A small case series of aortic balloon occlusion in trauma: lessons learned from its use in ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysms and a brief review

Vascular access complications associated with resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in adult trauma patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is gaining popularity worldwide for managing hypotensive trauma patients. Vascular access complications related to REBOA placement have been reported, with some cases resulting in permanent morbidity. We aim to capitalize on the increase in literature to further describe and estimate the incidence of REBOA-associated vascular access complications in adult trauma patients.

METHODS

We searched Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, and CINAHL for studies reporting vascular access complications of REBOA in adult trauma patients from inception to October 14, 2021. Studies reporting data from adult trauma patients who underwent REBOA insertion were eligible. Exclusion criteria included patients 15 years and younger, nontrauma patients, non-REBOA use, non-vascular access complications and patient duplication. Study data was abstracted using the PRISMA checklist and verified independently by three reviewers. Meta-analysis of proportions was performed using a random effects model with Freeman-Turkey double-arcsine transformation. Post hoc meta-regression by year of publication, sheath-size, and geographic region was also performed. The incidence of vascular access complications from REBOA insertion was the primary outcome of interest. Subgroup analysis was performed by degree of bias, sheath size, technique of vascular access, provider specialty, geographical region, and publication year.

RESULTS

Twenty-four articles were included in the systematic review and the meta-analysis, for a total of 675 trauma patients who underwent REBOA insertion. The incidence of vascular access complications was 8% (95% confidence interval, 5%-13%). In post hoc meta-regression adjusting for year of publication and geographic region, the use of a smaller (7-Fr) sheath was associated with a decreased incidence of vascular access complications (odds ratio, 0.87; 95% confidence interval, 0.75-0.99; p = 0.046; R 2 = 35%; I 2 = 48%).

CONCLUSION

This study provides a benchmark for quality of care in terms of vascular access complications related to REBOA insertion in adult trauma patients. Smaller sheath size may be associated with a decrease in vascular access complications.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis; Level III.

A randomized porcine study of hemorrhagic shock comparing end-tidal carbon dioxide targeted and proximal systolic blood pressure targeted partial resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in the mitigation of metabolic injury

BACKGROUND

The definition of partial resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (pREBOA) is not yet determined and clinical markers of the degree of occlusion, metabolic effects and end-organ injury that are clinically monitored in real time are lacking. The aim of the study was to test the hypothesis that end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO₂) targeted pREBOA causes less metabolic disturbance compared to proximal systolic blood pressure (SBP) targeted pREBOA in a porcine model of hemorrhagic shock.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Twenty anesthetized pigs (26-35 kg) were randomized to 45 min of either ETCO₂ targeted pREBOA (pREBOA_ETCO2, ETCO₂ 90-110% of values before start of occlusion, n = 10) or proximal SBP targeted pREBOA (pREBOA_SBP, SBP 80-100 mmHg, n = 10), during controlled grade IV hemorrhagic shock. Autotransfusion and reperfusion over 3 h followed. Hemodynamic and respiratory parameters, blood samples and jejunal specimens were analyzed.

RESULTS

ETCO₂ was significantly higher in the pREBOA_ETCO2 group during the occlusion compared to the pREBOA_SBP group, whereas SBP, femoral arterial mean pressure and abdominal aortic blood flow were similar. During reperfusion, arterial and mesenteric lactate, plasma creatinine and plasma troponin concentrations were higher in the pREBOA_SBP group.

CONCLUSIONS

In a porcine model of hemorrhagic shock, ETCO₂ targeted pREBOA caused less metabolic disturbance and end-organ damage compared to proximal SBP targeted pREBOA, with no disadvantageous hemodynamic impact. End-tidal CO₂ should be investigated in clinical studies as a complementary clinical tool for mitigating ischemic-reperfusion injury when using pREBOA.

