ABSTRACT
Caving activities share some medical hazards with other activities (climbing and diving in particular), but in addition a few are unique to the subterranean environment. Caves are restricted spaces formed by flowing water which present dangers from flooding, restricted air exchange, and unusual flora and fauna. Sections of the deepest caves may be among the most remote places on earth. Intercurrent illness therefore can be, and has been, fatal among cave explorers. Most medical problems are predictable; as data collected by the British Cave Rescue Council (Table 28.1) show, hypothermia and injuries from falls represent the majority of emergencies requiring evacuation from caves in the UK. Emergencies Requiring Cave Rescue in the United Kingdom 1989–98
|
Emergency |
Number |
(%) |
|---|---|---|
|
Upper limb injuries |
22 |
(12) |
|
Pelvis and lower limb injuries |
38 |
(21) |
|
Head injuries |
13 |
(7) |
|
Chest injuries |
7 |
(4) |
|
Spinal injuries |
19 |
(11) |
|
Multiple major trauma |
9 |
(5) |
|
Exhaustion and hypothermia |
45 |
(25) |
|
Medical conditions |
13 |
(7) |
|
Drowning |
11 |
(6) |
