Thrombolytics (clot-dissolving medications) have a role in the treatment of severe frostbite in restoring circulation after the injury has been thawed. This hospital based treatment is time sensitive, and the sooner the treatment is started, the better. Patients exhibiting thawed severe frostbite should be evacuated to definitive care as soon as possible; preferably within several hours if possible.
These curricula recommendations have been adopted from NOLS Wilderness Medicine and have been edited to conform to the standards
set by Center for Wilderness Safety and the Wilderness Medical Society in accordance with the WMS National Practice Guidelines.