Abstract
From an experience of a large number (1261) of cases of mountain frostbite, an attempt
is made to explain its pathophysiological mechanisms and describe the different modalities
which to now allow early prognosis to be made. Laser-Doppler, microwave thermography,
nuclear magnetic resonance (31P spectroscopy) and bone scintigraphy (technetium 99) are some of the investigations
which deserve a special attention. Treatment is discussed, which still appears to
be limited to saving viable tissue, especially for severe frostbite lesions, the only
ones which pose problems. Rapid rewarming is a keystone of therapy. The role of haemodilution,
vasodilators, sympathetic blockade and surgery is also discussed.
Key words
Cold - cold injuries - rewarming
