Saving Lives with the SWAT-T

There was a time, not so long ago, when the idea of applying a tourniquet to a patient was considered practically barbaric. But tourniquets are back in a big way, and the SWAT-T is making its mark. The SWAT-T is field proven with multiple saves, and it can be used as a primary tourniquet for severe hemorrhage, or as a secondary tourniquet/pressure dressing/elastic wrap for other trauma.

Says Matt Sena, MD, FACS, trauma/critical care surgeon, tactical physician, former 18D/NREMT-P, “The SWAT-T has several advantages over the other commercially available tourniquets. In terms of application, it’s the only device that can be used on children and small adults in its current form. Several of the available windlass tourniquets are too large for effective pediatric application. The wider profile of the SWAT-T decreases skin and soft tissue injury that can occur when using narrower, windlass tourniquets in geriatric and pediatric patients. In addition, the SWAT-T is one quarter the cost of the Combat Application Tourniquet.

“Most law enforcement agencies do not have the DoD budget and it’s unrealistic to think that will change,” Sena continues. “I’m not suggesting someone purchase a cheaper and ineffective device. To the contrary, the SWAT-T is very effective; however, if you want your device to save lives, it has to be available to the individuals most likely to use it on scene. The cost of the SWAT-T makes that a reality, not just an administrative recommendation.”

Sena explains the SWAT-T meets all of the requirements for field use—durability, low weight and cube space, and multifunctionality. It can be used as a tourniquet, a pressure dressing, an occlusive dressing for chest injuries and a splinting wrap. It doesn’t “expire” and can be reused nearly indefinitely in training.

Finally, Sena notes, “There is no perfect tourniquet. My professional opinion is that the SWAT-T is an excellent device. I’m aware of multiple cases where application of the SWAT-T by medics, law enforcement and physicians has saved lives in the setting of confirmed arterial injuries. For all of these reasons, I will continue to carry, teach and recommend the SWAT-T.”

Visit www.swattourniquet.com.