The Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet, the US Army’s newest medical device, is being issued to Soldiers serving in Iraq and Afghanistan. Designed for one-handed application, the SOFTT allows a Soldier to apply a tourniquet himself, replacing the Army’s field-expedient method in which Soldiers used a bandage and a stick to stop blood flow from a wound. The field-expedient method worked, “but the SOFTT is better,” said Sgt. 1st Class Michael C. Klemowski, serving with the Multi-National Force – Iraq personnel section. “Having this issued to Soldiers will cut down on casualties because it is a time- saving device,” said Klemowski, a former drill sergeant. “The less time that is wasted, the better chance there is of saving someone’s life.”
The new tourniquet is suitable for hard to reach injuries. The SOFTT’s strap can be released completely through the web clamp and then re-threaded, allowing for application to trapped limbs. Working on the same principles as all tourniquets, “(The SOFTT) is used to stop the bleeding from an extremity and to prevent shock,” said Staff Sgt. Thomas J. Brennan, Multi-National Corps - Iraq surgeon cell NCOIC.
The SOFTT has two latches used to secure the metal handle. While only one latch is required for the tourniquet to be effective, the extra latch provides extra securing ability, depending on the handle’s position after tightening.
To apply the tourniquet, one slides it over the limb and pulls the tail quickly. Once the slack is removed, twist the handle until bleeding is controlled and secure the latch. Finally, to prevent accidental loosening, tighten the screw on the belt.
The SOFTT is used as a last resort to treat a wound, Brennan said. “Try to stop the bleeding with a bandage,” Brennan said to a class of Soldiers learning how to use the new tourniquet. “After using a pressure dressing for five minutes, if the bleeding persists, use the tourniquet.”Once the tourniquet has been applied, check the pulse on either the hand or foot where the injury is. “No pulse means the tourniquet is working,” Brennan said.
The SOFTT is constructed of quality, high strength materials.
The tourniquet handle is machined from a solid piece of aircraft aluminum and maintains its strength in the most extreme temperature.
The tri-rings are molded Acetyl, a high impact plastic that will also maintain its strength in extreme temperature.
No velcro is used to maintain tension! This greatly reduces the change of accidental release of the tourniquet during patient movement.
Our buckle will also perform when dirty, muddy, wet or sandy. Blood+Sand = Mud. Velcro does not work when dirty…
Safety set screw prevents accidental release of pressure during tactical patient movement.
Dual locking rings provide a back up in the event of a broken ring.
Low maintenance – safety screws and buckles are now factory coated with a rust preventative /lubricant.
Repairable – The SOFT can be easily repaired if it is damaged. 550 cord, boot laces or zip ties can be used to replace the tri-rings.
SOF Tactical Tourniquet is the pinnacle of tourniquet technology. Light yet robust, it's designed to ensure absolute reliability in trauma and bleed control circumstances. Crafted using high-strength lightweight alloy, it boasts a 1.5” strap, offering superior arterial compression while maximising patient comfort. This tourniquet doesn't just stand out because of its weight at just 90g, but also its intuitive clip and buckle system, ensuring rapid, secure fastening even under stress. Its impeccable design minimises blood loss, potentially proving pivotal in emergency situations.
What sets the SOF Tactical Tourniquet apart is its versatility, being suited for a myriad of conditions, whether wet, sandy, or frozen, thanks to the absence of Velcro®. Developed in collaboration with frontline professionals, including soldiers and paramedics, it shines with its stability, effectiveness, and reliability. Furthermore, this binding system, known for its hemostasis prowess, can be reused both in practice and in real-world scenarios. It has passed rigorous testing by the US Army Institute of Surgical Research, highlighting its effectiveness. Simplistic in its use, it maintains consistent performance whether applied on an arm or leg. Designed for durability, the SOF®TT-W is ready to perform, irrespective of environmental challenges. It's not just a tool; it's a commitment to ensuring the highest level of care in critical moments.
The Special Operations Forces Tactical Tourniquet (SOFTT) is one of the tourniquets that has been approved and utilised by various branches of the U.S. military, including the U.S. Army, as part of their individual first aid kits (IFAKs). The SOFTT and the Combat Application Tourniquet (CAT) have been two of the more widely recognised and used tourniquets in military and civilian trauma care, with the C-A-T as the official #1 choice for the US Army.
Hi-Vis orange PE material spinal board.
Can also be used with head immobiliser.
X-ray compatible, due to its translucent properties.
Offers full body immobilisation.
High-density polyethylene plastic.
Impervious to bodily fluids.
Includes three straps.
Easy to clean.
Stretcher weight: 5.5kg.
Maximum load: up to 159kg.
Large kit suitable for a moderately sized sports team.
Also suitable for outdoor group activities such as camping, and hiking.
Designed to cater for common sporting injuries.
Sterile and alcohol-free.
Compliant with current HSE regulations.
Designed for all mandatory kits.
Extra strong soft fabric material.
Safe for all skin types.
For use in the detection and amplification of sounds associated with various organs of the human body.
Combination diaphragm and bell chestpiece.
PVC eartips.
Flexible PVC tubing.
Lightweight aluminium chestpiece
The SWAT-T, Stretch, Wrap and Tuck Tourniquet is a unique and multipurpose dressing that uses a non-latex elastic band that stretches around an extremity and tucks into itself for hours of effective pressure.
Its name provides a description for usage Stretch, Wrap, and Tuck while the graphics on the band indicate proper tourniquet pressure.
The SWAT-Tourniquet allows a more rapid means to control extremity bleeding and allows application higher into the groin and axilla than other tourniquets. Its ease of application is one of its greatest benefits; individuals can effectively apply it in seconds with little to no prior training.
It can also act as an occlusive bandage, a pressure dressing, and as an elastic bandage.
The band has been applied thousands of times and used in the sub-zero temps of Antarctica and boiled in water with no strength degradation.
