BASMU

The British Antarctic Survey Medical Unit (BASMU) is based at University Hospitals Plymouth (UHP) and is contracted to BAS to provide healthcare for those serving in the Antarctic.

There are three parts to this function:

• preparation and screening

• routine healthcare during deployment

• managing emergencies including dental emergencies

PDSE has a vital role ensuring the Doctors have the correct Dental training to be able to treat dental emergencies should they arise.  We run the course at our Devonport Dental Education Facility over 4 days. The course consists of basic dental anatomy, dental hygiene and prevention, dental materials, placement of temporary fillings, replacement of crowns, extractions & local anaesthetic.  The aim of the course is to build confidence and knowledge around dentistry, so that the Doctors are able to treat dental emergencies in an alien environment.  The Dental Outreach Team are responsible for the planning and delivery of the programme along with the restocking of equipment which is held down south.