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[Observations on bone injuries in aviation. Indications for treatment of more complicated fractures with external fixators. Clinical examples].

Air force injuries and statistics from airport first-aid stations confer on aviation traumatic pathology a position of some significance, though in general terms the percentages involved are much the same as those associated with an ordinary occupation and revealed by an ordinary epidemiological investigation. Attention to special areas, however, such as parachuting, makes it clear that injuries, particularly bone fractures, exact a considerable toll. Aircraft accidents form the major field. Reference is made to subjects with multiple injuries and the indications for external fixators. These offer certain advantages (minimal applicative injury, facilitation of dynamic osteosynthesis), and disadvantages (problems of anchorage to the bone, and biomechanical and technical problems). The so-called "omnidirectional" fixator enables these disadvantages to its credit: employment of conventional and special grasping elements, easy and precise application, with the possibility of carrying out unidirectional adjustments and electronic checking of the forces applied.

Aerospace Medicine↗

Psychophysiological monitoring of operator's emotional stress in aviation and astronautics.

The level of emotional stress depending on the power of motivation and the estimation by the subject of the probability (possibility) of goal achievement, largely influences the operator's skill performance (that of a pilot, controller, astronaut). A decrease in the emotional tonus leads to drowsiness, lack of vigilance, missing of significant signals, and to slower reactions. The extremely high stress level disorganizes the activity, complicates it with a trend toward untimely acts and reactions to the insignificant signals (false alarms). The best methods to monitor the degree of the operator's emotional state during his skill performance are the integral estimation of the changes in heart-rate and T-peak amplitude, as well as the analysis of spectral and intonational characteristics of the human voice during radio conversation. These methods were tested on paratroopers, pilots in civil aviation, and airport controllers.

Aerospace Medicine↗

Venous gas bubbles while flying with cabin altitudes of airliners or general aviation aircraft 3 hours after diving.

Decompression venous gas bubbles were detected with the precordial Doppler utrasound technique in humans at simulated altitudes of 1,000-3,000 m 3 h after no-stage decompression dives to 15 or 39 m. Bubbles were detected at 3,000 m in a total of 60% of the subjects: in 90% after the 100-min shallow dives to 15 m with some bubbles present in the first minutes (mean onset 12 min), and in only 30% after the 10-min deeper dives to 39 m with later appearances of bubbles (mean onset 28 min). At both 2,000 and 1,000 m bubbles could also be detected, sometimes in the first minutes. The risk of decompression sickness must be considered high with the amount of gas bubbles found, even though only uncertain symptoms appeared in this study. Thus, a safe interval between ordinary SCUBA-diving and flying in airliners or general aviation aircraft seems to be more than 3 h.

Adult↗

Visual performance with the Aviator Night Vision Imaging System (ANVIS) at a simulated altitude of 4300 meters.

This study determined if visual performance with Aviator Night Vision Imaging System (ANVIS) was degraded by the degree of hypoxia experienced at the maximum flight altitude currently authorized (U.S. Army regulations) without supplemental oxygen. Visual acuity and contrast sensitivity with ANVIS were tested under simulated starlight and full moonlight illumination in a hypobaric chamber: at ground level (93 m), 5 min and 30 min after ascent to 4300 m, and 10 min after return to ground level. Visual acuity was significantly (p < 0.05) degraded by a small amount (0.05 log minimal angle resolvable) after 30 min at 4300 m. Contrast sensitivity was not significantly degraded at any time. No significant difference between males (n = 11) and females (n = 6) on any measure of visual performance was detected. Females did have a significantly lower percent oxygen saturation of hemoglobin compared with males at altitude (72% versus 80% after 30 min). The results suggests that visual acuity ANVIS is degraded slightly after 30 min of exposure to 4300 m, although less than what would be expected with unaided night vision under these conditions.

Adult↗

Nathan Zuntz (1847-1920)--a German pioneer in high altitude physiology and aviation medicine, Part I: Biography.

Nathan Zuntz (1847-1920) was a key person in the history of high altitude physiology and aviation medicine. As a professor of animal physiology at the Landwirtschaftliche Hochschule (Agricultural University) in Berlin from 1881 until 1918, he carried out laboratory studies on the changes in metabolism at rest and during exercise. To this end he, together with August Julius Geppert, developed the famous "Zuntz-Geppert'schen Respirationsapparat" (Zuntz-Geppert respiratory apparatus) in 1885. In the early 1890's, Zuntz extended his research to the field of high altitude physiology. In view of the variety of questions, and despite considerable methodological problems, Zuntz first studied the effects of lowered PO2 on the human body in a Pneumatischen Kammer (hypobaric chamber). In 1893 the newly completed Capanna Regina Margherita, an international research station at the top of Monte Rosa, Italy (4,500 m), became the site of Zuntz's extensive field studies, where he worked together with his close co-worker Adolf Loewy (1862-1936), the Italian Angelo Mosso (1846-1910), and the Austrian Arnold Durig (1872-1961). For their investigations Zuntz invented the transportable Gasuhr (a gas exchange measuring device). In 1902 Zuntz and the Austrian Hermann von Schroetter (1870-1928) made two balloon ascents up to 5,000 m in Berlin. A synopsis of these studies was published by Zuntz in 1906: his famous book "Höhenklima und Bergwanderungen" (High altitude climate and mountain-touring). A few years later Zuntz undertook further expeditions to the Canary Islands (Pico de Teide), conducting studies in airships and planes until 1914. Zuntz retired in 1916 and died in Berlin on March 22, 1920.