Endovascular Resuscitation and Trauma Management (EVTM)-Practical Aspects and Implementation

ABSTRACT

In recent years there has been a tremendous increase in hemorrhage control by endovascular methods. Traumatic and non-traumatic hemorrhage is being more frequently managed with endografts, embolization agents, and minimal invasive methods. These methods initially were used in hemodynamically stable patients only, whereas now these are being implemented in acute settings and hemodynamically unstable patients. The strategy of using endovascular and combined open-endo methods approach for hemodynamic instability in trauma and non-trauma patients has been named EVTM- EndoVascular resuscitation and Trauma Management. The EVTM concept will be presented in this article, describing how it is developed and used, as well as its limitations and future aspects.

End-tidal Carbon Dioxide as an Indicator of Partial REBOA and Distal Organ Metabolism in Normovolemia and Hemorrhagic Shock in Anesthetized Pigs

INTRODUCTION

It is difficult to estimate the ischemic consequences when using partial resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). The aim was to investigate if end-tidal carbon dioxide (ETCO2) is correlated to degree of aortic occlusion, measured as distal aortic blood flow, and distal organ metabolism, estimated as systemic oxygen consumption (VO2), in a porcine model of normovolemia and hemorrhagic shock.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nine anesthetized pigs (25-32 kg) were subjected to incremental steps of zone 1 aortic occlusion (reducing distal aortic blood flow by 33%, 66%, and 100%) during normovolemia and hemorrhagic grade IV shock. Hemodynamic and respiratory variables, and blood samples, were measured. Systemic VO2 was correlated to ETCO2 and measures of partial occlusion previously described.

RESULTS

Aortic occlusion gradually lowered distal blood flow and pressure, whereas ETCO2, VO2 and carbon dioxide production decreased at 66% and 100% aortic occlusion. Aortic blood flow correlated significantly to ETCO2 during both normovolemia and hemorrhage (R = 0.84 and 0.83, respectively) and to femoral mean pressure (R = 0.92 and 0.83, respectively). Systemic VO2 correlated strongly to ETCO2 during both normovolemia and hemorrhage (R = 0.91 and 0.79, respectively), blood flow of the superior mesenteric artery (R = 0.77 and 0.85, respectively) and abdominal aorta (R = 0.78 and 0.78, respectively), but less to femoral blood pressure (R = 0.71 and 0.54, respectively).

CONCLUSION

ETCO2 was correlated to distal aortic blood flow and VO2 during incremental degrees of aortic occlusion thereby potentially reflecting the degree of aortic occlusion and the ischemic consequences of partial REBOA. Further studies of ETCO2, and potential confounders, in partial REBOA are needed before clinical use.

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta for Blood Control in Lumbar Spine Tumor Resection Surgery: A Technical Note

Objectives

To describe the technique of the aorta balloon occlusion, and evaluate the blood loss in lumbar spine tumor surgery assisted by aortic balloon occlusion, and to observe the balloon‐related complications.

Methods

Six patients with lumbar spine tumor underwent resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta prior to tumor resections in our institution between May 2018 to January 2021. Medical records including demographic, diagnosis, tumor location, surgical approach, intraoperative blood loss, surgical duration, and perioperative balloon‐related complication were evaluated retrospectively.

Results

This series included four males and two females, with a median age of 50 years (range 22 to 69). Of these, three primary tumors were plasmacytoma, giant cell tumor of bone, and osteosarcoma, while recurrence of undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), recurrence of giant cell tumor of bone (GCT), and metastatic thyroid cancer were diagnosed in cases 1, 6, and 2, respectively. L₂ was involved in cases 1 and 5. L₃ was involved in case 6. L₄ was involved in case 2, 3, and 6. L₅ was involved in case 4. One‐stage total en bloc resection surgery (TES) was accomplished in all patients; of this series, signal anterior approach was conducted in case 1, signal posterior approach was utilized in cases 2, 3, and 6, while combined anterior and posterior approach was performed in cases 4 and 5. The median intraoperative blood loss was 1683 mL and ranged from 400 to 3200 mL with a median surgical duration of 442 min and a range from 210 to 810 min. During the perioperative period, no serious balloon‐related complications occurred.

