The coagulopathy of trauma: a review of mechanisms. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC. 2008;65:748-754. [PMID: 18849786 DOI: 10.1097/ta.0b013e3181877a9c]

ROTEM's utility in guiding resuscitation of traumatic lower extremity fracture patients

INTRODUCTION

Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) is a method for real-time detection of clotting derangements allowing for targeted blood product resuscitation. We sought to determine if coagulopathy profiles differed based on fracture location (comparing pelvic versus tibia and femur fractures), if ROTEM profiles correlated between both total hospital and intensive care unit length of stay (LOS), and if ROTEM profiles correlated with patients undergoing an immediate definitive fixation versus an early damage control approach to care.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective cohort study was performed using data from a level 1 trauma registry database. ICD codes were used to isolate operative lower extremity fractures that had a ROTEM on admission. Two cohorts were created: (1) stratification by fracture location including pelvis, femur, and tibia (n = 498) and (2) stratification by fixation method including external fixation versus early definitive fixation (n = 154). The fracture location cohort assessed length of stay parameters while the fixation cohort assessed fixation approaches with ROTEM profiles.

RESULTS

The majority of fracture location patients with ROTEM APTEM and ROTEM EXTEM profiles were physiologically coagulable with all three fracture locations. Most patients with ROTEM INTEM profiles showed hypocoagulable derangements with femur (75.2%), tibia (68.1%), and pelvic fractures (68.8%). Fractures classified as ROTEM APTEM hypocoagulable indicated a longer hospital LOS (r = 0.282) and ICU LOS (r = 0.510). No correlation was found between coagulopathy profiles and fixation approaches.

CONCLUSIONS

ROTEM studies on fracture types showed little consensus on ROTEM profiles correlating to a specific fracture location. ROTEM profiles collected showed limited predictive ability of a patient's hospital and ICU LOS. Early definitive fixation versus external fixation did not correlate between specific ROTEM profiles. Overall, there did not appear to be utility in routine use of ROTEM in fracture patients and this should be limited to those with severe multisystem injuries.

Stop the bleed " - Prehospital bleeding control in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries - A systematic review and clinical practice guideline - A systematic review and clinical practice guideline

PURPOSE

Our aim was to develop new evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations for bleeding control in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries in the prehospital setting. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.

METHODS

MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched until June 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, and comparative registry studies were included if they compared interventions for bleeding control in the prehospital setting using manual pressure, haemostatic agents, tourniquets, pelvic stabilisation, or traction splints in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries. We considered patient-relevant clinical outcomes such as mortality and bleeding control. Transfusion requirements and haemodynamic stability were surrogate outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.

RESULTS

Fifteen studies were identified. Interventions covered were pelvic binders (n = 4 studies), pressure dressings (n = 1), tourniquets (n = 6), traction splints (n = 1), haemostatic agents (n = 3), and nasal balloon catheters (n = 1). Fourteen new recommendations were developed. All achieved strong consensus.

CONCLUSION

Bleeding control is the basic objective of treatment. This can be easily justified based on empirical evidence. There is, however, a lack of reliable and high-quality studies that assess and compare methods for bleeding control in patients with multiple and/or severe injuries. The guideline provides reasonable and practical recommendations (although mostly with a low grade of recommendation) and also reveals several open research questions that can hopefully be answered when the guideline is revised again.

Ten Machine Learning Models for Predicting Preoperative and Postoperative Coagulopathy in Patients With Trauma: Multicenter Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Recent research has revealed the potential value of machine learning (ML) models in improving prognostic prediction for patients with trauma. ML can enhance predictions and identify which factors contribute the most to posttraumatic mortality. However, no studies have explored the risk factors, complications, and risk prediction of preoperative and postoperative traumatic coagulopathy (PPTIC) in patients with trauma.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to help clinicians implement timely and appropriate interventions to reduce the incidence of PPTIC and related complications, thereby lowering in-hospital mortality and disability rates for patients with trauma.

METHODS

We analyzed data from 13,235 patients with trauma from 4 medical centers, including medical histories, laboratory results, and hospitalization complications. We developed 10 ML models in Python (Python Software Foundation) to predict PPTIC based on preoperative indicators. Data from 10,023 Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care patients were divided into training (70%) and test (30%) sets, with 3212 patients from 3 other centers used for external validation. Model performance was assessed with 5-fold cross-validation, bootstrapping, Brier score, and Shapley additive explanation values.

RESULTS

Univariate logistic regression identified PPTIC risk factors as (1) prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and international normalized ratio; (2) decreased levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, calcium, and sodium; (3) lower admission diastolic blood pressure; (4) elevated alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels; (5) admission heart rate; and (6) emergency surgery and perioperative transfusion. Multivariate logistic regression revealed that patients with PPTIC faced significantly higher risks of sepsis (1.75-fold), heart failure (1.5-fold), delirium (3.08-fold), abnormal coagulation (3.57-fold), tracheostomy (2.76-fold), mortality (2.19-fold), and urinary tract infection (1.95-fold), along with longer hospital and intensive care unit stays. Random forest was the most effective ML model for predicting PPTIC, achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic of 0.91, an area under the precision-recall curve of 0.89, accuracy of 0.84, sensitivity of 0.80, specificity of 0.88, precision of 0.88, F1-score of 0.84, and Brier score of 0.13 in external validation.

CONCLUSIONS

Key PPTIC risk factors include (1) prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, and international normalized ratio; (2) low levels of hemoglobin, hematocrit, red blood cells, calcium, and sodium; (3) low diastolic blood pressure; (4) elevated alanine aminotransferase and aspartate aminotransferase levels; (5) admission heart rate; and (6) the need for emergency surgery and transfusion. PPTIC is associated with severe complications and extended hospital stays. Among the ML models, the random forest model was the most effective predictor.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry ChiCTR2300078097; https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.html?proj=211051.

Early Thrombocytopenia at Hospital Admission Predicts Mortality in Patients with Non-Isolated Severe Traumatic Brain Injury

Patients with severe traumatic brain injury (STBI) often experience an abnormal hemostasis that contributes to mortality and unfavorable neurological outcomes.

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to analyze epidemiologic, clinical, and laboratory factors associated with mortality in patients with STBI during the first 48 h after in-hospital admission.

METHODS

We performed an observational retrospective study of STBI patients with associated extracranial trauma [defined as Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16 with an Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) head and neck ≥ 3 and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) ≤ 8] admitted to a Level II trauma center over seven years (2015-2021). Patients were divided into two groups: survivors and dead. We assessed differences regarding demographics, trauma severity, hemodynamics, disability, need for surgery, length of stay, transfusions, need for massive transfusion protocol, and hemostatic laboratory parameters at different time points.

RESULTS

A total of 134 STBI patients were included. Patients who died were older, mostly men, and showed higher trauma severity and disability. Hemoglobin, platelets, and clotting parameters deteriorated after admission to the emergency department (ED) with significant differences between groups within the first 24 h after admission. Platelet count < 150 × 103/μL at ED arrival, GCS, and age were independent risk factors for mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

Older age, GCS, and platelet count at ED arrival were independent risk factors for mortality in STBI patients with associated extracranial trauma. Early thrombocytopenia < 150 × 103/μL at ED arrival may be used as a simple prognostic tool to early predict mortality between non-isolated STBI.

Damage Control Orthopaedics Induced Less Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy than Early Total Care in a Porcine Polytrauma Model

INTRODUCTION

Coagulopathic disorders (CDs) complicate treatment in polytraumatised patients. Against this background, operative strategies for fracture management are controversial in this cohort. This study therefore investigated the effects of two established operative concepts, early total care (ETC) and damage control orthopaedics (DCO), on CD in a large-animal polytrauma (PT) model.

METHODS

Twenty-two animals (Sus scrofa domesticus) sustained PT involving blunt-chest trauma, liver laceration, bilateral femur fracture, and pressure-controlled haemorrhagic shock. After resuscitation, animals were allocated to ETC (n = 8), DCO (n = 8), or served as a non-traumatised control group (CG, n = 6). Animals were ventilated and monitored under ICU standards for 72 h. Blood samples were collected at baseline and post-trauma after 1.5, 2.5, 24, 48, and 72 h. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1) and thrombin-antithrombin (TAT) complex concentrations were determined by ELISA.

RESULTS

Compared to the CG, ETC and DCO subjects had significantly increased plasma concentrations of PAI-1 after 2.5 h (CG vs. ETC: p = 0.0050, CG vs. DCO: p = 0.0016). Furthermore, the ETC group showed significantly increased plasma PAI-1 concentrations after 24 h compared to the CG and DCO groups (CG vs. ETC: p = 0.0002, DCO vs. ETC: p = 0.0004). During the later clinical course, concentrations of TAT were significantly increased in the ETC group compared to the CG and DCO group after 72 h (CG vs. ETC: p = 0.0290, DCO vs. ETC: p = 0.0322).

CONCLUSION

PT is strongly associated with CD in the early post-traumatic course. In comparison to DCO, ETC appeared to be negatively associated with CD. Future studies must investigate this impact, especially in those patients admitted with trauma-induced coagulopathy, to improve outcomes.

Antithrombin III Levels and Outcomes Among Patients With Trauma

Importance

Patients with trauma exhibit a complex balance of coagulopathy manifested by both bleeding and thrombosis. Antithrombin III is a plasma protein that functions as an important regulator of coagulation. Previous studies have found a high incidence of antithrombin III deficiency among patients with trauma.

Objective

To assess whether changes in antithrombin III activity are associated with thrombohemorrhagic complications among patients with trauma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study was conducted from December 2, 2015, to March 24, 2017, at a level I trauma center. A total of 292 patients with trauma were followed up from their arrival through 6 days from admission. Data, including quantification of antithrombin III activity, were collected for these patients. Thromboprophylaxis strategy; hemorrhage, deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and pulmonary embolism screenings; and follow-up evaluations were conducted per institutional protocols. Data analyses were performed from September 28, 2023, to June 4, 2024.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary study outcome measurements were associations between antithrombin III levels and outcomes among patients with trauma, including ventilator-free days, hospital-free days, intensive care unit (ICU)-free days, hemorrhage, venous thromboembolic events, and mortality.

