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Freezing vs non freezing cold injuries

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

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freezing vs non freezing cold injuries


freezing cold injuries

non freezing cold injuries

formation of ice crystals in tissue

caused by slow temperature decrease in affected tissue with hypothermia, no direct frostbite

tissue damage is immediate

alternating phases of vasoconstriction and vasodilation in protracted hypothermia

direct damage of entire tissue by formation of ice crystals

incomplete damage of tissue, nerve fibers react at early stage

course often very protracted, complete recovery rare

four clinical phases

blister formation in stages II and III

blister formation rare

rewarming in warm water (37 to 39 °C) for 15 to 60 min

slow rewarming

sterile und protective bandages, topical antiseptics as required, splinting of affected extremities

slight loading of the affected area possible, no bandaging necessary

Reference:


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