European journal of applied physiology
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Eur. J. Appl. Physiol. · Jun 2019
Randomized Controlled TrialSuspension syndrome: a potentially fatal vagally mediated circulatory collapse-an experimental randomized crossover trial.
Suspension syndrome describes a potentially life-threatening event during passive suspension on a rope. The pathophysiological mechanism is not fully understood and optimal treatment unknown. We aimed to elucidate the pathophysiology and to give treatment recommendations. ⋯ Sudden pre-syncope during passive suspension in a harness was observed in 30% of the tests. Blood pools in the veins of the lower legs; however, a vagal mechanism finally leads to loss of consciousness. Time to pre-syncope is unpredictable and persons suspended on a rope should be rescued and put into a supine position as soon as possible.