Damage control resuscitation: A sensible approach to the exsanguinating surgical patient:

The 2023 WSES guidelines on the management of trauma in elderly and frail patients

BACKGROUND

The trauma mortality rate is higher in the elderly compared with younger patients. Ageing is associated with physiological changes in multiple systems and correlated with frailty. Frailty is a risk factor for mortality in elderly trauma patients. We aim to provide evidence-based guidelines for the management of geriatric trauma patients to improve it and reduce futile procedures.

METHODS

Six working groups of expert acute care and trauma surgeons reviewed extensively the literature according to the topic and the PICO question assigned. Statements and recommendations were assessed according to the GRADE methodology and approved by a consensus of experts in the field at the 10th international congress of the WSES in 2023.

RESULTS

The management of elderly trauma patients requires knowledge of ageing physiology, a focused triage, including drug history, frailty assessment, nutritional status, and early activation of trauma protocol to improve outcomes. Acute trauma pain in the elderly has to be managed in a multimodal analgesic approach, to avoid side effects of opioid use. Antibiotic prophylaxis is recommended in penetrating (abdominal, thoracic) trauma, in severely burned and in open fractures elderly patients to decrease septic complications. Antibiotics are not recommended in blunt trauma in the absence of signs of sepsis and septic shock. Venous thromboembolism prophylaxis with LMWH or UFH should be administrated as soon as possible in high and moderate-risk elderly trauma patients according to the renal function, weight of the patient and bleeding risk. A palliative care team should be involved as soon as possible to discuss the end of life in a multidisciplinary approach considering the patient's directives, family feelings and representatives' desires, and all decisions should be shared.

CONCLUSIONS

The management of elderly trauma patients requires knowledge of ageing physiology, a focused triage based on assessing frailty and early activation of trauma protocol to improve outcomes. Geriatric Intensive Care Units are needed to care for elderly and frail trauma patients in a multidisciplinary approach to decrease mortality and improve outcomes.

Surgical Science and the Evolution of Critical Care Medicine

Surgical science has driven innovation and inquiry across adult and pediatric disciplines that provide critical care regardless of location. Surgically originated but broadly applicable knowledge has been globally shared within the pages Critical Care Medicine over the last 50 years.

Advances in the Management of Coagulopathy in Trauma: The Role of Viscoelastic Hemostatic Assays across All Phases of Trauma Care

Uncontrolled bleeding is the leading cause of preventable death following injury. Trauma-induced coagulopathy can manifest as diverse phenotypes ranging from hypocoagulability to hypercoagulability, which can change quickly during the acute phase of trauma care. The major advances in understanding coagulation over the past 25 years have resulted from the cell-based concept, emphasizing the key role of platelets and their interaction with the damaged endothelium. Consequently, conventional plasma-based coagulation testing is not accurate in predicting bleeding and does not provide an assessment of which blood products are indicated. Viscoelastic hemostatic assays (VHA), conducted in whole blood, have emerged as a superior method to guide goal-directed transfusion. The major change in resuscitation has been the shift from unbridled crystalloid loading to judicious balanced blood product administration. Furthermore, the recognition of the rapid changes from hypocoagulability to hypercoagulability has underscored the importance of ongoing surveillance beyond emergent surgery. While the benefits of VHA testing are maximized when used as early as possible, current technology limits use in the pre-hospital setting and the time to results compromises its utility in the emergency department. Thus, most of the reported experience with VHA in trauma is in the operating room and intensive care unit, where there is compelling data to support its value. This overview will address the current and potential role of VHA in the seriously injured patient, throughout the continuum of trauma management.

The Association of Norepinephrine Utilization With Mortality Risk in Trauma Patients

INTRODUCTION

While the pillars of trauma resuscitation are surgical hemostasis and blood product administration, norepinephrine (NE) can be used as an adjunct. The goal of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the maximum dose of NE, timing of NE administration, and mortality in trauma patients.

METHODS

Patients admitted between January 2013 and January 2021 treated with NE were reviewed. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression were used to assess whether maximum NE dose was independently associated with mortality. Optimal dosage rates for NE were determined via Youden Index. Subgroup analyses comparing those who received NE within versus after the first 24 h of admission were conducted.

RESULTS

Three hundred fifty-first trauma patients were included, with 217 (62%) surviving. Patients who died received an average maximum dose of 16.7 mcg/min compared to 9.1 mcg/min in survivors (P = 0.0003). Mortality rate increased with dosage (P < 0.0001), with doses greater than 20 mcg/min having 79% mortality. Those who received NE within the first 24 h had an inflection point in mortality at 16 mcg/min (Youden = 0.45) (OR 1.06; 95% CI 1.03-1.10). For patients who received NE after the first 24 h, an inflection point in mortality was at 10 mcg/min (Youden = 0.34) (OR 1.09; 95% CI 1.04-1.14).

CONCLUSIONS

Higher maximum doses of NE were associated with increased mortality. Patients initiated on NE more than 24 h into their admission displayed an inflection point at a lower dose than those initiated later. This suggests that trauma patients initiated on NE after 24 h from injury may have a dire prognosis.

Expert surgeons and deep learning models can predict the outcome of surgical hemorrhage from 1 min of video

Major vascular injury resulting in uncontrolled bleeding is a catastrophic and often fatal complication of minimally invasive surgery. At the outset of these events, surgeons do not know how much blood will be lost or whether they will successfully control the hemorrhage (achieve hemostasis). We evaluate the ability of a deep learning neural network (DNN) to predict hemostasis control ability using the first minute of surgical video and compare model performance with human experts viewing the same video. The publicly available SOCAL dataset contains 147 videos of attending and resident surgeons managing hemorrhage in a validated, high-fidelity cadaveric simulator. Videos are labeled with outcome and blood loss (mL). The first minute of 20 videos was shown to four, blinded, fellowship trained skull-base neurosurgery instructors, and to SOCALNet (a DNN trained on SOCAL videos). SOCALNet architecture included a convolutional network (ResNet) identifying spatial features and a recurrent network identifying temporal features (LSTM). Experts independently assessed surgeon skill, predicted outcome and blood loss (mL). Outcome and blood loss predictions were compared with SOCALNet. Expert inter-rater reliability was 0.95. Experts correctly predicted 14/20 trials (Sensitivity: 82%, Specificity: 55%, Positive Predictive Value (PPV): 69%, Negative Predictive Value (NPV): 71%). SOCALNet correctly predicted 17/20 trials (Sensitivity 100%, Specificity 66%, PPV 79%, NPV 100%) and correctly identified all successful attempts. Expert predictions of the highest and lowest skill surgeons and expert predictions reported with maximum confidence were more accurate. Experts systematically underestimated blood loss (mean error - 131 mL, RMSE 350 mL, R² 0.70) and fewer than half of expert predictions identified blood loss > 500 mL (47.5%, 19/40). SOCALNet had superior performance (mean error - 57 mL, RMSE 295 mL, R² 0.74) and detected most episodes of blood loss > 500 mL (80%, 8/10). In validation experiments, SOCALNet evaluation of a critical on-screen surgical maneuver and high/low-skill composite videos were concordant with expert evaluation. Using only the first minute of video, experts and SOCALNet can predict outcome and blood loss during surgical hemorrhage. Experts systematically underestimated blood loss, and SOCALNet had no false negatives. DNNs can provide accurate, meaningful assessments of surgical video. We call for the creation of datasets of surgical adverse events for quality improvement research.