Results

The 292 patients had a mean (SD) age of 54.4 (19.0) years and included 211 men (72.2%). Patients with an antithrombin III deficiency had fewer mean (SD) ventilator-free days (27.8 [5.1] vs 29.6 [1.4]; P = .0003), hospital-free days (20.3 [8.2] vs 24.0 [5.7]; P = 1.37 × 10-6), and ICU-free days (25.7 [4.9] vs 27.7 [2.3]; P = 9.38 × 10-6) compared with patients without a deficiency. Antithrombin III deficiency was also associated with greater rates of progressive intracranial hemorrhage (21.1% [28 of 133] vs 6.3% [10 of 159]; P = .0003) and thrombocytopenia (24.8% [33 of 133] vs 5.0% [8 of 159]; P = 1.94 × 10-6). Although antithrombin III deficiency was not significantly associated with DVT, patients who developed a DVT had a more precipitous decrease in antithrombin III levels that were significantly lower than patients who did not develop a DVT.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of patients with trauma, antithrombin III deficiency was associated with greater injury severity, increased hemorrhage, and increased mortality, as well as fewer ventilator-free, hospital-free, and ICU-free days. Although this was an associative study, these data suggest that antithrombin III levels may be useful in the risk assessment of patients with trauma.

Dried Plasma for Major Trauma: Past, Present, and Future

Uncontrollable bleeding is recognized as the leading cause of preventable death among trauma patients. Early transfusion of blood products, especially plasma replacing crystalloid and colloid solutions, has been shown to increase survival of severely injured patients. However, the requirements for cold storage and thawing processes prior to transfusion present significant logistical challenges in prehospital and remote areas, resulting in a considerable delay in receiving thawed or liquid plasma, even in hospitals. In contrast, freeze- or spray-dried plasma, which can be massively produced, stockpiled, and stored at room temperature, is easily carried and can be reconstituted for transfusion in minutes, provides a promising alternative. Drawn from history, this paper provides a review of different forms of dried plasma with a focus on in vitro characterization of hemostatic properties, to assess the effects of the drying process, storage conditions in dry form and after reconstitution, their distinct safety and/or efficacy profiles currently in different phases of development, and to discuss the current expectations of these products in the context of recent preclinical and clinical trials. Future research directions are presented as well.

Prospective evaluation of platelet function and fibrinolysis in 20 dogs with trauma

OBJECTIVES

To determine platelet function and assess fibrinolysis in dogs following trauma using multiple electrical impedance aggregometry and a modified thromboelastographic (TEG) technique. To determine if the severity of trauma, as assessed by the Animal Trauma Triage (ATT) score and clinicopathological markers of shock, is associated with a greater degree of platelet dysfunction and fibrinolysis.

SETTING

University teaching hospital.

ANIMALS

Twenty client-owned dogs with trauma (occurring <24 h prior to admission and blood sampling) and ATT score of >4 were prospectively recruited. A control group of 10 healthy dogs was included.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

Platelet function was measured using multiple electrode platelet aggregometry (MEPA) utilizing arachidonic acid, ADP, and collagen agonists. Fibrinolysis was assessed in citrated whole blood with the addition of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA; 50 U/mL) using kaolin-activated TEG. Conventional statistical analysis was performed to compare coagulation parameters between the groups and assess linear correlations. Median (interquartile range) ATT score was 5 (5-7), and 65% (n = 13) of dogs suffered polytrauma. Mean (± SD) time from trauma to blood sampling was 9 hours (± 6). Median (interquartile range) shock index and plasma lactate concentration were 1.1 (0.7-2.0, n = 16) and 2.9 mmol/L (0.9-16.0, n = 18), respectively. Four dogs did not survive to discharge (20%). There were no differences between the trauma and control group coagulation variables. A moderate negative correlation between ATT score and area under the curve for ADP was found (P = 0.043, r2  = -0.496).

CONCLUSIONS

Preliminary evaluation of platelet function measured by MEPA, and fibrinolysis measured by tPA-modified TEG, is not significantly different in this population of dogs with traumatic injury compared to healthy dogs.

Association between lung contusion volume and acute changes in fibrinogen levels: A single-center observational study

Aim

Organ tissue damage, including the lungs, may lead to acute coagulopathy. This study aimed to evaluate the association between lung contusion volume and serum fibrinogen level during the acute phase of trauma.

Methods

We conducted an observational study using electronic medical records at a tertiary-care center between January 2015 and December 2018. We included patients with lung contusions on hospital arrival. We used three-dimensional computed tomography to calculate lung contusion volumes. The primary outcome was the lowest fibrinogen level measured within 24 h of hospital arrival. We evaluated the association between lung contusion volume and outcome with multivariable linear regression analysis. Also, we calculated the sensitivity and specificity of lung contusion volume in patients with a serum fibrinogen level of ≤150 mg/dL.

Results

We identified 124 eligible patients. Their median age was 43.5 years, and 101 were male (81.5%). The median lung contusion volume was 10.9%. The median lowest fibrinogen level within 24 h from arrival was 188.0 mg/dL. After adjustment, lung contusion volume had a statistically significant association with the lowest fibrinogen level within 24 h from arrival (coefficient -1.6, 95% confidence interval -3.16 to -0.07). When a lung contusion volume of 20% was used as the cutoff, the sensitivity and specificity to identify fibrinogen depletion were 0.27 and 0.95, respectively.

Conclusion

Lung contusion volume was associated with the lowest fibrinogen level measured within 24 h from hospital arrival. Measuring lung contusion volume may help to identify patients with a progression of fibrinogen depletion.

Tranexamic acid (class I drug) reduced and capped gold nanoparticles as a potential hemostatic agent with enhanced performance

External hemostatic agents play a crucial role in stabilizing an impaired process during pathological conditions. The idea is to stabilize thein vivosystem as soon as possible. This study uses a class I hemostatic drug tranexamic acid as a reducing and capping agent for synthesizing the gold nanoparticles (Tr-AuNPs). Being the synthetic analogue of lysine and a biologically inspired alkylamine molecule, the chemistry can be fine-tuned for stable material that can simultaneously target the intrinsic and extrinsic hemostatic pathway, making it promising for hemostatic applications. The Tr-AuNPs of hydrodynamic diameter ∼46 nm were synthesized and evaluated physio-chemically using various analytical techniques wherein they showed hemocompatibility and increased thrombus weight compared to the native drug. The decrease in prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio supported by the dynamic thromboelastography (TEG) study indicates the prepared nano-conjugate's potential in reducing time for attaining hemostasis as compared to the native tranexamic acid drug. At a 9μg ml-1concentration, Tr-AuNPs had a procoagulant effect, shown by decreased reaction time (R) and coagulation time (K) with improvedαangle and MA. There was a significant increase in the rate of coagulationin vivoby Tr-AuNPs, i.e. (52 s) compared to the native tranexamic acid (360 s). Radiolabelling studies ascertained thein vivobiocompatibility (non-invasive distribution, residence, clearance, and stability) of the Tr-AuNPs. The short-term toxicity studies were conducted to establish a proof of concept for the biomedical application of the material. The results highlighted the use of biologically alkyl amine molecules as capping and reducing agents for the synthesis of nanoparticles, which have shown a synergistic effect on the coagulation cascade while holding the potential for also acting as potential theranostic agents.

The prognostic value of an age-adjusted BIG score in adult patients with traumatic brain injury

Background

The base deficit, international normalized ratio, and Glasgow Coma Scale (BIG) score was previously developed to predict the outcomes of pediatric trauma patients. We designed this study to explore and improve the prognostic value of the BIG score in adult patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

Adult patients diagnosed with TBI in a public critical care database were included in this observational study. The BIG score was calculated based on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), the international normalized ratio (INR), and the base deficit. Logistic regression analysis was performed to confirm the association between the BIG score and the outcome of included patients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were drawn to evaluate the prognostic value of the BIG score and novel constructed models.

Results

In total, 1,034 TBI patients were included in this study with a mortality of 22.8%. Non-survivors had higher BIG scores than survivors (p < 0.001). The results of multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that age (p < 0.001), pulse oxygen saturation (SpO2) (p = 0.032), glucose (p = 0.015), hemoglobin (p = 0.047), BIG score (p < 0.001), subarachnoid hemorrhage (p = 0.013), and intracerebral hematoma (p = 0.001) were associated with in-hospital mortality of included patients. The AUC (area under the ROC curves) of the BIG score was 0.669, which was not as high as in previous pediatric trauma cohorts. However, combining the BIG score with age increased the AUC to 0.764. The prognostic model composed of significant factors including BIG had the highest AUC of 0.786.

Conclusion

The age-adjusted BIG score is superior to the original BIG score in predicting mortality of adult TBI patients. The prognostic model incorporating the BIG score is beneficial for clinicians, aiding them in making early triage and treatment decisions in adult TBI patients.

