Advanced surgical suite for trauma casualties (AZTEC)

摘要

Advanced vehicle-transportable field emergency medical systems comprising surgical suites deployable from core modules, each expanding to form an enclosed surgical or treatment room with perimeter tenting spaces, supplies and equipment. Two system versions are disclosed, each containing operating rooms, post operative beds, and a twenty plus bed triage capacity with unidirectional patient flow. The first surgical procedure can begin within one hour of delivery with a twenty patient cycle for twenty four hours. The surgical/treatment modules may also be deployed independently. Both system versions are transportable in a single C130 transport aircraft. Version AZ1 has smaller modules deployable by utility helicopter that include two operating suites, two post operative units, and also supply/communications and power units. Version AZ2 includes two modules each forming a combined surgical/post-operative unit, and also supply/communications and power units. Each lightweight core module deploys to form a room of over twice its original volume, exclusive of attached tented triage/post-op spaces. A combination of hinging side panels, floor plates, and telescoping space frames and cabinets create a sturdy self-locking core structure. An air filtration/conditioning system and passageway airlocks maintain positive pressure in the operating/post-op rooms for contamination prevention. The deployed system layout provides efficient patient movement and avoids cross-contamination. Lightweight tenting is supported from the deployed modules, e.g. by pylons/spars, panels and curved battens, creating an enclosed, compound surface which withstands weather loads. Telescoping, airlocked supply cabinets are accessible from the inside and outside of the operating room, to preserve positive pressure.