Aerospace Medicine↗

A survey of selected aviators' perceptions regarding Army crew endurance guidelines.

A 59-item questionnaire was administered to Army helicopter pilots from a variety of Army units to assess crew endurance issues. Analysis of 653 completed questionnaires indicated that respondents felt that the maintenance of aviator proficiency was more important than the fulfillment of only currency requirements in improving flight endurance. Approximately three-quarters of the respondents said that physical training was important to them personally, and 63% said that improved physical fitness reduces flight-related fatigue. With regard to the current crew endurance guide, only 1% of the respondents thought that the guide was exceptional and 65% said that they thought it should be rewritten. Adjustments were suggested for some of the recommended flight time limitations, to include liberalizing the factor associated with night-vision device flight. A majority of respondents indicated that data from either in-flight endurance evaluations or questionnaires administered to personnel in the field should be used to develop a new guide. Most respondents did not feel comfortable delegating responsibility for total crew endurance planning to unit commanders.

Adult↗

Questioning vision readiness in the aviation community of the United States Air Force.

A study was conducted to determine the prevalence of substandard visual acuity in a representative sample of the aviation community. In addition, mobility readiness (ocular), ocular diseases, length of time since last visual examination, and adherence to ocular requirements per AFR 160-43 were assessed. Comprehensive eye examinations were performed in the Optometry Clinic on 68 randomly chosen members scheduled by the participating squadron. Of the 68 individuals, 51 (75%) had not had a professional eye examination in the last 2 years, 17 (25%) were not mobility ready, 15 (22%) had inadequate visual acuity per AFR 160-43, and 3 (4%) had ocular disease. The study suggests that comprehensive visual examinations be performed on a regularly scheduled basis by an optometrist or ophthalmologist to ensure that members see properly to perform assigned duties, that members have required optical materials to be deployment ready, and that members who develop ocular diseases be identified in a timely manner.

Aerospace Medicine↗

An analysis of duty restrictions of aviation personnel in the Republic of Korea.

Aviation medical records were reviewed from four U.S. Army medical clinics in the Republic of Korea for flying duty restrictions over a 1-year time period. Duty restrictions were catalogued into 1 of 15 different diagnostic categories and compared by parameters of duration, time of year, crew status, age, and sex. Four hundred twenty-eight records were reviewed. Respiratory illnesses were the most common cause of flight restriction, followed by gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal problems. Flight personnel averaged 12.8 days a year on restrictions. Non-crewmembers were frequently not restricted for treatments that should have required restriction, but when restricted, averaged a significantly longer period of time than crewmembers. Females averaged significantly fewer days out for restrictions, and there were large differences in the number of days out by age for certain restrictions, but the numbers were small. There were some seasonal variation noted in patient visits with fewer visits in the spring and summer.

Absenteeism↗

Wide complex tachycardia in an asymptomatic aviator.

The case of a healthy aviator incidentally found to have an asymptomatic wide complex tachycardia on routine exercise treadmill testing is discussed. Electrophysiologic studies provided the diagnosis of AV nodal reentrant tachycardia (AVNRT) with aberrant conduction. Radio frequency modification of the AV node was performed with good results. Following the procedure, the reentrant tachycardia could not be induced either by repeat electrophysiologic testing or by an exercise treadmill test. The individual was returned to flight status in a restricted capacity.

Adult↗

Compromises in the visual field with the M43 aviation mask.

This study evaluated peripheral vision through the M43 protective mask currently worn by aviators in the AH-64 Apache helicopter. A Humphrey Visual Field Analyzer was used to measure the sensitivity of a subject's visual field with and without the mask. The results were analyzed using Dicon's Fieldview software. The monocular visual field was reduced for each eye when wearing the mask, especially superiorly and nasally. The overall size of the visual field was not reduced when both eyes were open; however, the quality of the visual field was reduced. The area of binocular vision (central binocular vision fusion field subserving stereopsis) was restricted to the central 30 degrees.

Adult↗

The effect of Aviation Officer Candidate's School on aerobic and anaerobic fitness.