Autoresuscitation of Poloxamer 188 in Pigs With Traumatic Severe Hemorrhage

BACKGROUND

Poloxamer 188 (P188) is a copolymer surfactant with plasma membrane stabilizing action. This study investigated the effects of P188 on blood volume and coagulation in pigs after traumatic hemorrhage and hypotensive resuscitation.

METHODS

Femur fracture was performed in 17 anesthetized pigs, followed by hemorrhage of 55% of estimated blood volume and a 10 min shock period. Afterwards, pigs were randomized to be resuscitated with either normal saline (n = 9, 4 mL/kg, NS group) or P188 (n = 8, 1.33 mL/kg at 150 mg/mL, plus 2.67 mL NS/kg, P188 group). Pigs were monitored for 2 h or until death. Hemodynamics were recorded and blood samples were taken at baseline (BL), after hemorrhage, shock, resuscitation, and at 2 h for blood and coagulation analysis using Rotem®.

RESULTS

All but one pig in each group survived to 2 h. Femur fracture and hemorrhage reduced mean arterial pressure to half of the BL and elevated heart rate to double of the BL (both P < 0.05). Resuscitation with NS or P188 did not return these measurements to BL. Compared to NS, resuscitation with P188 resulted in a smaller reduction of blood volume (76 ± 3% in P188 and 60 ± 2% in NS); higher base excess (3.3 ± 0.9 vs. 0.5 ± 0.9 mM); and lower hematocrit (24 ± 1 vs. 28 ± 1%) and Ca++ (24 ± 1 vs. 28 ± 1 mM). Resuscitation with P188 prolonged aPTT (43 ± 12 vs. 22 ± 3 s, all P < 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Following traumatic hemorrhage and hypotensive resuscitation, P188 improved circulation volume and base deficit, but induced slower clotting initiation in pigs. Thus, P188 may have limited benefit as an initial small volume resuscitation adjunct following hemorrhage.

[Blast injuries part 2 : Principles of medical treatment]

Explosions can cause severe injuries, which affect multiple organ systems and leave extensive soft tissue defects. In unstable patients, damage control surgery initially focuses exclusively on controlling bleeding and contamination with the aim of preserving life and limbs. The excision of all necrotic tissue, extensive wound irrigation with antiseptic solutions and a calculated antibiotic prophylaxis, which is subsequently adapted to the microbiological findings, are the basis for sufficient infection control. As the tissue damage caused by the pressure surge can regenerate over time as well as become secondarily necrotic (developing wounds), several revision operations are often necessary to assess the viability of tissue in the sense of serial debridement. In the case of extensive soft tissue injuries temporary vacuum-assisted closure (VAC) techniques can bridge the time to the earliest possible definitive plastic surgical wound closure; however, this must not delay the closure of the defect.

"Assessing the hemodynamic impact of various inotropes combination in patients with cardiogenic shock with Non-ST elevation myocardial infarction -the ANAPHOR study"

BACKGROUND

Various inotropic agents/vasopressors combinations are used in patients of cardiogenic shock. We performed this study to observe hemodynamic effects of various inotrope/vasopressor combinations in patients with NSTEMI cardiogenic shock (CS) at tertiary cardiac centre METHODS AND MATERIALS: Of 3832 NSTEMI, we studied 59 consecutive such patients with CS who hadn't undergone revascularization in the first 24 h in a prospective, open label, observational study. Group 1 comprised of background Dopamine with Noradrenaline titration(N = 38), Group 2 had background Dobutamine and Noradrenaline titration(N = 15) and Group 3 comprised of triple combination of Dopamine, Noradrenaline & Adrenaline(N = 6).

RESULTS

The mean change in hemodynamic parameters between these groups from baseline to 24 h showed no statistical difference. Cardiac output(CO), mean arterial pressure(MAP), central venous pressure(CVP) and cardiac power output(CPO) in group 2 were favorable at 6 and 24 h compared to baseline but mean change was insignificant as compared to others. In group 3, the increase in MAP was significant. IABP use did not change CO, CPO or SVR in any group except lower dosages of Dobutamine (49%) in IABP group. Lower in-hospital mortality in group 2 compared to others (P = 0.004) may be reflective of sicker patients in group 1 and 3.

CONCLUSION

The mean changes in hemodynamic parameters were not significant between all groups. All regimes of inotropes when selected as per clinical indication in CS with ACS resulted in similar hemodynamic effects. The mortality difference may not truly be reflective of regimes rather reflect sicker patients in the higher mortality group.

Pre-hospital hypothermia is associated with transfusion risk after traumatic injury

OBJECTIVES

In traumatically injured patients, excessive blood loss necessitating the transfusion of red blood cell (RBC) units is common. Indicators of early RBC transfusion in the pre-hospital setting are needed. This study aims to evaluate the association between hypothermia (<36°C) and transfusion risk within the first 24 hours after arrival to hospital for a traumatic injury.

METHODS

We completed an audit of all traumatically injured patients who had emergent surgery at a single tertiary care center between 2010 and 2014. Using multivariable logistic regression analysis, we evaluated the association between pre-hospital hypothermia and transfusion of ≥1 unit of RBC within 24 hours of arrival to the trauma bay.

RESULTS

Of the 703 patients included to evaluate the association between hypothermia and RBC transfusion, 203 patients (29%) required a transfusion within 24 hours. After controlling for important confounding variables, including age, sex, coagulopathy (platelets and INR), hemoglobin, and vital signs (blood pressure and heart rate), hypothermia was associated with a 68% increased odds of transfusion in multivariable analysis (OR: 1.68; 95% CI: 1.11-2.56).

CONCLUSIONS

Hypothermia is strongly associated with RBC transfusion in a cohort of trauma patients requiring emergent surgery. This finding highlights the importance of early measures of temperature after traumatic injury and the need for intervention trials to determine if strategies to mitigate the risk of hypothermia will decrease the risk of transfusion and other morbidities.