Conclusions

Endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta successfully controls intraoperative exsanguination, contributing to a more radical tumor resection and a low rate of tumor cell contamination in lumbar tumor surgery.

Pulmonary Vasodilation by Intravenous Infusion of Organic Mononitrites Of 1,2-Propanediol in Acute Pulmonary Hypertension Induced by Aortic Cross Clamping and Reperfusion: A Comparison With Nitroglycerin in Anesthetized Pigs

INTRODUCTION

Suprarenal aortic cross clamping (SRACC) and reperfusion may cause acute pulmonary hypertension and multiple organ failure.

HYPOTHESIS

The organic mononitrites of 1,2-propanediol (PDNO), an nitric oxide donor with a very short half-life, are a more efficient pulmonary vasodilator and attenuator of end-organ damage and inflammation without significant side effects compared with nitroglycerin and inorganic nitrite in a porcine SRACC model.

METHODS

Anesthetized and instrumented domestic pigs were randomized to either of four IV infusions until the end of the experiment (n = 10 per group): saline (control), PDNO (45 nmol kg min), nitroglycerin (44 nmol kg min), or inorganic nitrite (a dose corresponding to PDNO). Thereafter, all animals were subjected to 90 min of SRACC and 10 h of reperfusion and protocolized resuscitation. Hemodynamic and respiratory variables as well as blood samples were collected and analysed.

RESULTS

During reperfusion, mean pulmonary arterial pressure and pulmonary vascular resistance were significantly lower, and stroke volume was significantly higher in the PDNO group compared with the control, nitroglycerin, and inorganic nitrite groups. In parallel, mean arterial pressure, arterial oxygenation, and fraction of methaemoglobin were similar in all groups. The serum concentration of creatinine and tumor necrosis factor alpha were lower in the PDNO group compared with the control group during reperfusion.

CONCLUSIONS

PDNO was an effective pulmonary vasodilator and appeared superior to nitroglycerin and inorganic nitrite, without causing significant systemic hypotension, impaired arterial oxygenation, or methaemoglobin formation in an animal model of SRACC and reperfusion. Also, PDNO may have kidney-protective effects and anti-inflammatory properties.

Low profile REBOA device for increasing systolic blood pressure in hemodynamic instability: single-center 4-year experience of use of ER-REBOA

Background

Hemodynamic instability due to torso hemorrhage can be managed with the assistance of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA). This is a report of a single-center experience using the ER-REBOA™ catheter for traumatic and non-traumatic cases as an adjunct to hemorrhage control and as part of the EndoVascular resuscitation and Trauma Management (EVTM) concept. The objective of this report is to describe the clinical usage, technical success, results, complications and outcomes of the ER-REBOA™ catheter at Örebro University hospital, a middle-sized university hospital in Europe.

Methods

Data concerning patients receiving the ER-REBOA™ catheter for any type of hemorrhagic shock and hemodynamic instability at Örebro University hospital in Sweden were collected prospectively from October 2015 to May 2020.

Results

A total of 24 patients received the ER-REBOA™ catheter (with the intention to use) for traumatic and non-traumatic hemodynamic control; it was used in 22 patients. REBOA was performed or supervised by vascular surgeons using 7–8 Fr sheaths with an anatomic landmark or ultrasound guidance. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) increased significantly from 50 mmHg (0–63) to 95 mmHg (70–121) post REBOA. In this cohort, distal embolization and balloon rupture due to atherosclerosis were reported in one patient and two patients developed renal failure. There were no cases of balloon migration. Overall 30-day survival was 59%, with 45% for trauma patients and 73% for non-traumatic patients. Responders to REBOA had a significantly lower rate of mortality at both 24 h and 30 days.

Conclusions

Our clinical data and experience show that the ER-REBOA™ catheter can be used for control of hemodynamic instability and to significantly increase SBP in both traumatic and non-traumatic cases, with relatively few complications. Responders to REBOA have a significantly lower rate of mortality.

