Suspension syndrome refers to a potentially life-threatening condition that can occur in unconscious persons after prolonged suspension in a harness. To date, our understanding of the pathophysiology and appropriate treatment is based primarily on case reports and expert opinion. The main pathophysiological hypothesis implicates blood pooling in the lower extremity and lack of return via muscle pumping. However, a recent French study could not support this hypothesis. Other mechanisms, such as a central vagal reflex may play a role in the pathophysiology of suspension syndrome. The aim of this study is to better understand the pathophysiological basis of suspension syndrome and to develop practical recommendations for prevention and treatment.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
BASIC_SCIENCE
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
20
Heart rate
Time frame: Change from baseline (measurement at minute 0) -> suspension phase (minute 10, timepoint immediately before interruption of suspension phase [max 60 minutes]) -> minute 5 and minute 15 after suspension phase
Blood pressure
Time frame: Change from baseline (measurement at minute 0) -> suspension phase (minute 10, timepoint immediately before interruption of suspension phase [max 60 minutes]) -> minute 5 and minute 15 after suspension phase
Change in maximal Diameter of superficial femoral vein
Ultrasound measurement of the Diameter of the superficial femoral vein in millimeters
Time frame: Change from baseline (measurement at minute 0) -> suspension phase (minute 10, timepoint immediately before interruption of suspension phase [max 60 minutes]) -> minute 5 and minute 15 after suspension phase
Change in interbeat-interval
electrocardiographic measurement of interbeat interval in milliseconds (ms)
Time frame: Change from baseline (measurement at minute 0) -> suspension phase (minute 10, timepoint immediately before interruption of suspension phase [max 60 minutes]) -> minute 5 and minute 15 after suspension phase
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