Severe traumatic brain injury and hypotension is a frequent and lethal combination in multiple trauma patients in mountain areas - an analysis of the prospective international Alpine Trauma Registry

BACKGROUND

Hypotension is associated with worse outcome in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and maintaining a systolic blood pressure (SBP) ≥110 mmHg is recommended. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of TBI in patients suffering multiple trauma in mountain areas; to describe associated factors, treatment and outcome compared to non-hypotensive patients with TBI and patients without TBI; and to evaluate pre-hospital variables to predict admission hypotension.

METHODS

Data from the prospective International Alpine Trauma Registry including mountain multiple trauma patients (ISS ≥ 16) collected between 2010 and 2019 were analysed. Patients were divided into three groups: 1) TBI with hypotension, 2) TBI without hypotension and 3) no TBI. TBI was defined as Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) of the head/neck ≥3 and hypotension as SBP < 110 mmHg on hospital arrival.

RESULTS

A total of 287 patients were included. Fifty (17%) had TBI and hypotension, 92 (32%) suffered TBI without hypotension and 145 (51%) patients did not have TBI. Patients in group 1 were more severely injured (mean ISS 43.1 ± 17.4 vs 33.3 ± 15.3 vs 26.2 ± 18.1 for group 1 vs 2 vs 3, respectively, p < 0.001). Mean SBP on hospital arrival was 83.1 ± 12.9 vs 132.5 ± 19.4 vs 119.4 ± 25.8 mmHg (p < 0.001) despite patients in group 1 received more fluids. Patients in group 1 had higher INR, lower haemoglobin and lower base excess (p < 0.001). More than one third of patients in group 1 and 2 were hypothermic (body temperature < 35 °C) on hospital arrival while the rate of admission hypothermia was low in patients without TBI (41% vs 35% vs 21%, for group 1 vs 2 vs 3, p = 0.029). The rate of hypothermia on hospital arrival was different between the groups (p = 0.029). Patients in group 1 had the highest mortality (24% vs 10% vs 1%, p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Multiple trauma in the mountains goes along with severe TBI in almost 50%. One third of patients with TBI is hypotensive on hospital arrival and this is associated with a worse outcome. No single variable or set of variables easily obtainable at scene was able to predict admission hypotension in TBI patients.

Resuscitation of the Critically Ill Older Adult

In 30 years, adults 65 and older will represent 20% of the US population, with increased medical comorbidities leading to higher rates of critical illness and mortality. Despite significant acute illness, presenting symptoms and vital sign abnormalities may be subtle. Resuscitative guidelines are a helpful starting point but appropriate diagnostics, bedside ultrasound, and frequent reassessments are needed to avoid procrustean care that may worsen outcomes. Baseline functional status is as important as underlying comorbid conditions when prognosticating, and the patient's personal wishes should be sought early and throughout care with clear communication regarding prospects for immediate survival and overall recovery.

The influence of hydrogen ions on coagulation in traumatic brain injury, explored by molecular dynamics

Background: Patients in intensive care units with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) frequently present acid-base abnormalities and coagulability disorders, which complicate their condition.Objective: To identify protonation through in silico simulations of molecules involved in the process of coagulation in standard laboratory tests.Materials and methods: Ten patients with TBI were selected from the intensive care unit in addition to ten "healthy control subjects", and another nine patients as "disease control subjects"; the latter being a comparative group, corresponding to subjects with diabetes mellitus 2 (DM2). Fibrinogen, FVII, FVIII, FIX, FX, and D-dimer in the presence of acidification were evaluated in 20 healthy subjects in order to compare clinical results with molecular dynamics (MD), and to explain proton interactions and coagulation molecules.Results: The TBI group presented a slight, non-significant increase in D-dimer; but this was not present in "disease control subjects". Levels of fibrinogen, FVII, FIX, FX, and D-dimer were affected in the presence of acidification. We observed that various specific residues of coagulation factors "trap" ions.Conclusion: Protonation of tissue factor and factor VIIa may favor anticoagulant mechanisms, and protonation does not affect ligand binding sites of GPIIb/IIIa (PAC1) suggesting other causes for the low affinity to PAC1.

The Effect of Blood Transfusion during Air Medical Transport on Transport Times in Patients with Ruptured Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

Background: Patients presenting with a diagnosis of ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm (RAAA) to community hospitals must be transported to tertiary care centers, where necessary resources are available. Unfortunately, guidelines for treatment of RAAA lack high-level evidence on the optimal resuscitation of RAAA patients during transport. We hypothesized that transfusion of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) during transport would not delay transport times in patients with RAAA. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of a prospective registry including prehospital data of patients with RAAA presenting to a single academic hospital in Western Pennsylvania between 2001 and 2019. Our primary outcomes were prehospital transport times: "transport interval" and "total interval." "Transport interval" is the duration from patient pickup at the outside hospital (OSH) to arrival at the receiving facility. "Total interval" is the duration from dispatch of the air medical transport to arrival of the patient to the receiving facility. We then compared two groups of patients, stratified by the receipt of PRBCs in transit, by reporting mean difference (95% confidence interval: CI) for continuous variables and percent difference (95% CI) for categorical variables. We performed two multivariate linear regression models to test if there was any effect of the receipt of PRBCs in transit on transport times. Results: We included 271 patients with RAAA transported by our air ambulance system who underwent an operation at the receiving facility, 99 (37%) of whom received PRBCs in transit. Mean ± standard deviation (SD) of the total intervals were 67 ± 28 and 71 ± 42 minutes, among patients who received or did not receive PRBCs in transit respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.437). Following adjusted analysis, the receipt of PRBCs during transport was not associated with increased transport times, after accounting for age, hypotension, endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR), and PRBC transfusion at the OSH. Conclusion: PRBC transfusion during air medical transport in patients with RAAA did not delay transport times.

Intra-abdominal Hypertension and the Open Abdomen: Nursing Guidelines From the Abdominal Compartment Society

Intra-abdominal hypertension has been identified as an independent risk factor for death in critically ill patients. Known risk factors for intra-abdominal hypertension indicate that intra-abdominal pressures should be measured and monitored. The Abdominal Compartment Society has identified medical and surgical interventions to relieve intra-abdominal hypertension or to manage the open abdomen if abdominal compartment syndrome occurs. The purpose of this article is to describe assessments and interventions for managing intra-abdominal hypertension and open abdomen that are within the scope of practice for direct-care nurses. These guidelines provide direction to critical care nurses caring for these patients.

Evaluation of blood product transfusion therapies in acute injury care in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

Worldwide, injuries account for approximately five million mortalities annually, with 90% occurring in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Although guidelines characterizing data for blood product transfusion in injury resuscitation have been established for high-income countries (HICs), no such information on use of blood products in LMICs exists. This systematic review evaluated the available literature on the use and associated outcomes of blood product transfusion therapies in LMICs for acute care of patients with injuries.