The purpose of this study was to determine the effect of Aviation Officer's Candidate School (AOCS) on the aerobic and anaerobic fitness of the candidates. Thirty candidates were tested prior to and post-AOCS. Anaerobic measures included vertical jump and seated shot-put throw. A 1.5-mile run was used as an aerobic measure. Timed push-ups and sit-ups were used as overall strength and endurance measures. Body fat was assessed by OPNAV 6110.1 standards. Statistically significant increases were achieved in all areas, except for body fat and push-ups, which produced no significant changes.

Adipose Tissue↗

[Aviation and space flight ophthalmology].

So far it has not been possible to adapt man genetically to the specific environmental conditions of flying. A variety of disturbing factors act on the human body and affect its vital as well as sensory functions, vision being considered the most important sense for providing information. The effects of oxygen deficiency caused by increasing altitude, acceleration and centrifugal force affecting visual function, ocular motility, and pupillary reactions are well known. Like visual illusions, vibrations, high accelerative forces, high illuminance and glare at high altitudes impair the visual perception of the environment. In space flight further problems ensue from weightlessness and short-wave radiation. The high medical standards that must be met by the eyes of flying personnel, as will as for air-traffic controllers, result in the enhancement of flight safety. After operations on the cornea or retina or cataract operations in pilote, the retinal findings and DOP must be monitored closely. Special attention must be paid to means of visual aids, corrective lenses, contact lenses, and intraocular lenses. Ophthalmology is a very important element of aviation and aerospace medicine.

Eye Diseases↗

Radial keratotomy in the soldier-aviator.

Radial keratotomy (RK) is an ophthalmological procedure that alters the shape of the cornea, making it "flatter," causing the desired shift to farsightedness. Complications can be minor and "normal" in the immediate post-operative period, or can include problems that occur in many eyes, that persist but do not decrease best corrected visual acuity, or may include events that potentially or actually threaten vision and may produce blindness. At best, only 50% of patients can expect to have 20/20 uncorrected vision 2-3 years after surgery. Diurnal fluctuations in vision (two-five Snellen lines) can persist years after RK. Perhaps 1% of patients may have a two-three Snellen line loss of best corrected vision or ghost images that interfere with clear vision. Disabling glare can disrupt daily activities. Eyes that have undergone RK are at increased risk of corneal rupture after blunt eye trauma. The visual demands of the active duty military, and more dramatically the military aviator, are incompatible with RK. Therefore, RK should not be performed on active duty soldiers, nor should enlistees be accepted if they have undergone the procedure.

Aerospace Medicine↗

[The principles of aviation support for rescue-evacuation operations in eliminating the consequences of disasters].

Analysing practical results of an Air Force participation in liquidation of the earthquake consequences in Armenia, 1988, and after technological catastrophe in Bashkiria, 1989, the authors substantiate the role and significance of air transportation in the system of rescue and evacuation measures, define main tasks for aviation, propose methods for calculation of required number of aircraft and its types. The data cited in this article have formed a basis for the principles of air support during rescue and evacuation procedures.

Accidents↗

[Role of psychodynamic factors in the etiology of possible psychological disorders in aviators].

The main psychodynamic factors governing the psychological balance of aviators are examined. Their alteration often lies behind the psychological disturbances observed in such subjects. On the other hand, importance must also be given to the constitutional factor as the background for one syndrome or another. Examination of this question is regarded as indispensable in the formation of prognosis an the planning of treatment.

Aerospace Medicine↗

Melatonin efficacy in aviation missions requiring rapid deployment and night operations.

BACKGROUND: The rapid deployment of Army aviation personnel across time zones, combined with missions beginning immediately upon arrival, results in desynchronization of physiological and cognitive performance rhythms. Implementation of effective countermeasures enhances safety, health, well-being, and mission completion. The naturally occurring hormone melatonin has been suggested as an effective counter measure for jet lag and shift lag because of its influence on the human circadian timing system and its hypnotic properties. METHODS: The efficacy of melatonin (10 mg) in maintaining stable sleep/wake cycles of Army aircrews was tested during a training mission involving rapid deployment to the Middle East and night operations. Cognitive performance was tested before and after travel; activity rhythms were recorded continuously for 13 d. RESULTS: Melatonin treatment advanced both bedtimes and rise times (2-3 h) and maintained sleep durations between 7-8 h. Placebo treatment was mostly associated with longer advances in rise times than bedtimes resulting in shorter sleep durations (5-7 h). Upon awakening, the melatonin group exhibited significantly fewer errors (mean: 7.45) than the placebo group (mean: 14.50) in a dual-task vigilance test. CONCLUSION: Melatonin can be a useful treatment for the prevention of sleep disruptions and cognitive degradation, even in uncontrolled sleeping environments characteristic of military deployments.

Adult↗