Leading A Surgical Team into Combat
摘要
Military surgeons serving as Forward Surgical Team (FST) commanders play a critical role in bridging battlefield injuries and higher-level care through damage control surgery in austere, high-stakes environments. This chapter outlines the structure and mission of FSTs, emphasizing rapid deployment, team readiness, and triage under resource-limited conditions. It explores the dual responsibilities of maintaining clinical excellence and leading soldiers in challenging settings, from managing mass casualties to balancing the care of allies and enemy combatants. By providing insights into the unique professional growth, leadership development, and emotional resilience required, this chapter highlights the fulfillment and career-defining impact of serving as an FST commander in military medicine.