A Multichannel Portable Platform With Embedded Thermal Management for Miniaturized Dielectric Blood Coagulometry

This article presents a standalone, multichannel, miniaturized impedance analyzer (MIA) system for dielectric blood coagulometry measurements with a microfluidic sensor termed ClotChip. The system incorporates a front-end interface board for 4-channel impedance measurements at an excitation frequency of 1 MHz, an integrated resistive heater formed by a pair of printed-circuit board (PCB) traces to keep the blood sample near a physiologic temperature of 37 °C, a software-defined instrument module for signal generation and data acquisition, and a Raspberry Pi-based embedded computer with 7-inch touchscreen display for signal processing and user interface. When measuring fixed test impedances across all four channels, the MIA system exhibits an excellent agreement with a benchtop impedance analyzer, with rms errors of ≤0.30% over a capacitance range of 47-330 pF and ≤0.35% over a conductance range of 2.13-10 mS. Using in vitro-modified human whole blood samples, the two ClotChip output parameters, namely, the time to reach a permittivity peak (Tpeak) and maximum change in permittivity after the peak (Δϵr,max) are assessed by the MIA system and benchmarked against the corresponding parameters of a rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assay. Tpeak exhibits a very strong positive correlation (r = 0.98, p < 10-6, n = 20) with the ROTEM clotting time (CT) parameter, while Δϵr,max exhibits a very strong positive correlation (r = 0.92, p < 10-6, n = 20) with the ROTEM maximum clot firmness (MCF) parameter. This work shows the potential of the MIA system as a standalone, multichannel, portable platform for comprehensive assessment of hemostasis at the point-of-care/point-of-injury (POC/POI).

Balanced resuscitation: application to the paediatric trauma population

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Trauma is the leading cause of death in children over 5 years old. Early mortality is associated with trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC), with balanced resuscitation potentially mitigating the effects of TIC. We review TIC, balanced resuscitation and the best evidence for crystalloid fluid versus early blood products, massive transfusion protocol (MTP) and the optimal ratio for blood products.

RECENT FINDINGS

Crystalloid fluids have been associated with adverse events in paediatric trauma patients. However, the best way to implement early blood products remains unclear; MTP has only shown improved time to blood products without clear clinical improvement. The indications to start blood products are also currently under investigation with several scoring systems and clinical indications being studied. Current studies on the blood product ratio suggest a 1 : 1 ratio for plasma:pRBC is likely ideal, but prospective studies are needed to further support its use.

SUMMARY

Balanced resuscitation strategies of minimal crystalloid use and early administration of blood products are associated with improved morbidity in paediatric trauma patients but unclear mortality benefit. Current evidence suggests that the utilization of MTPs with 1 : 1 plasma:pRBC ratio may improve morbidity, but more research is needed.

Elamipretide mitigates ischemia-reperfusion injury in a swine model of hemorrhagic shock

ischemia-reperfusion injury (IRI) after hemorrhage is potentiated by aortic occlusion or resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). Given the central role of mitochondrial injury in shock, we hypothesized that Elamipretide, a peptide that protects mitochondria, would mitigate IRI after hemorrhagic shock and REBOA. Twelve pigs were subjected to hemorrhagic shock and 45 min of REBOA. After 25 min of REBOA, animals received either saline or Elamipretide. Animals were transfused with autologous blood during balloon deflation, and pigs were resuscitated with isotonic crystalloids and norepinephrine for 4.25 h. Elamipretide-treated animals required less crystalloids than the controls (62.5 [50-90] and 25 [5-30] mL/kg, respectively), but similar amounts of norepinephrine (24.7 [8.6-39.3] and 9.7 [2.1-12.5] mcg/kg, respectively). Treatment animals had a significant reduction in serum creatinine (control: 2.7 [2.6-2.8]; Elamipretide: 2.4 [2.4-2.5] mg/dL; p = 0.04), troponin (control: 3.20 [2.14-5.47] ng/mL, Elamipretide: 0.22 [0.1-1.91] ng/mL; p = 0.03), and interleukin-6 concentrations at the end of the study. There were no differences in final plasma lactate concentration. Elamipretide reduced fluid requirements and protected the kidney and heart after profound IRI. Further understanding the subcellular consequences of REBOA and mitochondrial rescue will open new therapeutic avenues for patients suffering from IRI after hemorrhage.

Intraoperative hypothermia in the neonate population: risk factors, outcomes, and typical patterns

The risk factors, outcomes, and typical patterns of intraoperative hypothermia were studied in neonates to better guide the application of insulation measures in the operating room. This retrospective study enrolled 401 neonates undergoing surgery under general anaesthesia with tracheal intubation, including abdominal surgery, thoracic surgery, brain surgery, and others. The study collected basic characteristics, such as age, sex, weight, birth weight, gestational week, primary diagnosis and American Society of Anaesthesiologists (ASA) grade. Perioperative data included preoperative body temperature, length of hospital stay, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, intubation time, postoperative bleeding, postoperative pneumonia, postoperative death, and total cost of hospitalization. Intraoperative data included surgical procedures, anaesthesia duration, operation duration, blood transfusion, fluid or albumin infusion, and application of vasoactive drugs. The incidence of intraoperative hypothermia (< 36 °C) was 81.05%. Compared to normothermic patients, gestational week (OR 0.717; 95% CI 0.577-0.890; P = 0.003), preoperative temperature (OR 0.228; 95% CI 0.091-0.571; P = 0.002), duration of anaesthesia (OR 1.052; 95% CI 1.027-1.077; P < 0.001), and type of surgery (OR 2.725; 95% CI 1.292-5.747; P = 0.008) were associated with the risk of intraoperative hypothermia. Patients with hypothermia had longer length of ICU stay (P = 0.001), longer length of hospital stay (P < 0.001), and higher hospital costs (P < 0.001). But there were no association between clinical outcomes and intraoperative hypothermia in the multivariable regression adjusted analysis. The lowest point of intraoperative body temperature was approximately 1 h 30 min. Then, the body temperature of patients successively entered a short plateau phase and a period of slow ascent. The greatest decrease in body temperatures occurred in preterm babies and neonates with preoperative hypothermia. The lowest core temperatures that occurred in neonates with preoperative hypothermia was lower than 35 °C. This study shows that there is a high incidence of intraoperative hypothermia in the neonate population. The intraoperative body temperature of neonates dropped to the lowest point in 1-1.5 h. The greatest decrease in core temperatures occurred in preterm babies and neonates with lower preoperative temperature.

SHock-INduced Endotheliopathy (SHINE): A mechanistic justification for viscoelastography-guided resuscitation of traumatic and non-traumatic shock

Irrespective of the reason for hypoperfusion, hypocoagulable and/or hyperfibrinolytic hemostatic aberrancies afflict up to one-quarter of critically ill patients in shock. Intensivists and traumatologists have embraced the concept of SHock-INduced Endotheliopathy (SHINE) as a foundational derangement in progressive shock wherein sympatho-adrenal activation may cause systemic endothelial injury. The pro-thrombotic endothelium lends to micro-thrombosis, enacting a cycle of worsening perfusion and increasing catecholamines, endothelial injury, de-endothelialization, and multiple organ failure. The hypocoagulable/hyperfibrinolytic hemostatic phenotype is thought to be driven by endothelial release of anti-thrombogenic mediators to the bloodstream and perivascular sympathetic nerve release of tissue plasminogen activator directly into the microvasculature. In the shock state, this hemostatic phenotype may be a counterbalancing, yet maladaptive, attempt to restore blood flow against a systemically pro-thrombotic endothelium and increased blood viscosity. We therefore review endothelial physiology with emphasis on glycocalyx function, unique biomarkers, and coagulofibrinolytic mediators, setting the stage for understanding the pathophysiology and hemostatic phenotypes of SHINE in various etiologies of shock. We propose that the hyperfibrinolytic phenotype is exemplified in progressive shock whether related to trauma-induced coagulopathy, sepsis-induced coagulopathy, or post-cardiac arrest syndrome-associated coagulopathy. Regardless of the initial insult, SHINE appears to be a catecholamine-driven entity which early in the disease course may manifest as hyper- or hypocoagulopathic and hyper- or hypofibrinolytic hemostatic imbalance. Moreover, these hemostatic derangements may rapidly evolve along the thrombohemorrhagic spectrum depending on the etiology, timing, and methods of resuscitation. Given the intricate hemochemical makeup and changes during these shock states, macroscopic whole blood tests of coagulative kinetics and clot strength serve as clinically useful and simple means for hemostasis phenotyping. We suggest that viscoelastic hemostatic assays such as thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) are currently the most applicable clinical tools for assaying global hemostatic function-including fibrinolysis-to enable dynamic resuscitation with blood products and hemostatic adjuncts for those patients with thrombotic and/or hemorrhagic complications in shock states.

Association of antithrombin with development of trauma-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation and outcomes

Introduction

Trauma activates the innate immune system to modulate hemostasis and minimize the damage caused by physiological bodily responses, including the activation of coagulation. Sufficiently severe trauma overwhelms physiological responses and elicits the systemic inflammatory response syndrome, which leads to the onset of disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), characterized by dysregulated inflammatory coagulofibrinolytic responses. Impaired anticoagulant mechanisms, including antithrombin, constitutes the pathology of DIC, while the dynamics of antithrombin and relevance to outcomes in trauma-induced coagulopathy have not been fully elucidated. This study investigated the associations of antithrombin activity with DIC onset and outcomes in severely injured patients.

Methods

This retrospective sub-analysis of a multicenter, prospective study included patients with an injury severity score ≥16. We characterized trauma patients with low antithrombin activity (antithrombin <80% on hospital arrival, n = 75) in comparison with those who had normal antithrombin activity (antithrombin ≥80%, n = 200). Global markers of coagulation and fibrinolysis, molecular biomarkers for thrombin generation (soluble fibrin [SF]), and markers of anticoagulation (antithrombin) were evaluated to confirm the associations of antithrombin with DIC development and outcomes, including in-hospital mortality and the multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Results

Patients with low antithrombin activity had higher prevalence of shock, transfusion requirements, and in-hospital mortality. Higher DIC scores and more severe organ dysfunction were observed in the low AT group compared to that in the normal AT group. Antithrombin activity on arrival at the hospital was an independent predictor of the development of DIC in trauma patients, and levels of SF increased with lower antithrombin values (antithrombin activity > 85%). Antithrombin activity at 3 h showed good predictive performance for in-hospital mortality, and a multivariable Cox proportional-hazard regression model with a cross-product term between the antithrombin and DIC showed that the in-hospital mortality in patients with DIC increased with decreased antithrombin activity. A multivariable logistic regression model showed that the odds for the development of MODS in patients with DIC increased with lower antithrombin values.

