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First Posted: 4/18/2013 2:34:00 AM

(AP) In the aftermath of the Boston Marathon bombings, rescuers turned to an age-old medical device to save lives the tourniquet.


They tied off bleeding limbs using belts, shirts and other materials. Doctors at Boston hospitals said such fast work no doubt saved many lives.


But as recently as a decade ago, emergency responders might have avoided the tourniquet. It was still caught up in a controversy about whether they were more trouble than they were worth.


However, studies from the Iraq war showed they were clear-cut lifesavers and they are now routinely issued to soldiers.


The American Red Cross continues to advise that direct pressure be applied to a wound except in extreme cases.


Associated Press