REBOA as a New Damage Control Component in Hemodynamically Unstable Noncompressible Torso Hemorrhage Patients

Noncompressible torso hemorrhage is one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide. An efficient and appropriate evaluation of the trauma patient with ongoing hemorrhage is essential to avoid the development of the lethal diamond (hypothermia, coagulopathy, hypocalcemia, and acidosis). Currently, the initial management strategies include permissive hypotension, hemostatic resuscitation, and damage control surgery. However, recent advances in technology have opened the doors to a wide variety of endovascular techniques that achieve these goals with minimal morbidity and limited access. An example of such advances has been the introduction of the Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA), which has received great interest among trauma surgeons around the world due to its potential and versatility in areas such as trauma, gynecology & obstetrics and gastroenterology. This article aims to describe the experience earned in the use of REBOA in noncompressible torso hemorrhage patients. Our results show that REBOA can be used as a new component in the damage control resuscitation of the severely injured trauma patient. To this end, we propose two new deployment algorithms for hemodynamically unstable noncompressible torso hemorrhage patients: one for blunt and another for penetrating trauma. We acknowledge that REBOA has its limitations, which include a steep learning curve, its inherent cost and availability. Although to reach the best outcomes with this new technology, it must be used in the right way, by the right surgeon with the right training and to the right patient.

The Effects of the Duration of Aortic Balloon Occlusion on Outcomes of Traumatic Cardiac Arrest in a Porcine Model

Aortic balloon occlusion (ABO) facilitates the success of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in non-traumatic cardiac arrest, and is also effective in controlling traumatic hemorrhage; however, a prolonged occlusion results in irreversible organ injury and death. In this study, we investigated the effects of ABO on CPR outcomes and its optimal duration for post-resuscitation organ protection in a porcine model of traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA).Twenty-seven male domestic pigs weighing 33 ± 4 kg were utilized. Forty percent of estimated blood volume was removed within 20 min. The animals were then subjected to 5 min of untreated ventricular fibrillation and 5 min of CPR. Coincident with the start of CPR, the animals were randomized to receive either 30-min ABO (n = 7), 60-min ABO (n = 8) or control (n = 12). Meanwhile, fluid resuscitation was initiated by the infusion of normal saline with 1.5 times of hemorrhage volume in 1 h, and finished by the reinfusion of 50% of the shed blood in another 1 h. The resuscitated animals were monitored for 6 h and observed for an additional 18 h.During CPR, coronary perfusion pressure was significantly increased followed by a higher rate of resuscitation success in the 30 and 60-min ABO groups compared with the control group. However, post-resuscitation cardiac, neurologic dysfunction, and injuries were significantly milder accompanied with less renal and intestinal injuries in the 30-min ABO group than in the other two groups.In conclusion, ABO augmented the efficacy of CPR after TCA, and furthermore a 30-min ABO improved post-resuscitation cardiac and neurologic outcomes without exacerbating the injuries of kidney and intestine.

Partial Versus Complete Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta in Exsanguinating Trauma Patients With Non-Compressible Torso Hemorrhage

Hemorrhage is a major cause of death globally, yet our options to control the condition have remained limited. The standard intervention for patients suffering from a non-compressible torso hemorrhage (NCTH) typically involves resuscitative thoracotomy (RT) with aortic cross-clamping. Apart from being extraordinarily invasive, the survival rates for this procedure remain low. Over the years, research has surfaced that offers much promise regarding the use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) in exsanguinating patients. Although this type of procedure is not yet universally recognized as a gold standard, it holds some hope for the development of additional research regarding how we can make use of this advancement to improve survival in trauma patients. Complete REBOA (c-REBOA) has not gained wide acceptance due to the undeniable effects it has on normal physiology, metabolic effects, long-term complications, and mortality. Partial REBOA (p-REBOA) is not yet fully validated by research but could potentially be the answer to our problem. The critical question that we should address at this juncture is as follows: how can we improve the survival of patients with an NCTH in the least invasive way possible, while also reducing the feared complications associated with c-REBOA?