METHODS

A systematic search of PubMed, EMBASE, Global Health, CINAHL and Cochrane databases through November 2018 was performed by a health sciences medical librarian. Prospective and cross-sectional reports of injured patients from LMICs involving data on blood product transfusion therapies were included. Two reviewers identified eligible records (κ=0.92); quality was assessed using Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) criteria. Report elements, patient characteristics, injury information, blood transfusion therapies provided and mortality outcomes were extracted and analyzed.

RESULTS

Of 3411 records, 150 full-text reports were reviewed and 17 met inclusion criteria. Identified reports came from the World Health Organization regions of Africa, the Eastern Mediterranean, and South-East Asia. A total of 6535 patients were studied, with the majority from exclusively inpatient hospital settings (52.9%). Data on transfusion therapies demonstrated that packed red blood cells were given to 27.0% of patients, fresh frozen plasma to 13.8%, and unspecified product types to 50.1%. Among patients with blunt and penetrating injuries, 5.8% and 15.7% were treated with blood product transfusions, respectively. Four reports provided data on comparative mortality outcomes, of which two found higher mortality in blood transfusion-treated patients than in untreated patients at 17.4% and 30.4%. The overall quality of evidence was either low (52.9%) or very low (41.2%), with one report of moderate quality by GRADE criteria.

CONCLUSION

There is a paucity of high-quality data to inform appropriate use of blood transfusion therapies in LMIC injury care. Studies were geographically limited and did not include sufficient data on types of therapies and specific injury patterns treated. Future research in more diverse LMIC settings with improved data collection methods is needed to inform injury care globally.

Whole blood transfusion versus component therapy in adult trauma patients with acute major haemorrhage

OBJECTIVE

In the era of damage control resuscitation of trauma patients with acute major haemorrhage, transfusion practice has evolved to blood component (component therapy) administered in a ratio that closely approximates whole blood (WB). However, there is a paucity of evidence supporting the optimal transfusion strategy in these patients. The primary objective was therefore to establish if there is an improvement in survival at 30 days with the use of WB transfusion compared with blood component therapy in adult trauma patients with acute major haemorrhage.

METHODOLOGY

A systematic literature search was performed on 15 December 2019 to identify studies comparing WB transfusion with component therapy in adult trauma patients and mortality at 30 days. Studies which did not report mortality were excluded. Methodological quality of included studies was interpreted using the Cochrane risk of bias tool, and rated using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

RESULTS

Search of the databases identified 1885 records, and six studies met the inclusion criteria involving 3255 patients. Of the three studies reporting 30-day mortality (one randomised controlled trial (moderate evidence) and two retrospective (low and very low evidence, respectively)), only one study demonstrated a statistically significant difference between WB and component therapy, and two found no statistical difference. Two retrospective studies reporting in-hospital mortality found no statistical difference in unadjusted mortality, but both reported statistically significant logistic regression analyses demonstrating that those with a WB transfusion strategy were less likely to die.

CONCLUSION

Recognising the limitations of this systematic review relating to the poor-quality evidence and limited number of included trials, it does not provide evidence to support or reject use of WB transfusion compared with component therapy for adult trauma patients with acute major haemorrhage.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42019131406.

Pre-hospital transfusion of red blood cells. Part 1: A scoping review of current practice and transfusion triggers

OBJECTIVES

The primary aim of this scoping review is to describe the current use of pre-hospital transfusion of red blood cells (PHTRBC) and to evaluate criteria used to initiate PHTRBC. The effects on patients' outcomes will be reviewed in Part 2.

BACKGROUND

Haemorrhage is a preventable cause of death in trauma patients, and transfusion of red blood cells is increasingly used by Emergency Medical Services (EMS) for damage control resuscitation. However, there are no guidelines and little consensus on when to initiate PHTRBC.

METHODS

PubMed and Web of Science were searched through January 2019; 71 articles were included.

RESULTS

Transfusion triggers vary widely and involve vital signs, clinical signs of poor tissue perfusion, point of care measurements and pre-hospital ultrasound imaging. In particular, hypotension (most often defined as systolic blood pressure ≤ 90 mmHg), tachycardia (most often defined as heart rate ≥ 120/min), clinical signs of poor perfusion (eg, prolonged capillary refill time or changes in mental status) and injury type (ie, penetrating wounds) are common pre-hospital transfusion triggers.

CONCLUSIONS

PHTRBC is increasingly used by Emergency Medical Services, but guidelines on when to initiate transfusion are lacking. We identified the most commonly used transfusion criteria, and these findings may provide the basis for consensus-based pre-hospital transfusion protocols.

Pre-hospital transfusion of red blood cells. Part 2: A systematic review of treatment effects on outcomes

The primary aim of this systematic review is to describe the effects of prehospital transfusion of red blood cells (PHTRBC) on patient outcomes. Damage control resuscitation attempts to prevent death through haemorrhage in trauma patients. In this context, transfusion of red blood cells is increasingly used by emergency medical services (EMS). However, evidence on the effects on outcomes is scarce. PubMed and Web of Science were searched through January 2019; 55 articles were included. No randomised controlled studies were identified. While several observational studies suggest an increased survival after PHTRBC, consistent evidence for beneficial effects of PHTRBC on survival was not found. PHTRBC appears to improve haemodynamic parameters, but there is no evidence that shock on arrival to hospital is averted, nor of an association with trauma induced coagulopathy or with length of stay in hospitals or intensive care units. In conclusion, PHTRBC is increasingly used by EMS, but there is no strong evidence for effects of PHTRBC on mortality. Further research with study designs that allow causal inferences is required for more conclusive evidence. The combination of PHTRBC with plasma, as well as the use of individualised transfusion criteria, may potentially show more benefits and should be thoroughly investigated in the future. The review was registered at Prospero (CRD42018084658).

Damage control resuscitation

The United States Navy originally utilized the concept of damage control to describe the process of prioritizing the critical repairs needed to return a ship safely to shore during a maritime emergency. To pursue a completed repair would detract from the goal of saving the ship. This concept of damage control management in crisis is well suited to the care of the critically ill trauma patient, and has evolved into the standard of care. Damage control resuscitation is not one technique, but, rather, a group of strategies which address the lethal triad of coagulopathy, acidosis, and hypothermia. In this article, we describe this approach to trauma resuscitation and the supporting evidence base.

Fresh frozen plasma-to-red blood cell ratio is an independent predictor of blood loss in patients with neuromuscular scoliosis undergoing posterior spinal fusion

PURPOSE

In major trauma with massive blood loss, higher fresh frozen plasma (FFP)-to-red blood cell (RBC) ratios have been associated with improved morbidity and mortality. Our population of patients with neuromuscular scoliosis undergoing posterior spinal fusion (PSF) often lose volumes of blood considered massive, that is, half a blood volume in 3 hours. In this retrospective cohort study, we examined the association of FFP ratio with blood loss in this elective surgical population.

