Accession Number:

ADA008883

Title:

Spinal Injury After Ejection.

Descriptive Note:

Advisory rept.,

Corporate Author:

ADVISORY GROUP FOR AEROSPACE RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT PARIS (FRANCE)

Personal Author(s):

• Auffret,R.
• Delahaye,R. P.

Report Date:

1975-02-01

Pagination or Media Count:

59.0

Abstract:

The statistical results of a survey conducted by 7 NATO Nations are analyzed, and the death rate as well as the rate and distribution of rachis fractures are given. Anatomical and physiological aspects are reviewed, and the pathogenic mechanism of fractures is discussed. In most cases, it is difficult to determine whether the rachis fractures occur when the seat is released or at landing. The pilots position in the seat plays a fundamental role in the success of the ejection. The radiological aspects of rachis fractures are described, and the stress is laid on the difference between stable and unstable fractures. The therapy applied and the durations of unavailability from duty are indicated. An x-ray examination of the whole spine is recommended after each ejection. The fitness criteria for combat aircraft pilots are reviewed and their strictness in most Air Forces emphasized.

Descriptors:

• *EJECTION
• *SPINAL COLUMN
• *BONE FRACTURES
• NATO
• PILOTS
• STATISTICS
• HUMAN FACTORS ENGINEERING
• SURVEYS
• THERAPY
• PHYSIOLOGY
• PATHOLOGY
• MAN MACHINE SYSTEMS
• ANATOMY
• PERSONNEL SELECTION
• MORTALITY RATE
• RADIOGRAPHY
• AEROSPACE MEDICINE
• ORTHOPEDICS

Subject Categories:

• Personnel Management and Labor Relations
• Medicine and Medical Research
• Human Factors Engineering and Man Machine Systems

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE