Victoria University Antarctic Research Expedition Science and Logistics Reports 1993-94: VUWAE 38
Accident, Incidents or Hazards
Accident, Incidents or Hazards
Two medical evacuations were necessary during the expedition at Table Mountain. The first, Woolfe returned to Scott Base, then returned to New Zealand was caused by an infection in the upper jaw area. Although dentally related, a potential problem was not recognised in the mandatory dental examination. The second evacuation was required when Thornley reported to the Scott Base medical technician a green discolouration of a friction blister on his foot, and gangrene was suspected. After inspection of the foot by medical staff at McMurdo, Thornley returned to Table Mountain on the same day he was evacuated. The blister was caused by improper fitting Sorell boots, however, they were the largest size available.