Conclusion

Decreased antithrombin activity in trauma-induced coagulopathy is associated with poor outcomes through worsening of DIC.

MKK4 Knockdown Plays a Protective Role in Hemorrhagic Shock-Induced Liver Injury through the JNK Pathway

Hemorrhagic shock (HS) triggers tissue hypoxia and organ failure during severe blood loss, and the liver is sensitive to HS. Mitogen-activated protein kinase kinase 4 (MKK4) activates the c-Jun NH2-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway, and its expression is upregulated in the serum of HS patients and mouse livers at 1 h post-HS. However, the function of MKK4 in HS-induced liver injury is unclear. The role of MKK4 was investigated in vivo using rat models of HS. Before HS, lentivirus harboring shRNA against MKK4 was injected into rats via the tail vein to knock down MKK4 expression. HS was induced by bloodletting via intubation of the femoral artery followed by resuscitation. The results showed that MKK4 knockdown reduced HS-induced apoptosis in the liver by decreasing Bax expression and the cleavage of caspase 3 and promoting Bcl-2 expression. Moreover, the generation of intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in the liver was promoted, while superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was inhibited by HS. However, the effect of HS on oxidative stress was abrogated by MKK4 knockdown. Furthermore, MKK4 knockdown restored MMP and complex I and complex III activities and promoted ATP production, suggesting that HS-induced mitochondrial dysfunction in the liver was ameliorated by MKK4 knockdown. The inhibitory effect of MKK4 knockdown on the phosphorylation and activation of the JNK/c-Jun pathway was confirmed. Overall, MKK4 knockdown may suppress oxidative stress and subsequent apoptosis and improve mitochondrial function in the liver upon HS by inhibiting the JNK pathway. The MKK4/JNK axis was shown to be a therapeutic target for HS-induced liver injury in this study.

Utility of viscoelastic hemostatic assay to guide hemostatic resuscitation in trauma patients: a systematic review

Objective

Viscoelastic hemostatic assay (VHA) provides a graphical representation of a clot’s lifespan and reflects the real time of coagulation. It has been used to guide trauma resuscitation; however, evidence of the effectiveness of VHAs is still limited. This systematic review aims to summarize the published evidence to evaluate the VHA-guided strategy in resuscitating trauma patients.

Methods

The PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases were searched from their inception to December 13, 2021. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) or observational studies comparing VHA-guided transfusion to controls in resuscitating trauma patients were included in this systematic review.

Results

Of the 7743 records screened, ten studies, including two RCTs and eight observational studies, met the inclusion criteria. There was great heterogeneity concerning study design, enrollment criterion, VHA device, VHA-guided strategy, and control strategy. Thrombelastography (TEG) was used as a guiding tool for transfusion in eight studies, and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), and TEG or ROTEM were used in the other two studies. The overall risk of bias assessment was severe or mild in RCTs and was severe or moderate in observational studies. The main outcomes reported from the included studies were blood transfusion (n = 10), mortality (n = 10), hospital length of stay (LOS) (n = 7), intensive care unit LOS (n = 7), and cost (n = 4). The effect of the VHA-guided strategy was not always superior to the control. Most of the studies did not find significant differences in the transfusion amount of red blood cells (n = 7), plasma (n = 5), platelet (n = 7), cryoprecipitate/fibrinogen (n = 7), and mortality (n = 8) between the VHA-guided group and control group. Notable, two RCTs showed that the VHA-guided strategy was superior or equal to the conventional coagulation test-guided strategy in reducing mortality, respectively.

Conclusion

Although some studies demonstrated VHA-guided strategy probable benefit in reducing the need for blood transfusion and mortality when resuscitating trauma patients, the evidence is still not robust. The quality of evidence was primarily downgraded by the limited number of included studies and great heterogeneity and severe risk of bias in these. Further studies are strongly recommended.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13017-022-00454-8.

The potential role of ischaemia-reperfusion injury in chronic, relapsing diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, Long COVID, and ME/CFS: evidence, mechanisms, and therapeutic implications

Ischaemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury, initiated via bursts of reactive oxygen species produced during the reoxygenation phase following hypoxia, is well known in a variety of acute circumstances. We argue here that I-R injury also underpins elements of the pathology of a variety of chronic, inflammatory diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, ME/CFS and, our chief focus and most proximally, Long COVID. Ischaemia may be initiated via fibrin amyloid microclot blockage of capillaries, for instance as exercise is started; reperfusion is a necessary corollary when it finishes. We rehearse the mechanistic evidence for these occurrences here, in terms of their manifestation as oxidative stress, hyperinflammation, mast cell activation, the production of marker metabolites and related activities. Such microclot-based phenomena can explain both the breathlessness/fatigue and the post-exertional malaise that may be observed in these conditions, as well as many other observables. The recognition of these processes implies, mechanistically, that therapeutic benefit is potentially to be had from antioxidants, from anti-inflammatories, from iron chelators, and via suitable, safe fibrinolytics, and/or anti-clotting agents. We review the considerable existing evidence that is consistent with this, and with the biochemical mechanisms involved.

PEGylated Polyester Nanoparticles Trigger Adverse Events in a Large Animal Model of Trauma and in Naı̈ve Animals: Understanding Cytokine and Cellular Correlations with These Events

Intravenously infusible nanoparticles to control bleeding have shown promise in rodents, but translation into preclinical models has been challenging as many of these nanoparticle approaches have resulted in infusion responses and adverse outcomes in large animal trauma models. We developed a hemostatic nanoparticle technology that was screened to avoid one component of the infusion response: complement activation. We administered these hemostatic nanoparticles, control nanoparticles, or saline volume controls in a porcine polytrauma model. While the hemostatic nanoparticles promoted clotting as marked by a decrease in prothrombin time and both the hemostatic nanoparticles and controls did not active complement, in a subset of the animals, hard thrombi were found in uninjured tissues in both the hemostatic and control nanoparticle groups. Using data science methods that allow one to work across heterogeneous data sets, we found that the presence of these thrombi correlated with changes in IL-6, INF-alpha, lymphocytes, and neutrophils. While these findings might suggest that this formulation would not be a safe one for translation for trauma, they provide guidance for developing screening tools to make nanoparticle formulations in the complex milieux of trauma as well as for therapeutic interventions more broadly. This is important as we look to translate intravenously administered nanoparticle formulations for therapies, particularly considering the vascular changes seen in a subset of patients following COVID-19. We need to understand adverse events like thrombi more completely and screen for these events early to make nanomaterials as safe and effective as possible.

What happens after they survive? The role of anticoagulants and antiplatelets in IVC injuries

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) after an inferior vena cava (IVC) injury is a devastating complication. Current practice involves variable use of anticoagulation and antiplatelet (AC/AP) agents. We hypothesized that AC/AP can reduce the incidence of VTE and that delayed institution of AC/AP is associated with increased VTE events.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed IVC injuries cared for at a large urban adult academic level 1 trauma center between January 1, 2008 and December 31, 2020, surviving 72 hours. Patient demographics, injury mechanism, surgical repair, type and timing of AC, and type and timing of VTE events were characterized. Postoperative AC status during hospital course before an acute VTE event was delineated by grouping patients into four categories: full, prophylactic, prophylactic with concomitant AP, and none. The primary outcome was the incidence of an acute VTE event. IVC ligation was excluded from analysis.

Results

Of the 76 patients sustaining an IVC injury, 26 were included. The incidence of a new deep vein thrombosis distal to the IVC injury and a new pulmonary embolism was 31% and 15%, respectively. The median onset of VTE was 5 days (IQR 1–11). Four received full AC, 10 received prophylactic AC with concomitant AP, 8 received prophylactic AC, and 4 received no AC/AP. New VTE events occurred in 0.0% of full, in 30.0% of prophylactic with concomitant AP, in 50.0% of prophylactic, and in 50.0% without AC/AP. There was no difference in baseline demographics, injury mechanisms, surgical interventions, and bleeding complications.

Discussion

This is the first study to suggest that delay and degree of antithrombotic initiation in an IVC-injured patient may be associated with an increase in VTE events. Consideration of therapy initiation should be performed on hemostatic stabilization. Future studies are necessary to characterize the optimal dosing and temporal timing of these therapies.

Level of evidence

Therapeutic, level 3.

Time Course of Coagulo-Fibrinolytic Derangements During Acclimatization to High Altitude in Rabbits and a Preliminary Study on the Possible Mechanisms

Zhong, Xin, Zhao Ye, Xiaolin Zhou, Renqing Jiang, Yijun Jia, Wenqiong Du, Haoyang Yang, Lin Zhang, Bai Lu, and Zhaowen Zong. Time course of coagulo-fibrinolytic derangements during acclimatization to high altitude in rabbits and a preliminary study on the possible mechanisms. High Alt Med Biol. 00:000-000, 2022. Background: Conflicting data exist regarding changes in the coagulation system during acclimatization to high altitude (HA), which makes the prevention of thromboembolic events difficult. The present study aimed at observing the dynamic changes in the coagulo-fibrinolysis system during acclimatization to HA and at exploring the possible mechanisms. Materials and Methods: Twenty rabbits of both sexes were randomly divided into two groups, including group A rabbits (healthy plain controls) and group B rabbits (acutely exposed to HA). A traditional coagulation test, thromboelastography analysis, and full blood cell count were used to assess the coagulo-fibrinolytic changes at different time points. Plasma was collected to examine the levels of relevant biomarkers. Results: Six hours and 1 day after acute exposure to HA, the coagulo-fibrinolytic system demonstrated a hypercoagulable state. Further, 3 days after exposure to HA, group B rabbits showed hypocoagulability, increased fibrinolysis, and lower clot firmness and 7 days after exposure to HA, delayed coagulation, decreased fibrinolysis, and increased clot firmness were observed. Subsequently, 14, 21, and 28 days after exposure to HA, we found increased clot firmness. Increased platelet counts and concentrations of fibrinogen and plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 contributed to this change. Conclusion: The coagulo-fibrinolytic derangements during acclimatization to HA in rabbits demonstrated a dynamic pattern.

