Orthopedic Injuries during Carrier Battle Group Deployments

Orthopedic injuries account for a large number of sick call visits during carrier battle group (CBG) deployments. The purpose of this study was to profile the orthopedic injuries during two CBG deployments to help both the line and medical communities better prepare their personnel and supplies. The current study confirmed that orthopedic injuries resulted in the greatest number of sick call visits to the CBG medical departments. Injury analysis revealed a significant number of hand/wrist and back/neck injuries during both carrier deployments. The groups with the highest number of injuries were the air squadrons and aircrews. These findings support the need for continued increased training and supplies for the care of orthopedic injuries. Emphasis should be placed on the care of hand/wrist and back/neck injuries. In addition, all CBG personnel should continue to improve their safety standards, especially in high-risk areas such as the aviation departments.