Cleaning Wounds

Terry O’Connor, MD What’s the Magic Cleanser for wounds? Bottom line: Turns out it’s water . .  .  and lots of it. In this  meta analysis of 11 studies, tap water, distilled water, cooled boiled water, and normal saline were evaluated. The studies included wounds in kids and adults. Wound type included lacerations (five trials), chronic […]

Spring Touring

Terry O’Connor, MD SOME KEY SPRING TIME CONSIDERATIONS: Recent Avalanche activity Recent Precipitation and/ or wind Intense solar activity / First Sun Warm, above freezing temperatures on consecutive non-freezing nights or Rain Cornice failure Spring is a wonderful time for ski touring. Warm weather and sunny skies after fast moving storms can be a recipe […]

Avalanche Safety – Slope Angle

Terry O’Connor, MD A large problem with prime avalanche slopes is they are highly enticing to ride. This presents a challenge to all who are trying to have fun, yet ride safely in avalanche terrain. Recognizing  what slopes are prone to avalanching is an important part of making safe backcountry decisions. One of the best […]

Snowblind

Terry O’Connor, MD Clinic Day here on the Tibetan Plateau. Typically the queue is quiet and reserved. I am often amazed by serene, smiling, weather-worn and wrinkled faces . . a stark contrast to each calamity that hides underneath a bloody bandage or crooked arm. Today, however, one hunched over Yak herder, head in his […]