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta in Experimental Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation: Aortic Occlusion Level Matters

Introduction:

Aortic occlusion during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) increases systemic arterial pressures. Correct thoracic placement during the resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) may be important for achieving effective CPR.

Hypothesis:

The positioning of the REBOA in the thoracic aorta during CPR will affect systemic arterial pressures.

Methods:

Cardiac arrest was induced in 27 anesthetized pigs. After 7 min of CPR with a mechanical compression device, REBOA in the thoracic descending aorta at heart level (zone Ib, REBOA-Ib, n = 9), at diaphragmatic level (zone Ic, REBOA-Ic, n = 9) or no occlusion (control, n = 9) was initiated. The primary outcome was systemic arterial pressures during CPR.

Results:

During CPR, REBOA-Ic increased systolic blood pressure from 86 mmHg (confidence interval [CI] 71–101) to 128 mmHg (CI 107–150, P < 0.001). Simultaneously, mean and diastolic blood pressures increased significantly in REBOA-Ic (P < 0.001 and P = 0.006, respectively), and were higher than in REBOA-Ib (P = 0.04 and P = 0.02, respectively) and control (P = 0.005 and P = 0.003, respectively). REBOA-Ib did not significantly affect systemic blood pressures. Arterial pH decreased more in control than in REBOA-Ib and REBOA-Ic after occlusion (P = 0.004 and P = 0.005, respectively). Arterial lactate concentrations were lower in REBOA-Ic compared with control and REBOA-Ib (P = 0.04 and P < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions:

Thoracic aortic occlusion in zone Ic during CPR may be more effective in increasing systemic arterial pressures than occlusion in zone Ib. REBOA during CPR was found to be associated with a more favorable acid–base status of circulating blood. If REBOA is used as an adjunct in CPR, it may be of importance to carefully determine the aortic occlusion level.

The study was performed following approval of the Regional Animal Ethics Committee in Linköping, Sweden (application ID 418).

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the inferior vena cava is made hemodynamically possible by concomitant endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta-A porcine study

BACKGROUND

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the vena cava inferior (REBOVC) may provide a minimal invasive alternative for hepatic vascular and inferior vena cava isolation in severe retrohepatic bleeding. However, circulatory stability may be compromised by the obstruction of venous return. The aim was to explore which combinations of arterial and venous endovascular balloon occlusions, and the Pringle maneuver, are hemodynamically possible in a normovolemic pig model. The hypothesis was that lower-body venous blood pooling from REBOVC can be avoided by prior resuscitative endovascular aortic balloon occlusion (REBOA).

METHODS

Nine anesthetized, ventilated, instrumented, and normovolemic pigs were used to explore the hemodynamic effects of 11 combinations of REBOA and REBOVC, with or without the Pringle maneuver, in randomized order. The occlusions were performed for 5 minutes but interrupted if systolic blood pressure dropped below 40 mm Hg. Hemodynamic variables were measured.

RESULTS

Proximal REBOVC, isolated or in combination with other methods of occlusion, caused severely decreased systemic blood pressure and cardiac output, and had to be terminated before 5 minutes. The decreases in systemic blood pressure and cardiac output were avoided by REBOA at the same or a more proximal level. The Pringle maneuver had similar hemodynamic effects to proximal REBOVC.

CONCLUSION

A combination of REBOA and REBOVC provides hemodynamic stability, in contrast to REBOVC alone or with the Pringle maneuver, and may be a possible adjunct in severe retrohepatic venous bleedings.

Total resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta causes inflammatory activation and organ damage within 30 minutes of occlusion in normovolemic pigs

Background

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) causes physiological, metabolic, end-organ and inflammatory changes that need to be addressed for better management of severely injured patients. The aim of this study was to investigate occlusion time-dependent metabolic, end-organ and inflammatory effects of total REBOA in Zone I in a normovolemic animal model.

