Methoxyflurane in early analgesic therapy by ski patrol members on Swiss ski slopes - an observational cohort study.

backgroundPain therapy is an important first-response measure in the pre-clinical care of trauma patients. Injured individuals on ski slopes are usually given first aid by members of the ski patrol. The early implementation of adequate pain therapy by these paramedical rescuers can increase patient satisfaction and have a positive effect on the entire treatment process. In this context, we analysed the administration of methoxyflurane by ski patrol members on Swiss ski slopes.

methodsIn this retrospective observational study, we evaluated 172 datasets, of which 149 concerned patients who were administered methoxyflurane. These datasets were taken from a quality-control survey related to the administration of methoxyflurane by members of the ski patrol in seven ski resorts in the Swiss Alps. The data was collected in the winter months of 2022/23. The ski patrol members had been previously trained by medical professionals and employed methoxyflurane following a defined algorithm, according to which patients with an initial numeric pain score of ≥ 4 qualified for the use of methoxyflurane. After each treatment, data on effectiveness and feasibility were collected by means of a standardised questionnaire. The primary outcome was defined as achieving effective pain therapy, which was designated as a reduction on the numerical rating scale of two or more points and a pain score of seven or less after administration. We then performed a linear regression analysis with the relative pain reduction as the outcome and sex, age, ski resort and injury class as covariates.

resultsMethoxyflurane led to effective pain reduction in around two-thirds of patients on the ski slopes and was easy to use for trained ski patrol members. Median pain reduction was 2 points (interquartile range: 1 to 3) on the NRS scale. The regression model showed lower reduction in pain in lower extremity injuries. Sex, age and initial pain score were not associated with the extent of pain reduction. No serious side effects were observed.

conclusionThe administration of methoxyflurane by trained ski patrol members is a safe and effective option for early pain management in ski slope injuries. Methoxyflurane could thus represent a useful bridging measure, enabling the ski patrol to relieve moderate to severe pain until professional rescue services arrive. However, it does not seem ideal for lower leg injuries.