Kobi Peleg, PhD MPH and Limor Aharonson-Daniel, PhD. Israel Center for Trauma and Emergency Medicine Research, Gertner Institute for Epidemiology and Health Services Research, Sheba Medical Center, Tel Hashomer, 52621, Israel, 972-3-5354252, kobip@gertner.health.gov.il

Background: terror related injuries have become a threat for populations all over the world. In Israel from 10/2000 to 12/03, 6049 people were injured and 904 killed by terror attacks. Many lessons have been learned from the necessity to deal with such a large number of frequent mass casualty events. This presentation aims to share the Israeli experience with other nations that may face the terror risk.

Methods: Analysis of national trauma registry data from October 2000 – June 2003.

Results: Lessons learned will be described and practical information on enhancing preparedness for treating terror casualties will be provided. Questioned answered include: Do casualties arrive to the hospital by order of severity?

How do new mechanisms of penetrating injuries affect triage?

How do you optimize the hospital ability to provide best possible care?

What are the implications of variability in injury pattern between Gunshot and explosion injuries on the hospitals?

Experience gained changed practice and approach to several issues. We wish to share the lessons learned with other countries which are under the risk of terror.

Learning Objectives:

• By the end of the session the audience will gain familiarity with various aspects of handling mass casualty events, identify factors which contribute to the severity and outcome of terror related injuries, know what can be expected under specific attack types and learn some of the most important implications for preparedness for such situations.

Keywords: EMS/Trauma, Injury

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.