METHODS

Patients with neuromuscular scoliosis undergoing PSF with unit rod fixation were identified from our anesthesia cases database. The patients were divided into two groups: the low FFP group received FFP-to-RBC≤0.5, and the high FFP group received FFP-to-RBC>0.5. After controlling for a false discovery rate in the univariate analysis, a logistic and linear regression was performed to understand the contribution of the significant factors associated with increased blood loss.

RESULTS

Risk estimation showed that patients in the low FFP group were more likely to lose >120% blood volume (odds ratio, 3.87; 95% confidence interval, 2.03-7.38). Linear regression revealed that each unit of increase in FFP-to-RBC ratio was associated with a 27.5% (95% confidence interval, -43.12-11.89) mean reduction in blood volume loss.

CONCLUSIONS

In our retrospective study, we found that FFP-to-RBC ratio was significant independent predictor of blood loss in this group of complex spine patients undergoing PSF. Thus, in patients with neuromuscular scoliosis undergoing posterior spine fusion, use of higher ratio of FFP to RBC may decrease blood loss.

Modern Management of Bleeding, Clotting, and Coagulopathy in Trauma Patients: What Is the Role of Viscoelastic Assays?

Purpose of Review

The purpose of this review is to briefly outline the current state of hemorrhage control and resuscitation in trauma patients with a specific focus on the role viscoelastic assays have in this complex management, to include indications for use across all phases of care in the injured patient.

Recent Findings

Viscoelastic assay use to guide blood-product resuscitation in bleeding trauma patients can reduce mortality by up to 50%. Viscoelastic assays also reduce total blood products transfused, reduce ICU length of stay, and reduce costs. There are a large number of observational and retrospective studies evaluating viscoelastic assay use in the initial trauma resuscitation, but only one randomized control trial. There is a paucity of data evaluating use of viscoelastic assays in the operating room, post-operatively, and during ICU management in trauma patients, rendering their use in these settings extrapolative/speculative based on theory and data from other surgical disciplines and settings.

Summary

Both hypocoagulable and hypercoagulable states exist in trauma patients, and better indicate what therapy may be most appropriate. Further study is needed, particularly in the operating room and post-operative/ICU settings in trauma patients.

Thoracic compartment syndrome after penetrating heart and lung injury

Thoracic injuries are the most lethal penetrating injuries. After attempting suicide, two patients with a penetrating thoracic wound were admitted to our emergency department. During CT scan they became hemodynamically unstable, which is why we had to perform an emergency thoracotomy. In both cases, a perforation in the left ventricle as well as multiple lesions of the lung parenchyma and vessel injuries were found. After the treatment of the different injuries, a massive edema of the heart and lung prevented a primary closure of the thorax. Due to massive diffuse bleeding, a "packing" of the pleural cavity became necessary. To prevent a thoracic compartment syndrome, the thoracic wall was left open and the skin was closed with a plastic sheet. Due to the "open chest" procedure combined with "packing" of the thoracic cavity, the majority of patients with an edema of the heart and lung after a penetrating chest injury can be saved. Pitfalls of preclinical and clinical treatment, aspects of diagnostics and surgery are discussed.

G, Guillaume M, Husson E, Donneau AF, Poplavsky JL, Minon JM, Ghuysen A. Impact of a prehospital discrimination between trauma patients with or without early acute coagulopathy of trauma and the need for damage control resuscitation: rationale and design of a multicenter randomized phase II trial

BACKGROUND

The evidence of the Trauma Induced Coagulopathy Clinical Score (TICCS) accuracy has been evaluated in several studies but the potential effect of its use on patient outcomes needs to be evaluated. The primary objective of this study is to evaluate the impact on mortality of a prehospital discrimination between trauma patients with or without a potential need for damage control resuscitation.

METHODS

The trial will be designed as randomized phase II clinical trial with comparison of the experimental protocol against the standard of care. The TICCS will be calculated on the site of injury for the patients of the intervention group and treatment will be guided by the TICCS value. Seven days mortality, 30 days mortality, global use of blood products and global hospital length-of-stay will be compared.

DISCUSSION

Many data suggest that a very early flagging of trauma patients in need for DCR would be beneficial but this need to be proved. Do we improve our quality of care by an earlier diagnosis? Does a prehospital discrimination between trauma patients with or without a potential need for DCR has a positive impact?

Blood transfusion management in the severely bleeding military patient

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Hemorrhage remains the primary cause of preventable death on the battlefield and in civilian trauma. Hemorrhage control is multifactorial and starts with point-of-injury care. Surgical hemorrhage control and time from injury to surgery is paramount; however, interventions in the prehospital environment and perioperative period affect outcomes. The purpose of this review is to understand concepts and strategies for successful management of the bleeding military patient. Understanding the life-threatening nature of coagulopathy of trauma and implementing strategies aimed at full spectrum hemorrhage management from point of injury to postoperative care will result in improved outcomes in patients with life-threatening bleeding.

RECENT FINDINGS

Timely and appropriate therapies impact survival. Blood product resuscitation for life-threatening hemorrhage should either be with whole blood or a component therapy strategy that recapitulates the functionality of whole blood. The US military has transfused over 10 000 units of whole blood since the beginning of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. The well recognized therapeutic benefits of whole blood have pushed this therapy far forward into prehospital care in both US and international military forces. Multiple hemostatic adjuncts are available that are likely beneficial to the bleeding military patient; and other products and techniques are under active investigation.

SUMMARY

Lessons learned in the treatment of combat casualties will likely continue to have positive impact and influence and the management of hemorrhage in the civilian trauma setting.

A systematic review of massive transfusion protocol in obstetrics

Post-partum obstetric haemorrhage is a leading cause of mortality among Japanese women, generally treated with haemostatic measures followed by supplementary transfusion. Commonly used in the setting of severe trauma, massive transfusion protocols (MTPs), preparations of red blood cell concentrate (RBC) and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) with additional supplements, have proved effective in decreasing patient mortality following major obstetric bleeding events. Although promising, the optimal configuration of RBC and FFP utilized for obstetric bleeding needs to be verified. Here, we conducted a systematic literature review to define the optimal ratio of RBC to FFP for transfusion therapy during instances of obstetric bleeding. Our analysis extracted four retrospective, observational studies, all demonstrating that an FFP/RBC ratio of ≥1 was associated with improved patient outcomes following obstetric haemorrhage. We therefore conclude that, from the standpoint of haemostatic resuscitation, an FFP/RBC ratio of ≥1 is a necessary condition for optimal clinical management during MTP administration in the field of obstetrics. Hence, we further propose an optimized MTP strategy to be utilized in the setting of severe obstetric bleeding.

