Head Face and Neck Surgeon Deployment in the New French Role 2: The Damage Control Resuscitation and Surgical Team

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction High-intensity conflict is back after decades of asymmetric warfare. With the increase in the incidence of head, face, and neck (HFN) injuries, the French Medical Military Service has decided to deploy HFN surgeons in the new French Role 2: the Damage Control, Resuscitation, and Surgical Team (DCRST). This study aims to provide an overview of HFN French surgeons from their initial training, including the surgical skills required, to their deployment on the DCRST. Materials and Methods The DCRST is a tactical mobile medico-surgical structure with several configurations depending on the battlefield, mission, and flux of casualties. It represents the new French paradigm for the management of combat casualties, including HFN injuries. Results The HFN’s military surgeon training starts during residency with rotation in the different subspecialties. The HFN surgeon follows a training course called “The French Course for Deployment Surgery” that provides sufficient background to manage polytrauma, including HFN facilities on modern warfare. We have reviewed the main surgical procedures required for an HFN military surgeon. Conclusion The systematic deployment of HFN surgeons in Role 2 is a specificity of the French army as well as the HFN surgeon’s training. Currently, the feedback from an asymmetric conflict is encouraging. However, it will have to innovate to adapt to modern warfare.