Page 107 - Journal of Special Operations Medicine - Winter 2014

different care situations. We should learn to appreci- We thank the authors and appreciate their efforts in ex-
ate that grossly angulated injuries represent unique and ploring this important discussion. We also respectfully
important facets of lower extremity care, those pertain- ask that any unsupported, unfounded, or broad-based
ing greatly to costly and debilitating patient morbidity. non–evidence-based conclusions regarding long-stand-
Additionally, discussion regarding traction applications ing patient care be reconsidered or retracted, even if
should include where and when it is appropriate or nec- only “opinion” as stated.
essary to use more supportive traction “splints” (RS)
that “provide a high degree of immobilization” versus References
lesser supportive “devices” that may require ancillary 1. MAJ J. Sandoval, US Army Disposition documents March
splinting equipment. We believe uniquely postured prod- 1987.
ucts such as the UNIVERSAL RS are clinically proven 2. Auerbach PS, Geehr EC, Ryu RK, The Reel Splint: experi-
to be better suited for a variety of lower extremity joint ence with a new traction splint apparatus in the prehospital
and bone angulations and femur traction cases as well. setting. Ann Emerg Med. 1984;13:419–422.
3. Heightman AJ. Articulated knee injuries placing proper
Adherence to study parameters is vitally important to emphasis on the recognition & stabilization of severely dis-
any practical well-defined product review and com- located knees. JEMS. 2004;29:46–55.
parison. Wandering from stated parameters and then 4. Reel Research and Development, Inc. www.splints.com (con-
drawing conclusions not grounded in “defined” study tact author for details on studies).
parameters and goals can be dangerous, negatively
affecting demonstrated patient care in a variety of mili- Roger W. Lee, President
tary settings outside the realm of “dismounted” field Reel Research and Development, Inc.
medicine alone. Ben Lomond, CA
E-mail: roger@splints.com

Portable imaging you can

depend on in the field.

UNPARALLELED PERFORMANCE AND UNSURPASSED
SERVICE HAS MADE MINXRAY THE GOLD STANDARD
IN DIGITAL RADIOGRAPHY.
Only MinXray delivers the quality, durability and
portability you depend on in the field. With more than
45 years of experience, you can rely on us,
wherever you go.

For more information, visit minxray.com
or call 1-800-221-2245.

Letter to the Editor 97