Comparative Evaluation of the Effectiveness of a Combination of Absorbable Gelatin Sponge and Calendula officinalis with Absorbable Gelatin Sponge Used Alone as a Hemostatic Agent—An In-Vitro Study

Excessive bleeding can complicate surgical intervention; this could be managed using an effective hemostatic agent that provides immediate and early bleeding control. Gelatin sponge and Calendula officinalis have been proven to have good hemostatic properties. The present In-vitro study analyzed the cytotoxicity and hemostatic properties of gelatin sponge and Calendula officinalis. The cytotoxic concentration/effective concentration of Calendula officinalis was determined by MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. The drug release was determined using a vertical Franz diffusion cell apparatus; solid-state characterization was assessed using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and a differential scanning calorimeter (DSC). The MTT assay showed 7% Calendula officinalis to be cytocompatible, and there was an increase in cell proliferation. When the 7% Calendula officinalis was loaded into the sponge, it was compatible, and the drug content was found to be 56.28 ± 13.84%. The time taken for the blood clot formation was measured using the Lee–White method. The gelatin sponge’s time for clot formation was 161.70 ± 3.11 s, and the Calendula officinalis loaded gelatin sponge’s time for clot formation was 158.75 ± 4.60 s. Hence, it could be concluded that when Calendula officinalis is incorporated into a gelatin sponge, it shows material compatibility and cytocompatibility, reduces the time for clot formation, and could be used as an alternative to other hemostatic agents.

ISO 10993 biological evaluation of novel hemostatic powder – 4SEAL®

Background

Hemostasis plays a crucial role during every surgery allowing for a bloodless operating field. Fast and effective surgery leads to a reduced risk of postoperative complications. One of the latest methods for achieving homeostasis is using natural polysaccharide-based hemostatic powders. The study aimed to evaluate the biocompatibility according to the ISO 10993 standards of 4SEAL® Hemostatic powder.

Methods

Chemical characterization (Headspace GC-MS, GC-MS, and ICP-MS), cytotoxicity, genotoxicity (MLA and AMES), endotoxin contamination, sensitization potential, intracutaneous reactivity, acute and subacute systemic toxicity with implantation, and pyrogenicity were evaluated to investigate the biocompatibility of the 4SEAL® Hemostatic powder. Studies were conducted according to ISO 10993 standards.

Results

The biocompatibility requirements according to ISO 10993-1 for 4SEAL® Hemostatic powder were met. Based on the conducted in-vitro studies, 4SEAL® Hemostatic powder shows a non-cytotoxicity and non-mutagenic potential. Also, the results of in vivo studies of 4SEAL® Hemostatic powder shows no signs of toxicity, non-sensitizing, non-irritating, and no pyrogenicity potential. In the chemical characterization of 4Seal® Hemostatic Powder, no compounds were identified above Analytical Evaluation Threshold (AET) and no elements with concentrations higher than element-specific PDE [μg/day] were detected.

Conclusions

4SEAL® Hemostatic powder is a promising new hemostatic agent with a wide range of potential applications and excellent biocompatibility.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s40824-022-00258-6.

Evaluation of health outcomes after the implementation of rotational thromboelastometry in patients undergoing cardiac surgery

BACKGROUND

Viscoelastic tests (rotational thromboelastometry, ROTEM^®), together with the implementation of a specific algorithm for coagulation management in cardiac surgery, enable perioperative coagulopathy to be better controlled.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study including 675 patients who underwent cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. The incidence of allogeneic blood transfusions and clinical postoperative complications were analyzed before and after ROTEM^® implementation.

RESULTS

Following viscoelastic testing and the implementation of a specific algorithm for coagulation management, the incidence of any allogeneic blood transfusion decreased (41.4% vs 31.9%, p = .026) during the perioperative period. In the group monitored with ROTEM^®, decreased incidence of transfusion was observed for packed red blood cells (31.3% vs 19.8%, p = .002), fresh frozen plasma (9.8% vs 3.8%, p = .008), prothrombin complex concentrate administration (0.9% vs 0.3%, p = .599) and activated recombinant factor VII (0.3% vs 0.0%, p = .603). Increased incidence was observed for platelet transfusion (4.8% vs 6.8%, p = .530) and fibrinogen concentrate (0.9% vs 3.5%, p = .066), tranexamic acid (0.0% vs 0.6%, p = .370) and protamine administration (0.6% vs 0.9%, p = .908). Similar results were observed in the postoperative period, but with a decreased incidence of platelet transfusion (4.8% vs 3.8%, p = .813). In addition, statistically significant reductions were detected in the incidence of postoperative bleeding (9.5% vs 5.3%, p = .037), surgical reexploration (6.0% vs 2.9%, p = .035), and length of Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay (6.0 days vs 5.3 days, p = .026).

CONCLUSIONS

The monitoring of hemostasis by ROTEM^® in cardiac surgery, was associated with decreased incidence of allogeneic blood transfusion, clinical hematologic postoperative complications and lengths of ICU stay.

Is It Beneficial to Optimize Vital Signs Before Embolization for Pelvic Fractures? A Dilemma Between Resuscitation and Hemostasis

Purpose

Adequate resuscitation and definitive hemostasis are both important in the management of hemorrhage related to pelvic fracture. The goal of this study was to analyze the relationship between the amount of blood transfused before transcatheter arterial embolization (TAE) and the clinical outcome later in the disease course.

Methods

Patients with pelvic fractures who underwent TAE for hemostasis from January 2018 to December 2019 were studied. The characteristics of patients who received blood transfusions of >2 U (1000 mL) and ≤2 U before TAE were compared. The mortality rate, blood transfusion-related complications, and length of stay were compared between these two groups.

Results

Among the 75 studied patients, 39 (52.0%) received blood transfusions of ≤2 U before TAE, and the other 36 (48.0%) patients received blood transfusions of >2 U before TAE. The incidence rates of systemic inflammatory response syndrome, sepsis, and coagulopathy were significantly higher in the >2 U group (97.2% vs 81.1%, P = .027; 50.0% vs 27.0%, P = .045; and 44.4% vs 5.4%, P < .01, respectively). After nonsurvivors were excluded, the >2 U group had a significantly higher proportion (43.8% vs 14.7%, P < .001) of prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (7 days or more) and a longer hospital length of stay (33.8 ± 15.1 vs 21.9 ± 94.0, P < .01) than the ≤2 U group. Pre-TAE blood transfusion >2 U serves as an independent risk factor for prolonged ICU length of stay and increased hospital length of stay.

Conclusion

Early hemostasis for pelvic fracture-related hemorrhage is suggested to prevent pre-TAE blood transfusion-associated adverse effects of blood transfusion.

Pathophysiology of Coagulopathy Induced by Traumatic Brain Injury Is Identical to That of Disseminated Intravascular Coagulation With Hyperfibrinolysis

Background: Traumatic brain injury (TBI)-associated coagulopathy is a widely recognized risk factor for secondary brain damage and contributes to poor clinical outcomes. Various theories, including disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), have been proposed regarding its pathomechanisms; no consensus has been reached thus far. This study aimed to elucidate the pathophysiology of TBI-induced coagulopathy by comparing coagulofibrinolytic changes in isolated TBI (iTBI) to those in non-TBI, to determine the associated factors, and identify the clinical significance of DIC diagnosis in patients with iTBI.

Methods: This secondary multicenter, prospective study assessed patients with severe trauma. iTBI was defined as Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) scores ≥4 in the head and neck, and ≤2 in other body parts. Non-TBI was defined as AIS scores ≥4 in single body parts other than the head and neck, and the absence of AIS scores ≥3 in any other trauma-affected parts. Specific biomarkers for thrombin and plasmin generation, anticoagulation, and fibrinolysis inhibition were measured at the presentation to the emergency department (0 h) and 3 h after arrival.

Results: We analyzed 34 iTBI and 40 non-TBI patients. Baseline characteristics, transfusion requirements and in-hospital mortality did not significantly differ between groups. The changes in coagulation/fibrinolysis-related biomarkers were similar. Lactate levels in the iTBI group positively correlated with DIC scores (rho = −0.441, p = 0.017), but not with blood pressure (rho = −0.098, p = 0.614). Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that the injury severity score was an independent predictor of DIC development in patients with iTBI (odds ratio = 1.237, p = 0.018). Patients with iTBI were further subdivided into two groups: DIC (n = 15) and non-DIC (n = 19) groups. Marked thrombin and plasmin generation were observed in all patients with iTBI, especially those with DIC. Patients with iTBI and DIC had higher requirements for massive transfusion and emergency surgery, and higher in-hospital mortality than those without DIC. Furthermore, DIC development significantly correlated with poor hospital survival; DIC scores at 0 h were predictive of in-hospital mortality.

Conclusions: Coagulofibrinolytic changes in iTBI and non-TBI patients were identical, and consistent with the pathophysiology of DIC. DIC diagnosis in the early phase of TBI is key in predicting the outcomes of severe TBI.

