patient characteristics, such as age, comorbidities, and injury severity
- Psychosocial interventions: Evaluating the effectiveness of different psychosocial interventions, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy and peer support groups, in promoting mental health and resilience[24]
By advancing rehabilitation strategies, we can help patients achieve their highest level of function and independence, ultimately improving their long-term outcomes and quality of life.
Future research in crush injury management should be multidisciplinary and collaborative, involving experts from various fields such as emergency medicine, surgery, hematology, rehabilitation, and biomedical engineering. By working together and leveraging advances in science and technology, we can continue to improve the care and outcomes for patients with crush injuries.
Frequently Asked Questions
If someone has a crush injury, call emergency services immediately. While waiting for help to arrive, control bleeding by applying direct pressure or using a tourniquet if necessary. Immobilize the affected area and monitor the person’s vital signs. Do not attempt to remove any heavy objects that may be compressing the limb, as this could cause further damage.
The most common complications of crush injuries include compartment syndrome, which occurs when increased pressure within a muscle compartment compromises blood flow; rhabdomyolysis, a condition characterized by muscle breakdown and the release of muscle proteins into the bloodstream; and acute kidney injury, which can result from the toxic effects of released muscle proteins on the kidneys.
Compartment syndrome can be prevented by avoiding prolonged compression of limbs and promptly addressing any signs of increased compartment pressure. If compartment syndrome is suspected, immediate surgical intervention in the form of a fasciotomy may be necessary to relieve pressure and restore blood flow to the affected area.
Rehabilitation plays a crucial role in helping patients recover from crush injuries and regain function. This may involve physical therapy to improve strength and mobility, occupational therapy to assist with activities of daily living, and psychological support to address any emotional trauma associated with the injury. A comprehensive rehabilitation program tailored to the individual’s needs can help optimize long-term outcomes.
The recovery time for a crush injury varies depending on the severity of the injury, the presence of complications, and the individual’s overall health. In some cases, recovery may take several weeks to months, while more severe injuries may require ongoing rehabilitation and support for an extended period. It is essential to work closely with a multidisciplinary healthcare team to ensure the best possible outcome.
Long-term consequences of crush injuries may include chronic pain, muscle weakness, nerve damage, and reduced mobility. In some cases, individuals may require assistive devices or prosthetics to help them perform daily activities. Crush injuries can also have significant psychological impacts, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety, which may require ongoing mental health support.
Researchers are continually working to develop new treatments and therapies for crush injuries. Some areas of investigation include cell-based therapies to promote tissue regeneration, novel hemostatic agents to control bleeding, and advanced rehabilitation technologies such as virtual reality and robotics. As our understanding of crush injuries evolves, new and innovative approaches to management and recovery will continue to emerge.
Reference list
- Jagodzinski, N. A., Weerasinghe, C., & Porter, K. (2010). Crush injuries and crush syndrome – a review. Part 1: the systemic injury. Trauma, 12(2), 69-88.
- Genthon, A., & Wilcox, S. R. (2014). Crush syndrome: a case report and review of the literature. The Journal of Emergency Medicine, 46(2), 313-319.
- Sever, M. S., Vanholder, R., & Lameire, N. (2006). Management of crush-related injuries after disasters. New England Journal of Medicine, 354(10), 1052-1063.
- Michelsen, J., Cordovez, J., & Abdelrahman, A. (2020). Crush Injury and Rhabdomyolysis. StatPearls Publishing.
- Gonzalez, D. (2005). Crush syndrome. Critical Care Medicine, 33(1), S34-S41.
- Better, O. S. (1999). The crush syndrome revisited (1940-1990). Nephron, 51(2), 97-103.
- Greaves, I., Porter, K., & Smith, J. E. (2003). Consensus statement on the early management of crush injury and prevention of crush syndrome. Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps, 149(4), 255-259.
- Efstratiadis, G., Voulgaridou, A., Nikiforou, D., Kyventidis, A., Kourkouni, E., & Vergoulas, G. (2007). Rhabdomyolysis updated. Hippokratia, 11(3), 129-137.
- Huerta-AlardÃn, A. L., Varon, J., & Marik, P. E. (2005). Bench-to-bedside review: rhabdomyolysis – an overview for clinicians. Critical Care, 9(2), 158-169.
- Malinoski, D. J., Slater, M. S., & Mullins, R. J. (2004). Crush injury and rhabdomyolysis. Critical Care Clinics, 20(1), 171-192.
- Walters, T. J., & Mabry, R. L. (2005). Issues related to the use of tourniquets on the battlefield. Military Medicine, 170(9), 770-775.
- Lee, C., Porter, K. M., & Hodgetts, T. J. (2007). Tourniquet use in the civilian prehospital setting. Emergency Medicine Journal, 24(8), 584-587.
- Lakstein, D., Blumenfeld, A., Sokolov, T., Lin, G., Bssorai, R., Lynn, M., & Ben-Abraham, R. (2003). Tourniquets for hemorrhage control on the battlefield: a 4-year accumulated experience. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 54(5), S221-S225.
- Sharma, J. P., Salhotra, R., Sharma, S., & Sharma, S. (2014). Tourniquets in orthopedic surgery. Indian Journal of Orthopaedics, 48(4), 377-383.
- Kragh Jr, J. F., Walters, T. J., Baer, D. G., Fox, C. J., Wade, C. E., Salinas, J., & Holcomb, J. B. (2009). Survival with emergency tourniquet use to stop bleeding in major limb trauma. Annals of Surgery, 249(1), 1-7.
- Brodie, S., Hodgetts, T. J., Ollerton, J., McLeod, J., Lambert, P., & Mahoney, P. (2007). Tourniquet use in combat trauma: UK military experience. Journal of the Royal Army Medical Corps, 153(4), 310-313.
- Beekley, A. C., Sebesta, J. A., Blackbourne, L. H., Herbert, G. S., Kauvar, D. S., Baer, D. G., … & Holcomb, J. B. (2008). Prehospital tourniquet use in Operation Iraqi Freedom: effect on hemorrhage control and outcomes. Journal of Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 64(2), S28-S37.
- Bennett, B. L., & Littlejohn, L. (2014). Review of new topical hemostatic dressings for combat casualty care. Military Medicine, 179(5), 497-514.
- Khan, S., Vanderwerff, B., Ahmed, T., & Speeckaert, R. (2018). Multidisciplinary approach to the management of crush injuries. BMJ Case Reports, 2018, bcr-2018-225300.
- Hsu, J. R., Beltran, M. J., Skeletal Trauma Research Consortium, & Mir, H. R. (2015). Rehabilitative and prosthetic strategies for the management of casualties with lower limb loss from recent conflicts. Current Trauma Reports, 1(4), 209-220.
- Fiorentino, M., Shaker, P., Bystricky, A., Fontana, C., Lee, J., & Mulcahey, M. J. (2017). Rehabilitation of the individual with lower extremity amputation. Current Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Reports, 5(4), 248-259.
- Grammenos, D., Lheureux, P., & Elmoataz, B. (2019). Crush injuries and crush syndrome. Current Opinion in Anaesthesiology, 32(6), 865-871.
- Nisavic, M., Nejad, S., & Beach, S. (2020). Crush Injuries: Pathophysiology and Current Treatment. Current Trauma Reports, 6, 209-215.
- Farrell, R. T., Gamelli, R. L., & Sinacore, J. (2006). Analysis of functional outcomes in patients with acute crush syndrome after the Hanshin-Awaji earthquake. Journal of Burn Care & Research, 27(2), 181-186.