An interesting case with excellent accompanying images, highlighting the significance of tourniquets in controlling exsanguination, whilst also raising the issue of amputation versus reconstruction in severely injured limbs.

A 39 year old male motorcyclist was BIBA to the Midland Regional Hospital in Tullamore, following a head-on collision with a bus at high velocity. On arrival, he was assessed via ATLS guidelines; A- intubated, B- respiratory rate 32, C - heart rate 140bpm, blood-pressure 55/15 and D- GCS 7/15. Injuries included partial traumatic amputation of the right lower limb with clearly visible posterior femoral condyles, a heavily comminuted distal tibial fracture and almost complete avulsion of the skin and fat at the popliteal fossa. Obvious massive blood loss at the scene had been tempered by a passer-by who applied a beach towel as a makeshift tourniquet. CT Brain demonstrated extra-dural and subarachnoid haemorrhages with gross midline shift. Unfortunately, the neurosurgical team in Beaumont concluded that surgical intervention would be inappropriate. However, his kidneys had not sustained ATN and were made available for donation.

Two vital surgical issues were featured in this case. Firstly, it highlighted the importance of tourniquets in controlling exsanguination in a trauma situation¹. Secondly, it raised the critical issue of amputation versus reconstruction in severely injured limbs^2,3.

Without prompt placement of a make-shift tourniquet by a passer-by, this patient would have almost certainly died at the scene of the accident. Two kidneys were successfully donated as a result.

The importance of appropriate tourniquet use cannot be overstated. This case highlights its potential life or limb-saving capabilities in emergency trauma situations. It also raises the critical issue of amputation versus reconstruction in acute emergency situations.