Early identification of trauma patients in need for emergent transfusion: results of a single-center retrospective study evaluating three scoring systems

BACKGROUND

The Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy Clinical Score (TICCS) was developed to be calculable on the site of injury to discriminate between trauma patients with or without the need for damage control resuscitation and thus transfusion. This early alert could then be translated to in-hospital parameters at patient arrival. Base excess (BE) and ultrasound (FAST) are known to be predictive parameters for emergent transfusion. We emphasize that adding these two parameters to the TICCS could improve the scoring system predictability.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted in the University Hospital of Liège. TICCS was calculated for every patient. BE and FAST results were recorded and points were added to the TICCS according to the TICCS.BE definition (+ 3 points if BE < - 5 and + 3 points in case of a positive FAST). Emergent transfusion was defined as the use of at least one blood product in the resuscitation room. The capacity of the TICCS, the TICCS.BE and the Trauma-Associated Severe Hemorrhage (TASH) to predict emergent transfusion was assessed.

RESULTS

A total of 328 patients were included. Among them, 14% needed emergent transfusion. The probability for emergent transfusion grows with the TICCS and the TICCS.BE values. We did not find a significant difference between the TICCS (AUC 0.73) and the TICCS.BE (AUC 0.76). The TASH proved to be more predictive (AUC 0.89). 66.6% of the patients with a TICCS ≥ 10 and 81.5% with a TICCS.BE ≥ 14 required emergent transfusion.

CONCLUSION

Adding BE and FAST to the original TICCS does not significantly improve the scoring system predictability. A prehospital TICCS > 10 could be used as a trigger for emergent transfusion activation. TASH could then be used at hospital arrival. Prehospital TASH calculation may be possible but should be further investigated.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic test, level III.

Vascular injury at laparoscopy: a guide to management

Vascular laparoscopic injuries are rare (0.2/1000), however, they are associated with 6-13% morbidity and mortality. Commonest sites for catastrophic haemorrhage are the right iliac vessels, inferior vena cava and less commonly the abdominal aorta. The injuries commonly occur at entry using a Veress needle or insertion of trocars. These risks are inherent to all laparoscopic surgery. A systematic approach for managing these includes prompt recognition, communication within the operative team, immediate resuscitation and specific operative strategies for the control of vascular haemorrhage based on the location and severity of the injury. Major vascular injuries may require midline laparotomy and vascular surgeons. 1:1:1 resuscitation and adjunct haemostatic agents may help. Major vascular injury is a rare but a potentially fatal complication. We propose a skills and drills approach to improve outcomes. We also propose a practical algorithms for the management of haemorrhage in the acute situation.

[Prehospital assessment of injury type and severity in severely injured patients by emergency physicians : An analysis of the TraumaRegister DGU®]

BACKGROUND

Prehospital assessment of injury type and severity by emergency medical services physicians impacts treatment including appropriate destination hospital selection, especially in (potentially) life-threatening cases. Injuries which are underestimated or overlooked by the emergency physician can delay adequate therapy and thus significantly influence the overall outcome. The current study used data from the TraumaRegister DGU® to evaluate the reliability of prehospital injury assessments made by emergency physicians.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Data of 30,777 patients from the TraumaRegister DGU® between 1993 and 2009 were retrospectively evaluated. Using the abbreviated injury scale (AIS), subjective prehospital assessments of injury severity by emergency physicians were correlated with objectively identified injuries diagnosed after admission to hospital. For this evaluation, prehospital injury assessments rated moderate or severe by the emergency physician as well as injuries diagnosed in hospital with an AIS score ≥3 points were deemed relevant.

RESULTS

The 30,777 patients with an injury severity score (ISS) ≥ 9 suffered a total of 202,496 injuries and of these 26 % (51,839 out of 202,496) were considered relevant with an AIS ≥3 points. The most frequent relevant injuries were to the head (47 %) and chest (46 %). Of the 51,839 relevant injuries, the prehospital assessment by the emergency physician was accurate for 71 % and in 29 % of the cases relevant injuries were underestimated. Relevant injuries were unrecognized or underestimated in prehospital assessments for almost 1 out of every 7 cases of head trauma, almost 1 out of every 3 thoracic trauma and almost 1 out of every 2 abdominal and pelvic trauma.

CONCLUSION

The assessment of injury severity by emergency medical services physicians based on physical examination at the scene of the trauma is not very reliable. Thus, mechanisms of injury and overall presentation as well as identifiable injuries and vital parameters should be recognized by the emergency physician when considering treatment strategies and choice of appropriate destination hospital. The patient should be re-evaluated in a priority-oriented manner at the latest on arrival in the trauma room to avoid the consequences of unrecognized or underestimated injuries.

Preoperative fluid restriction for trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock decreases ventilator days

Aim

In recent years, with the concept of damage control resuscitation, hemostasis and preoperative fluid restriction have been carried out, but there is controversy regarding the effectiveness of fluid restriction.

Methods

From April 2007 to March 2013, 101 trauma patients presented with hemorrhagic shock (systolic blood pressure ≤90 mmHg) at the prehospital or emergency department and were admitted to Hyogo Emergency Medical Center (Hyogo, Japan). They underwent emergency hemostasis by surgery and transcatheter arterial embolization. We compared two groups in a historical cohort study, the aggressive fluid resuscitation (AR) group, which included 59 cases treated in the period April 2007-March 2010, and the fluid restriction (FR) group, which included 42 cases treated in the period April 2010-March 2013.

Results

There was no difference between both groups in patient background (heart rate, 110 b.p.m.; systolic blood pressure, 70 mmHg). The Injury Severity Score was 34 (AR) versus 38 (FR) (not significant). Preoperative infusion volume of crystalloid significantly decreased, from 2310 mL (AR) to 1025 mL (FR) (P ≤ 0.01). There was no difference in mortality (36% [AR] versus 41% [FR]). Ventilator days significantly decreased, from 8.5 days (AR) to 5.5 days (FR) (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Preoperative fluid restriction for trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock did not improve mortality, but it decreased ventilator days by reducing the perioperative plus water balance and it might contribute to perioperative intensive care.

C1 Inhibitor Limits Organ Injury and Prolongs Survival in Swine Subjected to Battlefield Simulated Injury

Complement system activation is recognized as a deleterious component of the mammalian physiological response to traumatic injury with severe hemorrhage (TH). Female Yorkshire swine were subjected to a simulated austere prehospital battlefield scenario. Each animal underwent controlled hemorrhage of 22 mL/kg at 100 mL/min rate for approximately 10 min followed by soft tissue injury, femur fracture, and spleen injury. Subsequent blood loss was uncontrolled. Twenty-eight minutes postinjury the animals were randomized into treatment or no treatment with recombinant human C1 esterase inhibitor (C1INH) (500 IU/kg, n = 11) and into receiving or not permissive hypotensive resuscitation (n = 14) with infusion of 45 mL/kg lactated Ringer's solution (2× blood lost). Observation and animal maintenance continued for 6 h at which time the animals had either expired or were euthanized. Heart, lung, and small intestine tissue samples were collected. Pharmacokinetic, hemodynamic, and metabolic parameters as well as survival time, plasma complement activity and tissue deposition, cytokine levels, and tissue injury were determined. We found that administration of C1INH protected tissues from damage, reduced the levels of inflammatory cytokines, and improved blood chemistry. Immunohistochemical analyses revealed that C1INH administration following TH markedly reduced complement activation and deposition in tissues. Importantly, C1INH administration prolonged survival of animals particularly in those which received resuscitation fluid infusion. Our data urge early administration of C1INH to limit organ damage and prolong survival of those injured in the battlefield.

