Efficiency of Rescue Paramedic Hoist versus Underslung Antenna in Helicopter-Based Avalanche Searches: A Randomized Trial.
Jostein Rødseth Brede, Arnfinn Storli, Brage Målsnes et al.
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In 30 seconds
This randomized experimental field trial compared helicopter-based avalanche transceiver searches using an underslung antenna or a hoisted rescue paramedic with a handheld transceiver. The on-duty Norwegian Search-and-Rescue helicopter crew completed 25 simulated searches across a 80 × 150-meter area. Rescue-paramedic hoist searches were faster to locate the buried transceiver: total time to discovery was 143 seconds shorter than with antenna searches (95% CI, 113 - 172; P <0.001). The hoist method was also faster to reach optimal signal and to place the paramedic on the ground.
Key findings
- Total time to transceiver discovery was 143 seconds shorter with RP Hoist Search (95% CI, 113 - 172; P <0.001).
- Time to Optimal Signal was 29 seconds shorter with RP Hoist Search (95% CI, 9 - 50).
- Time for RP on Ground was 124 seconds shorter with RP Hoist Search (95% CI, 98 - 151).
- RP Hoist Search also produced significantly faster fine search on the ground.
Why it matters
Avalanche survival is time-dependent, and the study notes that survival probability falls after 10-15 minutes of burial. In this simulated operational comparison, the hoist approach shortened localization time by more than two minutes, a potentially meaningful interval in time-critical rescue. The results provide comparative evidence about deployment efficiency, while not directly measuring victim survival.
What to keep in mind
The trial used simulated searches with one Norwegian SAR helicopter crew over three days; it did not assess real avalanche rescues or survival outcomes.