Dr. Eric Kerstman, MD, MPH, FAAPMR

Task impairment: A novel approach for assessing impairment during exploration-class spaceflight missions

Journal Article

Assessment of Sex-Dependent Medical Outcomes During Spaceflight

Journal Article

Estimating medical risk in human spaceflight

Journal Article

Gravitas: Medical Emergencies in Space

Lecture by Dr. Michael Harrison Q/A responses: 1. Are there thoughts of using devices like a Lucas or AutoPulse for CPR to alleviate the challenges with CPR or is the weight cost too high? "I asked this question 2 years ago at Texas, and the answer is no - weight is an issue. There may be a change in this due to different cohorts going into space in the future. We must consider post CPR care availability once CPR is effective (defibrillators are used only with shockable rhythms)." 2. How does one compensate for no activation of otoliths and proprioception that orients one to gravity? "A high proportion get space adaptation sickness. The condition is worse in high volume (wide open space) environments. There is no up or down. High performance fighter pilots who are used to intense G forces will still get super sick in space. Upon return, the otoliths respond and the astronauts will not turn their heads, they turn at hips or divert eyes to avoid getting sick, especially when removing their spacesuits. Phenergan is the general treatment, but sedation is challenging side effect, especially for pilots." 3. How much emergency medical training do the non-medical astronauts receive in training? "Basic First Aid, and very minimal. It is somewhat of an afterthought due to low risk groups being sent up and the other responsibilities required of astronauts." 4. What is the biggest medical problem you worry about? "Radiation. Jeff Chancellor is the guy to read papers from. Think about reproductive organs and how radiation can cause GI cancer, cataracts, etc. We can shield against it with lead, cement, or water." 5. How do we model treatment of space med scenarios on earth? "Eric Kerstman does the medical model system to develop medical capabilities for the ISS, which is being revised for what we need to send for Orion. Modeling is based on probability and medication overlap (for example by sending a second line med that can treat multiple conditions rather than the most specific medication for an issue. NASA has clerkships and he often assigns projects related to this." 6. Is there any leg up to become a space doc from being a military flight surgeon? "I'm not sure. There aren't a ton of aerospace med programs out there; UTMB is the major feeder to NASA flight surgeons. Some military flight surgeons have transitioned laterally later in career. I can't think of any on active duty."

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SUNY Downstate Medical School

Doctor of Medicine

Union College

Bachelor of Science

University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston

Master of Public Health

Medical Director

USI Insurance Services

Assistant Professor

UT Health Science Center at Houston

Medical Director

UnitedHealth Group