Methods

Twenty-four pigs (25-35 kg) were randomized to total occlusion REBOA in Zone I for either 15, 30, 60 min (REBOA15, REBOA30, and REBOA60, respectively) or to a control group, followed by 3-h reperfusion. Hemodynamic variables, metabolic and inflammatory response, intraperitoneal and intrahepatic microdialysis, and plasma markers of end-organ injuries were measured during intervention and reperfusion. Intestinal histopathology was performed.

Results

Mean arterial pressure and cardiac output increased significantly in all REBOA groups during occlusion and blood flow in the superior mesenteric artery and urinary production subsided during intervention. Metabolic acidosis with increased intraperitoneal and intrahepatic concentrations of lactate and glycerol was most pronounced in REBOA30 and REBOA60 during reperfusion and did not normalize at the end of reperfusion in REBOA60. Inflammatory response showed a significant and persistent increase of pro- and anti-inflammatory cytokines during reperfusion in REBOA30 and was most pronounced in REBOA60. Plasma concentrations of liver, kidney, pancreatic and skeletal muscle enzymes were significantly increased at the end of reperfusion in REBOA30 and REBOA60. Significant intestinal mucosal damage was present in REBOA30 and REBOA60.

Conclusion

Total REBOA caused severe systemic and intra-abdominal metabolic disturbances, organ damage and inflammatory activation already at 30 min of occlusion.

The 10 commandments of exsanguinating pelvic fracture management

Background:

Unstable pelvic fractures are highly lethal injuries.

Objective:

The review aims to summarize the landmark management changes in the past two decades.

Methods:

Structured review based on pertinent published literatures on severe pelvic fracture was performed.

Results:

Ten key management points were identified.

Conclusion:

These 10 recommendations help diminish and prevent the mortality. (1) Before the ABCDE management, preparedness, protection, and decision are essential to optimize patient outcome and to conserve resources. (2) Do not rock the pelvis to check stability, avoid logrolling but prophylactic pelvic binder can be life-saving. (3) Computed tomography scanner can be the tunnel to death for hemodynamically unstable patients. (4) Correct application of pelvic binder at the greater trochanter level to achieve the most effective compression. (5) Choose the suitable binder (BEST does not exist, always look for BETTER) to facilitate body examination and therapeutic intervention. (6) Massive transfusion protocol is only a temporizing measure to sustain the circulation for life maintenance. (7) Damage control operation aims to promptly stop the bleeding to restore the physiology by combating the trauma lethal triad to be followed by definitive anatomical repair. (8) Protocol-driven teamwork management expedites the completion of the multi-phase therapy including external pelvic fixation, pre-peritoneal pelvic packing, and angio-embolization, preceded by laparotomy when indicated. (9) Resuscitation endovascular balloon occlusion of aorta can reduce the pelvic bleeding while awaiting hospital transfer or operation theater access. (10) Operation is the definitive therapy for trauma but prevention is the best treatment, comprising primary, secondary, and tertiary levels.

For debate: advanced bleeding control potentially saves lives in armed forces and should be considered

INTRODUCTION

Advanced bleeding control options for truncal and junctional haemorrhage including resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) have been used in managing catastrophic bleeding. The primary aim is to report on potential indications for advanced bleeding control in combat casualties during the Dutch deployment in Uruzgan, Afghanistan, between August 2006 and August 2010. The secondary aim is to report on training methods for advanced bleeding control in (para)medical personnel.

METHODS

The trauma registry from the Dutch role 2 enhanced medical treatment facility at Tarin Kowt, Uruzgan, Afghanistan, was used to analyse patients who sustained a battle injury with major haemorrhage. Furthermore, a comprehensive search was performed on training (para)medical personnel in advanced bleeding control.

RESULTS

There were 212 possible indications for advanced bleeding control with mortality of 28.8% (61/212). These possible indications consisted of 1.9% (4/212) junctional lower extremity injuries with a 75% (3/4) mortality rate, 59% (125/212) visceral vascular injuries with a mortality rate of 12.5% (26/125). The junctional and visceral injuries (n=129) were all potential indications for advanced bleeding control options, such as REBOA. Further 39.2% (83/212) casualties with central thoracic or neck injuries had a mortality rate of 38.6% (32/83). Based on an Abbreviated Injury Scale chest or abdomen score ≥461 indications for advanced bleeding control were identified. A 24-hour average of 8.8 packets of red blood cells, 4.2 packets of plasma and 1.9 packets of platelets was used to prevent exsanguination. The total out-of-hospital survival rate was 64% (39/61).

