Summary: Trauma Stabilization Points (TSPs) represent the initial tier of professional, fully trained medical response equipped to provide trauma care. While the US military has used a similar system for years, the first non-military TSP implementation was in late 2016 as U.S.-backed Iraqi and Kurdish forces advanced on the city of Mosul, Iraq. TSPs formed the foundation of the Mosul trauma response and were instrumental in its success. Although encountering many logistical and funding challenges, TSPs in Iraq provided effective trauma care and served as a blueprint for future applications. In 2018, TSPs were established in Gaza when violence erupted between Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli security forces; these TSPs also had a profound impact on trauma outcomes. In the following years, TSPs were utilized in response to clashes in other areas, notably in 2021 in Jerusalem. Following the attacks of October 7, 2023, and Israel’s subsequent military operation, TSPs were implemented throughout the region. However, they have faced significant logistical and security challenges. In response to the 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine, many international organizations and local responders formed ad hoc trauma responses that complemented the established Ukrainian healthcare system, effectively managing the initial civilian trauma response. As the frontlines stabilized, the Armed Forces of Ukraine implemented TSPs, locally known as “STAB” points, throughout areas of active fighting. Ukrainian STAB points are characterized by increased capabilities, such as access to basic surgical interventions, labs, and imaging. They also differ by treating patients days after initial injury, which is uncommon in other settings. TSPs in Iraq, Gaza, and Ukraine have effectively addressed conflict related trauma by providing structured, adaptable medical interventions, whether for immediate stabilization or delayed patient reception. However, more comprehensive outcome data is essential to refine clinical and operational best practices.
Solchanyk et al. (Sun,) studied this question.