Overview of the rehabilitation of the combat casualty.

Abstract

Current military conflicts, including Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF), have presented unique challenges in the medical, surgical, and rehabilitation care of service members injured in a combat setting. Although modern body armor and advances in medical and surgical capabilities have resulted in a significant improvement in survival rates from severe injuries, rehabilitation strategies must adapt to keep pace with these advances. Rehabilitation of the combat casualty requires the integration of multiple professional disciplines to optimally address the complex medical and surgical conditions, challenging geographic limitations and unique psychosocial factors to meet the expectations of patients, families, government, and society.