Montgomery L, J. Pearce F, Armonda R. Measurement of Cerebral Blood Flow Autoregulation with Rheoencephalography: A Comparative Pig Study

Neuromonitoring is performed to prevent further (secondary) brain damage by detecting low brain blood flow following a head injury, stroke or neurosurgery. This comparative neuromonitoring study is part of an ongoing investigation of brain bioimpedance (rheoencephalography-REG) as a measuring modality for use in both civilian and military medical settings, such as patient transport, emergency care and neurosurgery intensive care. In a previous animal study, we validated that REG detects cerebral blood flow autoregulation (CBF AR), the body's physiological mechanism that protects the brain from adverse effects of low brain blood flow (hypoxia/ischemia). In the current descriptive pig study, the primary goal was to compare measurements of CBF AR made with REG to measurements made with other neuromonitoring modalities: laser Doppler flow (LDF); intracranial pressure (ICP); absolute CBF; carotid flow (CF); and systemic arterial pressure (SAP). Challenges administered to anesthetized pigs were severe induced hemorrhage (bleeding) and resuscitation; CO2 inhalation; and positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP). Data were stored on a computer and processed offline. After hemorrhage, the loss of CBF AR was detected by REG, ICP, and CF, all of which passively followed systemic arterial SAP after bleeding. Loss of CBF AR was the earliest indicator of low brain blood flow: loss of CBF AR occurred before a decrease in cardiac output, which is the cardiovascular response to hemorrhage. A secondary goal of this study was to validate the usefulness of new automated data processing software developed to detect the status of CBF AR. Both the new automated software and the traditional (observational) evaluation indicated the status of CBF AR. REG indicates the earliest breakdown of CBF AR; cessation of EEG for 2 seconds and respiration would be used as additional indicators of loss of CBF AR. The clinical significance of this animal study is that REG shows potential for use as a noninvasive, continuous and non-operator dependent neuromonitor of CBF AR in both civilian and military medical settings. Human validation studies of neuromonitoring with REG are currently in progress.

Massive transfusion practice in non-trauma related hemorrhagic shock

PURPOSE

Evidence suggests that trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock requiring massive transfusion have improved outcomes if resuscitated with a prescribed massive transfusion protocol (MTP). However, there is limited data regarding the efficacy of MTP in non-trauma patients.

METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study of all patients who received a massive transfusion protocol for non-traumatic hemorrhagic shock over a four-year period. The primary outcome was in-patient hospital survival. We dichotomized recipients of MTP into survivors versus non-survivors, comparing outcomes of interest within the categories by nonparametric testing. Summary statistics expressed as median (interquartile range).

RESULTS

Fifty-nine patients were reviewed, with the median age of 59.0 (35.0-71.0) years old. Thirty-three (56%) patients survived. Survivors were younger, 57.0 (30.0-67.0) versus 64.0 (53.5-71.5) years old (p=0.047), and had lower Sequential Organ Failure Assessment scores (6.0 (3.0-8.0) versus11.5 (9.5-13.0); p=0.008). Patients on the medical service receiving MTP had an increased risk of mortality (odds ratio 4.26; p=0.02).

CONCLUSION

Over half of the patients receiving massive transfusion protocols for their non-trauma related hemorrhagic shock survived. Survivors were younger, were less acutely ill, and on non-medical services. Further research is needed to investigate best practice for transfusion in non-trauma related hemorrhagic shock.

[A new concept of organization and scope of neurosurgical care in the US army during armed conflicts in the early 2000s]

Military operations in various parts of the world in the early 2000s are becoming more regionalized; new warfare tactics emerge, which makes it necessary to review and modify the neurosurgical care system. The article reviews the results of original studies on this issue and summarizes the experience of the US Army medical service in Afghanistan and Iraq. The article discusses the structure of sanitary losses, organization and scope of medical and evacuation neurosurgical measures, types and techniques of surgical interventions, and the rate of complications. We describe five levels of neurosurgical care echelons and an implemented "injury control - neurosurgery" concept; particular attention is paid to the peculiarities of research and specialist training. We demonstrate that implementation of the new concept for organization and scope of neurosurgical care has improved treatment outcomes and reduced the mortality rate in the mentioned military conflicts of recent years compared to those in the Vietnam War. We may conclude that the described experience of the US Army can be used to improve the efficacy of neurosurgical care to the wounded and victims of armed conflicts.

Improvement of Treatment Outcomes after Implementation of a Massive Transfusion Protocol: A Level I Trauma Center Experience

We assessed the effectiveness of the implementation of an institutional massive transfusion protocol (MTP) for resuscitation with a 1:1:1 transfusion ratio of packed red blood cell (PRBC), fresh frozen plasma, and platelet units. In a Level I trauma center database, all trauma admissions (2004–2012) that received massive transfusions (≥10 units PRBCs in the first 24 hours) were reviewed retrospectively. Demographic data, transfusion ratios, and outcomes were compared before (PRE) and after (POST) MTP implementation in May 2008. Age, sex, and mechanism of injury were similar between 239 PRE and 208 POST trauma patients requiring massive transfusion. Transfusion ratios of fresh frozen plasma:PRBC and platelet:PRBC increased after MTP implementation. Among survivors, MTP implementation shortened hospital length of stay from 31 to 26 days (P = 0.04) and intensive care unit length of stay from 31 to 26 days (P = 0.02). Linear regression identified treatment after (versus before) implementation of MTP as an independent predictor of decreased ventilator days after adjusting for age, Glasgow Coma Scale, and chest Abbreviated Injury Score (P < 0.0001). Modest improvement in ratios likely does not account for all significant improvements in outcomes. Implementing a standardized protocol likely impacts automation, efficiency, and/or timeliness of product delivery.

Abbreviated closure for remote damage control laparotomy in extreme environments: A randomized trial of sutures versus wound clamps comparing terrestrial and weightless conditions

INTRODUCTION

Far-Forward Damage Control Laparotomies (DCLs) might provide direct-compression of visceral hemorrhage, however, suturing is a limiting factor, especially for non-physicians. We thus compared abbreviated skin closures comparing skin-suture (SS) versus wound-clamp (WC), on-board a research aircraft in weightlessness (0g) and normal gravity (1g).

