Combat Medical Systems won FDA approval for its atypical tourniquet, designed to prevent deaths from uncontrolled bleeding that most often takes place because of roadside and terrorist bombings.

This is the 1st device of its kind approved to treat unmanageable amputations and pelvic injuries, and it has already been shown to save lives based on limited use on soldiers in Afghanistan and traumatic civilian situations domestically, the company said. Uncontrolled bleeding is the number 1 cause of death in combat.

The Combat Ready Clamp is a vise-like tourniquet that can be applied in seconds to prevent junctional hemorrhaging. The Fayetteville, N.C., device maker, which was founded in 2008, already has a strong endorsement for this device from the U.S. Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care.

Combat Medical Systems worked with Wake Forrest University Baptists Medical Center and with the U.S. Army’s Institute for Surgical Research in San Antonio, Tex. to develop the technology.

“The Combat Ready Clamp is the 1st device available to treat junctional hemorrhage of the upper extremity on the battlefield or anywhere else, and Combat Medical Systems continues to lead the way in the best care for the nation,” said John Kragh of the U.S. Army in prepared remarks. “We in the military also continue to be impressed with their team which includes Wake Forest University in their commitment to the best care for these casualties.”