[Red Flag 1]

Thanks SS!

A word to the wise.

Application of a tourniquet ("T") is a simple life saving measure that is frought with complications, as SS pointed out. Once the "T" is applied, all tissue below dies. Should the "T" be relaxed, any metabolic toxins from the dying tissue below enter systemic circulation and place the patient at risk of dying, 18 D's and medics know this. So why would anyone loosen or relax a "T"?

A "T" stops blood flow and after a time kills the nerves below, providing surgical anesthesia. In the process, it hurts like hell!! It is very compelling to respond to the patient's pleas to loosen the "T" just a bit. Bad move!!

My time in anesthesia practice has given me a respect for the amount of pain a "T" brings to the patient. From time to time, surgery on limbs have taken longer than thought. Limb surgey generally requires a "T". Long before there is any pain to the surgical site, "T" pain becomes an issue dictating a change from regional anesthesia to general anesthesia. A "T" hurts that much.

Think before using a "T".

My $.02.

RF 1