METHODS

Surgeons conducted DCLs on a surgical-simulator; onboard the hangered-aircraft (1g), or during parabolic flight (0g), randomized to either WC or SS.

RESULTS

Ten surgeons participated. Two (40%) surgeons randomized to suture in 0g were incapacitated with motion-sickness, and none were able to close in either 1 or 0g. With WC, two completely closed in 1g as did three in 0g, despite having longer incisions (p = 0.016). Overall skin-closure with WC was significantly greater in both 1g (p = 0.016) and 0g (p = 0.008).

CONCLUSIONS

WC was more effective in 1g and particularly 0g. Future studies should address the utility of abbreviated WC abdominal closure to facilitate potential Far-Forward DCL.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ID ISRCTN/77929274.

Permissive hypotension/hypotensive resuscitation and restricted/controlled resuscitation in patients with severe trauma

Achieving a balance between organ perfusion and hemostasis is critical for optimal fluid resuscitation in patients with severe trauma. The concept of “permissive hypotension” refers to managing trauma patients by restricting the amount of resuscitation fluid and maintaining blood pressure in the lower than normal range if there is continuing bleeding during the acute period of injury. This treatment approach may avoid the adverse effects of early, high-dose fluid resuscitation, such as dilutional coagulopathy and acceleration of hemorrhage, but does carry the potential risk of tissue hypoperfusion. Current clinical guidelines recommend the use of permissive hypotension and controlled resuscitation. However, it is not mentioned which subjects would receive most benefit from this approach, when considering factors such as age, injury mechanism, setting, or the presence or absence of hypotension. Recently, two randomized clinical trials examined the efficacy of titrating blood pressure in younger patients with shock secondary to either penetrating or blunt injury; in both trials, overall mortality was not improved. Another two major clinical trials suggest that controlled resuscitation may be safe in patients with blunt injury in the pre-hospital setting and possibly lead to improved outcomes, especially in patients with pre-hospital hypotension. Some animal studies suggest that hypotensive resuscitation may improve outcomes in subjects with penetrating injury where bleeding occurs from only one site. On the other hand, hypotensive resuscitation in blunt trauma may worsen outcomes due to tissue hypoperfusion. The influence of these approaches on coagulation has not been sufficiently examined, even in animal studies. The effectiveness of permissive hypotension/hypotensive resuscitation and restricted/controlled resuscitation is still inconclusive, even when examining systematic reviews and meta-analyses. Further investigation is needed to elucidate the effectiveness of these approaches, so as to develop improved treatment strategies which take into account coagulopathy in the pathophysiology of trauma.

Damage control resuscitation: a practical approach for severely hemorrhagic patients and its effects on trauma surgery

Coagulopathy observed in trauma patients was thought to be a resuscitation-associated phenomenon. The replacement of lost and consumed coagulation factors was the mainstay in the resuscitation of hemorrhagic shock for many decades. Twenty years ago, damage control surgery (DCS) was implemented to challenge the coagulopathy of trauma. It consists of three steps: abbreviated surgery to control the hemorrhage and contamination, resuscitation in the intensive care unit (ICU), and planned re-operation with definitive surgery. The resuscitation strategy of DCS focused on the rapid reversal of acidosis and prevention of hypothermia through the first two steps. However, direct treatment of coagulopathy was not emphasized in DCS.

Recently, better understanding of the pathophysiology of coagulopathy in trauma patients has led to the logical opinion that we should directly address this coagulopathy during major trauma resuscitation. Damage control resuscitation (DCR), the strategic approach to the trauma patient who presents in extremis, consists of balanced resuscitation, hemostatic resuscitation, and prevention of acidosis, hypothermia, and hypocalcemia. In balanced resuscitation, fluid administration is restricted and hypotension is allowed until definitive hemostatic measures begin. The administration of blood products consisting of fresh frozen plasma, packed red blood cells, and platelets, the ratio of which resembles whole blood, is recommended early in the resuscitation.

DCR strategy is now the most beneficial measure available to address trauma-induced coagulopathy, and it can change the treatment strategy of trauma patients. DCS is now incorporated as a component of DCR. DCR as a structured intervention begins immediately after rapid initial assessment in the emergency room and progresses through the operating theater into the ICU in combination with DCS. By starting from ground zero with the performance of DCS, DCR allows the trauma surgeon to correct the coagulopathy of trauma. The effect of the reversal of coagulopathy in massively hemorrhagic patients may change the operative strategy with DCS.

Coagulation complications following trauma

Traumatic injury is one of the leading causes of death, with uncontrolled hemorrhage from coagulation dysfunction as one of the main potentially preventable causes of the mortality. Hypothermia, acidosis, and resuscitative hemodilution have been considered as the significant contributors to coagulation manifestations following trauma, known as the lethal triad. Over the past decade, clinical observations showed that coagulopathy may be present as early as hospital admission in some severely injured trauma patients. The hemostatic dysfunction is associated with higher blood transfusion requirements, longer hospital stay, and higher mortality. The recognition of this early coagulopathy has initiated tremendous interest and effort in the trauma community to expand our understanding of the underlying pathophysiology and improve clinical treatments. This review discusses the current knowledge of coagulation complications following trauma.

Prehospital use of blood and plasma in pediatric trauma patients

OBJECTIVE

Our rural trauma center uses packed red blood cells (PRBCs) and plasma onboard our helicopter to offset the delay of transport. We summarize our initial experience with prehospital blood use in pediatric trauma patients.

METHODS

Our air ambulance service began carrying PRBCs in 1987 and plasma in 2009. We performed a 9-year retrospective review including patients (< 18 years) who received blood during helicopter transports. Only patients transported to our level 1 trauma center were included to ensure complete follow-up.

RESULTS

Sixteen patients (6 females) were identified with a mean age of 13 years. The mean transport time was 30 minutes with 75% transferred in from a referring center. Injuries were blunt in 9 patients and penetrating in 2 patients. The mean Injury Severity Score was 30. Fifteen patients received an average of 1.5 units of PRBCs during flight. Indications for PRBCs were severe anemia (6), known blood loss (5), and nonresponder to intravenous fluids (4). Average hemoglobin improved from 9.4 to 11.4 mg/dL at our center. Base deficit improved from -7 to -5.7 at arrival. Five patients received a mean of 1.4 units of plasma. The arrival international normalized ratio was 1.4. The average length of stay was 9.3 days. Four patients died. Trauma Related Injury Severity Score showed 3 patients were unexpected survivors (0.24, 0.24, and 0.38).

CONCLUSION

Prehospital use of blood in injured children is rare. However, when indicated, this initial review of our protocol showed increased hemoglobin, decreased acidosis, and unexpected survivors with our program. Because of the rarity of prehospital blood use in children, administration triggers require continued review and refinement.