Field surgical intervention: an unusual case.

A case of crush injury to the lower extremities of an ironworker involved in the demolition of a bridge is presented. Extrication of the entrapped limbs was complicated by weakening of the bridge support due to acetylene torch cutting. After 3 hours the decision was made to complete the traumatic disarticulation of the right knee on site. Essential elements in the successful completion of such field intervention are presented and the unusual features of the case are emphasized.