Impact of emergency physician-staffed ambulances on preoperative time course and survival among injured patients requiring emergency surgery or transarterial embolization: A retrospective cohort study at a community emergency department in Japan

Injured patients requiring definitive intervention, such as surgery or transarterial embolization (TAE), are an extremely time-sensitive population. The effect of an emergency physician (EP) patient care delivery system in this important trauma subset remains unclear. We aimed to clarify whether the preoperative time course and mortality among injured patients differ between ambulances staffed by EPs and those staffed by emergency life-saving technicians (ELST). This was a retrospective cohort study at a community emergency department (ED) in Japan. We included all injured patients requiring emergency surgery or TAE who were transported directly from the ED to the operating room from January 2002 to December 2019. The primary exposure was dispatch of an EP-staffed ambulance to the prehospital scene. The primary outcome measures were preoperative time course including prehospital length of stay (LOS), ED LOS, and total time to definitive intervention. The other outcome of interest was in-hospital mortality. One-to-one propensity score matching was performed to compare these outcomes between the groups. Of the 1,020 eligible patients, 353 (34.6%) were transported to the ED by an EP-staffed ambulance. In the propensity score-matched analysis with 295 pairs, the EP group showed a significant increase in median prehospital LOS (71.0 min vs. 41.0 min, P < 0.001) and total time to definitive intervention (189.0 min vs. 177.0 min, P = 0.002) in comparison with the ELST group. Conversely, ED LOS was significantly shorter in the EP group than in the ELST group (120.0 min vs. 131.0 min, P = 0.043). There was no significant difference in mortality between the two groups (8.8% vs.9.8%, P = 0.671). At a community hospital in Japan, EP-staffed ambulances were found to be associated with prolonged prehospital time, delay in definitive treatment, and did not improve survival among injured patients needing definitive hemostatic procedures compared with ELST-staffed ambulances.

An increased prothrombin time-international normalized ratio in patients with acute type A aortic dissection: contributing factors and their influence on outcomes

PURPOSE

We investigated factors contributing to coagulopathy in patients with acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) and coagulopathy's influence on patient outcomes.

METHODS

We grouped 420 patients who underwent ATAAD repair-none under anticoagulation therapy or with liver disease-by the prothrombin time-international normalized ratio (PT-INR) at admission:  <  1.2 (no coagulopathy, n  =  371), 1.2-1.49 (mild coagulopathy, n  =  33), or  ≥  1.5 (severe coagulopathy, n  =  16). We then compared the clinical presentation, dissection morphology, and outcomes among the groups. We assessed the PT-INR in relation to the preoperative hemodynamics and searched for factors predictive of a PT-INR  ≥  1.2.

RESULTS

The transfusion volume and operation time were increased among patients with coagulopathy (P  <  0.05). The in-hospital mortality (15.2-37.5% vs. 5.1%, P  < 0.001) and 5-year survival (61.1-74.4% vs. 87.6%) were relatively poor for these patients. The median PT-INR was 1.03 (0.97-1.1) for patients with stable hemodynamics (n  =  318), 1.11 (1.02-1.21) for those in shock (blood pressure  <  80 mmHg) not given cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (n  =  81), and 1.1 (1.0-1.54) for those in shock given CPR (n  =  21) (P  < 0.001). A multivariable analysis identified shock (P  <  0.001), a partially thrombosed false lumen (P  =  0.006), and mesenteric malperfusion (P  =  0.016) as predictive variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Shock, a partially thrombosed false lumen, and mesenteric malperfusion appear to be predictive of dissection-related coagulopathy, which influences outcomes negatively.

Evaluation of a novel hydrogel intravascular embolization agent in a swine model of fatal uncontrolled solid organ hemorrhage and coagulopathy

Introduction

Current agents for the intravascular embolization of traumatic hemorrhage are used off-label and have been minimally studied with respect to their performance under differing coagulation conditions. We studied the hemorrhage control efficacy of a novel, liquid, polyethylene glycol-based hydrogel delivered as two liquid precursors that polymerize within the target vessel in a unique animal model of severe solid organ injury with and without dilutional coagulopathy.

Methods

Anesthetized swine (n = 36, 45 ± 3 kg) had laparotomy and splenic externalization. Half underwent 50% isovolemic hemodilution with 6% hetastarch and cooling to 33°C-35°C (coagulopathic group). All animals had controlled 20 mL/kg hemorrhage and endovascular proximal splenic artery access with a 4F catheter via a right femoral sheath. Splenic transection and 5-minute free bleeding were followed by treatment (n = 5/group) with 5 mL of gelfoam slurry, three 6-mm coils, up to 6 mL of hydrogel, or no treatment (n = 3, control). Animals received 15 mL/kg plasma and were monitored for 6 hours with continuous blood loss measurement.

Results

Coagulopathy was successfully established, with coagulopathic animals having greater pretreatment blood loss and earlier mean time to death regardless of the treatment group. All control animals died within 100 minutes. Overall survival without coagulopathy was 5/5 for hydrogel, 4/5 for coil, and 3/5 for gelfoam. With coagulopathy, one hydrogel animal survived to the end of the experiment, with 2/4 hydrogel deaths occurring in the final hour of observation. In noncoagulopathic animals, hydrogel demonstrated improved survival time (P < .01) and post-treatment blood loss (1.46 ± 0.8 mL/kg) over controls (18.8 ± 0.7, P = .001), gelfoam (4.7 ± 1.3, P > .05), and coils (4.6 ± 1.5, P > .05). In coagulopathic animals, hydrogel had improved survival time (P = .003) and decreased blood loss (4.2 ± 0.8 mL/kg) compared with control (20.4 ± 4.2, P = .003).

Conclusions

The hydrogel demonstrated equivalent hemorrhage control performance to standard treatments under noncoagulopathic conditions and improved performance in the face of dilutional coagulopathy. This agent should be explored as a potential preferable treatment for the embolization of traumatic solid organ and other injuries. (JVS–Vascular Science 2021;2:43-51.)

Clinical Relevance

In a translational model of severe solid organ injury hemorrhage with and without coagulopathy, a novel hydrogel transarterial embolization agent demonstrated equivalent hemorrhage control performance to standard agents under noncoagulopathic conditions and improved performance in the face of dilutional coagulopathy. This agent represents a promising future treatment for the embolization of traumatic solid organ and other injuries.

Prothrombin Complex Concentrate for Trauma Induced Coagulopathy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background

Optimal management for trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) is a clinical conundrum. In conjunction with the transfusion of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP), additional administration of prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) was proposed to bring about further coagulative benefit. However, investigations evaluating the efficacy as well as corresponding side effects were scarce and inconsistent. The aim of this study was to systematically review current literature and to perform a meta-analysis comparing FFP+PCC with FFP alone.

Methods

Web search followed by manual interrogation was performed to identify relevant literatures fulfilling the following criteria, subjects as TIC patients taking no baseline anticoagulants, without underlying coagulative disorders, and reported clinical consequences. Those comparing FFP alone with PCC alone were excluded. Comprehensive Meta-analysis software was utilized, and statistical results were delineated with odd ratio (OR), mean difference (MD), and 95% confidence interval (CI). I² was calculated to determine heterogeneity. The primary endpoint was set as all-cause mortality, while the secondary endpoint consisted of international normalized ratio (INR) correction, transfusion of blood product, and thrombosis rate.

Results

One hundred and sixty-four articles were included for preliminary evaluation, 3 of which were qualified for meta-analysis. A total of 840 subjects were pooled for assessment. Minimal heterogeneity was present in the comparisons (I² < 25%). In the PCC + FFP cohort, reduced mortality rate was observed (OR: 0.631; 95% CI: 0.450-0.884, p = 0.007) after pooling. Meanwhile, INR correction time was shorter under PCC + FFP (MD: -608.300 mins, p < 0.001), whilst the rate showed no difference (p = 0.230). The PCC + FFP group is less likely to mandate transfusion of packed red blood cells (p < 0.001) and plasma (p < 0.001), but not platelet (p = 0.615). The incidence of deep vein thrombosis was comparable in the two groups (p = 0.460).

Conclusions

Compared with FFP only, PCC + FFP demonstrated better survival rate, favorable clinical recovery and no elevation of thromboembolism events after TIC.

Transrectal intracolon cooling prevents paraplegia and mortality in a rat model of aortic occlusion-induced spinal cord ischemia

OBJECTIVE

Spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion injury (SC-IRI) occurs in many medical conditions such as aneurysm surgical repair but no treatment of SC-IRI is available in clinical practice. The objective of the present study was to develop a novel medical device for the treatment of SC-IRI.

METHODS

A rat model of SC-IRI was used. A novel transrectal intracolon (TRIC) temperature management device was developed to maintain an intracolon wall temperature at either 37°C (TRIC37°C) or 12°C (TRIC12°C). The upper body temperature was maintained as close as possible to 37°C in both groups. A 2F Fogarty balloon catheter was inserted via the left common carotid artery to block the distal aortic blood flow to the spinal cord. The proximal blood pressure was controlled by the withdrawal and infusion of blood via the jugular vein catheter, such that the distal tail artery blood pressure was maintained at ∼10 mmHg for 13 and 20 minutes, respectively. Next, the balloon was deflated, and TRIC temperature management was continued for an additional 30 minutes to maintain the colon wall temperature at either 37°C or 12°C during the reperfusion period.

RESULTS

All the rats subjected to 13 minutes of spinal cord ischemia in the TRIC37°C group had developed paraplegia during the postischemic phase. In striking contrast, TRIC at 12°C completely prevented the paraplegia, dramatically improved the arterial blood gas parameters, and avoided the histopathologic injuries to the spinal cord in rats subjected to 13 minutes of spinal cord ischemia. Furthermore, TRIC12°C allowed for the extension of the ischemia duration from 13 minutes to 20 minutes, with significantly reduced functional deficits.

CONCLUSIONS

Directly cooling the intestine focally with the TRIC device offered an exceptional survival rate and functional improvement after aortic occlusion-induced spinal cord ischemia.

Evaluation of trauma-induced coagulopathy in the fibrinogen in the initial resuscitation of severe trauma trial

BACKGROUND

Coagulopathic bleeding is frequently present after major trauma. However, trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) remains incompletely understood. This laboratory analysis of blood samples derived from our completed trial on fibrinogen in the initial resuscitation of severe trauma (FiiRST) was conducted to evaluate TIC and associated responses to fibrinogen replacement.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of TIC in 45 FiiRST trial patients based on rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM), international normalized ratio (INR), and biomarkers for hemostasis and endotheliopathy. Whole blood was analyzed by ROTEM. Plasma was analyzed for INR and biomarkers.

