Terrorist attacks with explosive weapons: Pattern of injuries and health constraints

Abstract

Terrorist attacks are on the rise and aim to create vast damage and large numbers of injured people. Explosive weapons became the predominant ordnance for terror-related events and more countries have to deal with the aftermaths of bombing incidents. These attacks can create mass-casualty emergencies and trigger complex pattern of injuries. This paper utilises eligible secondary literature to review these patterns of injuries and discusses the constraints for health systems. It appears that fragments of explosive weapons trigger the highest number of injuries. Subsequently, the predominant injuries can be researched in penetrating trauma and complex bone fractures. Triage can be researched as a key-task after terror-related bombings to minimise mortality amongst survivors. A close collaboration of all involved health staff will be required to adapt to bombing events. Additional training for health staff might be needed to adapt to terror bombings and the civilian health structure might benefit from experienced military medical forces.