RESULTS

Overall, 19.0% and 30.0% of the FiiRST trial patients were coagulopathic on admission defined by EXTEM maximum clot firmness out of the range of 40-71 mm and INR >1.2, respectively. The FiiRST patients showed lower fibrinogen, factor II and V levels, protein C and antiplasmin activities, higher activated protein C, tissue plasminogen activator, d-dimer, and thrombomodulin concentrations at admission than healthy controls. Most of the biomarkers changed their activities during 48-h hospitalization, but were at abnormal levels even 48-h after admission. The fibrinogen treatment reduced hypofibrinogenemia and increased factor XIII level, but had no significant effects on other biomarkers levels. Limited development of endotheliopathy was indicated by syndean-1, thrombomodulin, and sE-selectin.

CONCLUSIONS

About 19%-30% of the trauma patients in the FiiRST trial were coagulopathic on hospital admission depending on the definition of TIC. Analyses of the TIC biomarkers demonstrated that hemostasis would not return to normal after 48-h hospitalization, and fibrinogen replacement improved hypofibrinogenemia.

Role of albumin on endothelial basement membrane and hemostasis in a rat model of hemorrhagic shock

BACKGROUND

We sought to determine the extent of loss of endothelial basement membrane (BM), leukocyte recruitment, and changes in coagulation after hemorrhagic shock, followed by limited-volume resuscitation (LVR) with 5% albumin (ALB).

METHODS

Anesthetized rats were bled 40% of blood volume and assigned to treatment groups: untreated (n = 6), LVR with normal saline (NS; n = 8), or LVR with ALB (n = 8). Sham rats (n = 6) underwent all procedures except hemorrhage or resuscitation. Blood samples were assayed for active proteases, such as metalloproteinase 9 (MMP-9) and a disintegrin and metalloproteinase 10 (ADAM-10), BM-type heparan sulfate proteoglycan (perlecan), cell count, and coagulation function. Leukocyte transmigration was used to estimate the net efficiency of leukocyte recruitment in cremaster venules.

RESULTS

Hemorrhage significantly lowered red cell count, but white cell and platelet counts did not change (vs. sham). Ionized calcium in plasma was significantly reduced in untreated and remained so after NS. In contrast, ionized calcium was normalized after ALB. Plasma expansion after NS and ALB further reduced leukocyte and platelet counts. Metalloproteinase 9, ADAM-10, and perlecan were significantly higher in untreated rats (vs. sham). Albumin normalized MMP-9, ADAM-10, and perlecan levels, while NS further increased MMP-9, ADAM-10, and perlecan (vs. sham). Transmigrated leukocytes doubled in the untreated group and remained elevated after NS (vs. sham) but normalized after ALB. Albumin reduced every stage of the leukocyte recruitment process to sham levels.

CONCLUSION

Despite similar plasma expansion, NS weakened platelet function contrary to ALB. Plasma expansion with ALB resulted in restoration of BM integrity and attenuation of leukocyte recruitment to tissues, in contrast to NS. Albumin plays a critical role in restoring BM integrity, attenuating leukocyte recruitment to tissues, and optimizing hemostasis by increasing ionized calcium in plasma.

Bleeding Disorders in Primary Fibrinolysis

Fibrinolysis is a complex enzymatic process aimed at dissolving blood clots to prevent vascular occlusions. The fibrinolytic system is composed of a number of cofactors that, by regulating fibrin degradation, maintain the hemostatic balance. A dysregulation of fibrinolysis is associated with various pathological processes that result, depending on the type of abnormality, in prothrombotic or hemorrhagic states. This narrative review is focused on the congenital and acquired disorders of primary fibrinolysis in both adults and children characterized by a hyperfibrinolytic state with a bleeding phenotype.

Slounase, a Batroxobin Containing Activated Factor X Effectively Enhances Hemostatic Clot Formation and Reducing Bleeding in Hypocoagulant Conditions in Mice

Uncontrolled bleeding associated with trauma and surgery is the leading cause of preventable death. Batroxobin, a snake venom-derived thrombin-like serine protease, has been shown to clot fibrinogen by cleaving fibrinopeptide A in a manner distinctly different from thrombin, even in the presence of heparin. The biochemical properties of batroxobin and its effect on coagulation have been well characterized in vitro. However, the efficacy of batroxobin on hemostatic clot formation in vivo is not well studied due to the lack of reliable in vivo hemostasis models. Here, we studied the efficacy of batroxobin and slounase, a batroxobin containing activated factor X, on hemostatic clot composition and bleeding using intravital microcopy laser ablation hemostasis models in micro and macro vessels and liver puncture hemostasis models in normal and heparin-induced hypocoagulant mice. We found that prophylactic treatment in wild-type mice with batroxobin, slounase and activated factor X significantly enhanced platelet-rich fibrin clot formation following vascular injury. In heparin-treated mice, batroxobin treatment resulted in detectable fibrin formation and a modest increase in hemostatic clot size, while activated factor X had no effect. In contrast, slounase treatment significantly enhanced both platelet recruitment and fibrin formation, forming a stable clot and shortening bleeding time and blood loss in wild-type and heparin-treated hypocoagulant mice. Our data demonstrate that, while batroxobin enhances fibrin formation, slounase was able to enhance hemostasis in normal mice and restore hemostasis in hypocoagulant conditions via the enhancement of fibrin formation and platelet activation, indicating that slounase is more effective in controlling hemorrhage.

A Novel Cross-Linked Hemoglobin-Based Oxygen Carrier, YQ23, Extended the Golden Hour for Uncontrolled Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats and Miniature Pigs

Background: Hypotensive resuscitation is widely applied for trauma and war injury to reduce bleeding during damage-control resuscitation, but the treatment time window is limited in order to avoid hypoxia-associated organ injury. Whether a novel hemoglobin-based oxygen carrier (HBOC), YQ23 in this study, could protect organ function, and extend the Golden Hour for treatment is unclear. Method: Uncontrolled hemorrhagic shock rats and miniature pigs were infused with 0.5, 2, and 5% YQ23 before bleeding was controlled, while Lactate Ringer's solution (LR) and fresh whole blood plus LR (WB + LR) were set as controls. During hypotensive resuscitation the mean blood pressure was maintained at 50-60 mmHg for 60 min. Hemodynamics, oxygen delivery and utilization, blood loss, fluid demand, organ function, animal survival as well as side effects were observed. Besides, in order to observe whether YQ23 could extend the Golden Hour, the hypotensive resuscitation duration was extended to 180 min and animal survival was observed. Results: Compared with LR, infusion of YQ23 in the 60 min pre-hospital hypotensive resuscitation significantly reduced blood loss and the fluid demand in both rats and pigs. Besides, YQ23 could effectively stabilize hemodynamics, and increase tissue oxygen consumption, increase the cardiac output, reduce liver and kidney injury, which helped to reduce the early death and improve animal survival. In addition, the hypotensive resuscitation duration could be extended to 180 min using YQ23. Side effects such as vasoconstriction and renal injury were not observed. The beneficial effects of 5% YQ23 are equivalent to similar volume of WB + LR. Conclusion: HBOC, such as YQ23, played vital roles in damage-control resuscitation for emergency care and benefited the uncontrolled hemorrhagic shock in the pre-hospital treatment by increasing oxygen delivery, reducing organ injury. Besides, HBOC could benefit the injured and trauma patients by extending the Golden Hour.

Prehospital resuscitation

Traumatic injury is the leading cause of death in young people in the USA. Our knowledge of prehospital resuscitation is constantly evolving and is often informed by research based on military experience. A move toward balanced blood product resuscitation and away from excessive crystalloid use has led to improvements in outcomes for trauma patients. This has been facilitated by new technologies allowing more front-line use of blood products as well as use of tranexamic acid in the prehospital setting. In this article, we review current practices in prehospital resuscitation and the studies that have informed these practices.

Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy: Overview of an Emerging Medical Problem from Pathophysiology to Outcomes

Coagulopathy induced by major trauma is common, affecting approximately one-third of patients after trauma. It develops independently of iatrogenic, hypothermic, and dilutive causes (such as iatrogenic cause in case of fluid administration), which instead have a pejorative aspect on coagulopathy. Notwithstanding the continuous research conducted over the past decade on Trauma-Induced Coagulopathy (TIC), it remains a life-threatening condition with a significant impact on trauma mortality. We reviewed the current evidence regarding TIC diagnosis and pathophysiological mechanisms and summarized the different iterations of optimal TIC management strategies among which product resuscitation, potential drug administrations, and hemostatis-focused approaches. We have identified areas of ongoing investigation and controversy in TIC management.

Physicians' perceptions regarding acute bleeding management: an international mixed qualitative quantitative study

Background

Acute bleeding is an omnipresent challenge for all physicians. Uncontrolled hemorrhage is the most common preventable cause of death after trauma worldwide. In different surgical disciplines, hemorrhage represents an independent risk factor for increased postoperative morbimortality, directly affecting patients’ outcomes. This study asked anesthesiologists about their personal perceived challenges when treating bleeding patients.

Methods

This investigator-initiated, prospective, international, dual-center, mixed qualitative and quantitative study interrogated anesthesiologists about what they found easy and what difficult in treating acutely bleeding patients. Following the template approach for qualitative research, we identified major and minor topics through free inductive coding and word count. In a second step, we derived ten statements from the participants’ answers. Using a field survey, we then asked the participants to rate their level of agreement with the derived statements. We analyzed the answers using one sample Wilcoxon test and the Mann-Whitney test.

Results

We included a total of 84 physicians in the qualitative interrogations and a different group of 42 anesthesiologists in the quantitative part. We identified 11 major topics and 19 associated subtopics. The main topics and the degree of agreement (here as agree or strongly agree) were as follows: “Complexity of the topic” (52.4% agreed to find the topic complex), “Cognitive aids” (92.9% agreed to find them helpful), “Time management” (64.3% agreed to feeling time pressure), “Human factors” (95.2% agreed that human factors are essential), “Resources” (95.2% agreed that resources are essential), “Experience” and “Low frequency of cases” (57.1% agreed to lack practice), “Diagnostic methods” (31.0% agreed that the interpretation of test results is difficult), “Anticoagulation” (85.7% agreed to it being difficult), “Treatment” (81.0% agreed to knowing the first therapeutic steps), and “Nothing”.

Conclusions

Anesthesiologists in two large tertiary care facilities in different parts of the world found coagulation management, especially in anticoagulated patients, complex. We identified the delayed diagnostic test results and their interpretation as challenges. Resources, treatment protocols and human factors such as team communication were perceived to facilitate management. Future studies should explore the challenges in smaller hospitals and other parts of the world and test new technologies addressing the identified difficulties.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12871-021-01269-x.

Higher Crystalloid Volume During Initial Pediatric Trauma Resuscitation is Associated With Mortality

BACKGROUND

Historically, aggressive fluid resuscitation has been a cornerstone of management of hemorrhagic shock in pediatrics. Adult data suggest this strategy may be harmful. We sought to determine whether aggressive fluid resuscitation within the first hour of presentation to the emergency department in pediatric patients with trauma is associated with worse clinical outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study from 2012 to 2017 at a single pediatric level 1 trauma center. We defined three patient cohorts: ≤ 20 cc/kg (reference), 20-40 (20.01 to 39.99) cc/kg, and ≥40 cc/kg of intravenous fluid (IVF) given in the first in-hospital hour. Covariates included age, injury severity score, shock index (adjusted for age), and mechanism of injury and were adjusted for with multivariable regression. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality.

RESULTS

A total of 1479 consecutive injured children were eligible for inclusion. One hundred ninety-four patients were excluded for missing IVF data, aged ≥16 y, having primary burns, or arriving pulseless. A total of 1285 patients met inclusion criteria (mean age 8.1 ± 5.5 y, male 64.5%). Higher rates of IVF administration were associated with mortality for both the 20-40 cc/kg (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.96; 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.02-8.55; P = 0.045) and ≥40 cc/kg groups (aOR 6.26; 95% CI 1.79-21.83; P = 0.004). The ≥40 cc/kg group was associated with increased pediatric intensive care unit length of stay (aOR 2.20; 95% CI: 1.05-4.61; P = 0.036) and increased need for mechanical ventilation (aOR 3.79; 95% CI 1.62-8.87; P = 0.002).

CONCLUSIONS

Greater than one 20 cc/kg IVF bolus in the first emergency department hour was associated with mortality with a dose-response relationship, even after adjusting for injury severity and initial hemodynamics. These results encourage further investigation into initial resuscitation strategies for injured children.

Fluids of the Future

Fluids are a vital tool in the armament of acute care clinicians in both civilian and military resuscitation. We now better understand complications from inappropriate resuscitation with currently available fluids; however, fluid resuscitation undeniably remains a life-saving intervention. Military research has driven the most significant advances in the field of fluid resuscitation and is currently leading the search for the fluids of the future. The veterinary community, much like our civilian human counterparts, should expect the fluid of the future to be the fruit of military research. The fluids of the future not only are expected to improve patient outcomes but also be field expedient. Those fluids should be compatible with military environments or natural disaster environments. For decades, military personnel and disaster responders have faced the peculiar demands of austere environments, prolonged field care, and delayed evacuation. Large scale natural disasters present field limitations often similar to those encountered in the battlefield. The fluids of the future should, therefore, have a long shelf-life, a small footprint, and be resistant to large temperature swings, for instance. Traumatic brain injury and hemorrhagic shock are the leading causes of preventable death for military casualties and a significant burden in civilian populations. The military and civilian health systems are focusing efforts on field-expedient fluids that will be specifically relevant for the management of those conditions. Fluids are expected to be compatible with blood products, increase oxygen-carrying capabilities, promote hemostasis, and be easy to administer in the prehospital setting, to match the broad spectrum of current acute care challenges, such as sepsis and severe systemic inflammation. This article will review historical military and civilian contributions to current resuscitation strategies, describe the expectations for the fluids of the future, and describe select ongoing research efforts with a review of current animal data.

Post-Tonsillectomy Bleeding: A National Perspective

OBJECTIVES

Tonsillectomy is one of the most common otolaryngologic procedures. Hemorrhage after tonsillectomy is one of the most feared complications by surgeons and patients alike. The objective of this study was to analyze the risk factors associated with an increase in post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage in the pediatric population using a large national database.

METHODS

The Kids' Inpatient Database (KID) from 2000 to 2012 was queried for patients between the ages of 1 to 17 years with post-tonsillectomy hemorrhage. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to obtain trends in patient demographics, comorbidities, and hospital information.

RESULTS

Overall 45 940 pediatric cases of tonsillectomy were identified of which 5470 (11.9%) resulted in postoperative hemorrhage. Patients with postoperative hemorrhage were significantly older with mean age of 8.62 (±4.75) compared to all patients. Females were found to have higher rates of hemorrhage when compared to males 14.6% versus 11.5% (P < .001). The rate of white patients who had hemorrhage was 16.3% (P < .001). The most common comorbidities significantly associated with hemorrhage were fluid and electrolyte disorders (6.6% P < .001), deficiency anemia (3.8%; P < .001), and coagulopathy (2.7%; P < .001). Urban nonteaching hospitals had higher rates of hemorrhage (19.6%; P < .001) and the Northeast was the most common region (15.2%; P < .001). On multivariate analysis, older patients and white ethnicity showed a significantly increased risk of hemorrhage. Patients with pre-existing comorbidities such as coagulopathy, deficiency anemia, and fluid and electrolyte disorders circulation were also found to have higher odds ratios of bleeding.

CONCLUSION

Postoperative hemorrhage is a common complication following tonsillectomy with a rate of 11.9% in this study. A higher rate of hemorrhage was seen with increasing age, white race, and males overall, as well as patients with fluid and electrolyte disorders. Urban non-teaching hospitals and the Northeast region also saw increased rates of hemorrhage.

Serum D-dimer level as a biomarker for identifying patients with isolated injury to prevent unnecessary whole-body computed tomography in blunt trauma care

Background

Unnecessary whole-body computed tomography (CT) may lead to excess radiation exposure. Serum D-dimer levels have been reported to correlate with injury severity. We examined the predictive value of serum D-dimer level for identifying patients with isolated injury that can be diagnosed with selected-region CT rather than whole-body CT.

Methods

This single-center retrospective cohort study included patients with blunt trauma (2014–2017). We included patients whose serum D-dimer levels were measured before they underwent whole-body CT. “Isolated” injury was defined as injury with Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) score ≤ 5 to any of five regions of interest or with AIS score ≤ 1 to other regions, as revealed by a CT scan. A receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) was drawn for D-dimer levels corresponding to isolated injury; the area under the ROC (AUROC) was evaluated. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, and negative predictive value were calculated for several candidate cut-off values for serum D-dimer levels.

Results

Isolated injury was detected in 212 patients. AUROC was 0.861 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.815–0.907) for isolated injury prediction. Serum D-dimer level ≤ 2.5 μg/mL was an optimal cutoff value for predicting isolated injury with high specificity (100.0%) and positive predictive value (100.0%). Approximately 30% of patients had serum D-dimer levels below this cutoff value.

Conclusion

D-dimer level ≤ 2.5 μg/mL had high specificity and high positive predictive value in cases of isolated injury, which could be diagnosed with selected-region CT, reducing exposure to radiation associated with whole-body CT.

Hemostatic defects in massive transfusion: an update and treatment recommendations

INTRODUCTION

Acute hemorrhage is a global healthcare issue, and remains the leading preventable cause of death in trauma. Acute severe hemorrhage can be related to traumatic, peripartum, gastrointestinal, and procedural causes. Hemostatic defects occur early in patients requiring massive transfusion. Early recognition and treatment of hemorrhage and hemostatic defects are required to save lives and to achieve optimal patient outcomes.

AREAS COVERED

This review discusses current evidence and trials aimed at identifying the optimal treatment for hemostatic defects in hemorrhage and massive transfusion. Literature search included PubMed and Embase.

EXPERT OPINION

Patients with acute hemorrhage requiring massive transfusion commonly develop coagulopathy due to specific hemostatic defects, and accurate diagnosis and prompt correction are required for definitive hemorrhage control. Damage control resuscitation and massive transfusion protocols are optimal initial treatment strategies, followed by goal-directed individualized resuscitation using real-time coagulation monitoring. Distinct phenotypes exist in trauma-induced coagulopathy, including 'Bleeding' or 'Thrombotic' phenotypes, and hyperfibrinolysis vs. fibrinolysis shutdown. The trauma 'lethal triad' (hypothermia, coagulopathy, acidosis) has been updated to the 'lethal diamond' (including hypocalcemia). A number of controversies in optimal management exist, including whole blood vs. component therapy, use of factor concentrates vs. blood products, optimal use of tranexamic acid, and prehospital plasma and tranexamic acid administration.

Polytrauma management - What is new and what is true in 2020 ?

This is a review of changes in the practice of treating polytrauma managemtent within the years prior to 2020. It focuses on five different topics, 1. The development of an evidence based definition of Polytrauma, 2. Resuscitation Associated Coagulopathy (RAC), 3. neutrophil guided initial resuscitation, 4. perioperative Scoring to evaluate patients at risk, and 5. evolution of fracture fixation strategies according to protocols^1,2 (Early total care, ETC, damage control orthopedics, DCO, early appropriate care, EAC, safe definitive surgery, SDS).