CONCLUSION

Retrospective analysis revealed 212 potential indications for advanced bleeding control with a mortality of 28.8% (61/212). Advanced bleeding control, such as REBOA, might have improved survival in approximately 61 of 212 casualties. Advanced bleeding control could be used as an adjunct to improve outcomes in major truncal or junctional haemorrhage in prehospital, remote settings and implementation should be considered. Vascular access training and REBOA placement for (para)medical military personnel should be explored in future research.

Migration of Aortic Occlusion Balloons in an in vitro model of the human circulation

BACKGROUND

Aortic Occlusion Balloons (AOB) are used for hemorrhage control in hemodynamically unstable patients. Stability of an AOB is essential for reliable aortic occlusion. The primary aim of this study is to determine whether different types of AOB migrate after total, intermittent or partial occlusion in a porcine aorta positioned in an in vitro model.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A porcine thoracic aortic section was positioned in a model of the human circulation. Primary and secondary migration was tested in Cook Coda™ 2-9.0-35-120-32 and 2-10-35-140-46, Cook Medical, USA; Rescue balloon™ Tokai RB-167080-E, Tokai Medical Products, Japan; Reliant™ AB46, Medtronic, USA; Russian prototype AOB; ER-REBOA™, Prytime Medical Devices, USA; LeMaitre™ 28 and 45 Aortic Occlusion Catheter, LeMaitre Vascular, USA. These AOB were tested in hypotensive, normotensive and hypertensive scenarios. Migration in total occlusion, intermittent occlusion and partial occlusion was recorded for all AOB.

RESULTS

Limited primary migration occurred in all AOB after total occlusion. The Cook Coda™ 2-9.0-35-120-32 balloon showed maximal migration in 1 test cycle. No migration occurred during intermittent occlusion. Kinking occurs in various degrees but does not seem to prevent a successful occlusion of the aorta. No migration occurred during partial occlusion except in the Russian prototype AOB. In a partial occlusion scenario, distal perfusion occurred only with 5 ml remaining in all balloon types.

CONCLUSIONS

All AOB were successful in full aortic occlusion. Limited primary migration occurred in all AOB after total occlusion only the Cook Coda™ 2-9.0-35-120-32 balloon showed maximal migration once. No migration occurred during intermittent occlusion, during partial occlusion only the Russian prototype AOB migrated. Stiffness and size of the catheter are important factors in preventing migration and kinking.

A Consensus-Based Criterion Standard for the Requirement of a Trauma Team

BACKGROUND

Trauma team activation (TTA) represents a considerable expenditure of trauma centre resources. It is mainly triggered by field triage criteria. The overall quality of the criteria may be evaluated based on the rate of over- and undertriage. However, there is no gold standard that defines which adult patients truly require a trauma team. The objective of this study was to develop consensus-based criteria defining the necessity for a trauma team.

METHODS

A consensus group was formed by trauma specialists experienced in emergency and trauma care with a specific interest in field triage and having previously participated in guideline development. A literature search was conducted to identify criteria that have already been used or suggested. The initial list of criteria was discussed in two Delphi round and two consensus conferences. The entire process of discussion and voting was highly standardized and extensively documented, resulting in a final list of criteria.

RESULTS

Initially 95 criteria were identified. This was subsequently reduced to 20 final criteria to appropriately indicate the requirement for attendance of a trauma team. The criteria address aspects related to injury severity, admission to an intensive care unit, death within 24 h, need for specified invasive procedures, need for surgical and/or interventional radiological procedures, and abnormal vital signs within a defined time period.

CONCLUSIONS

The selected criteria may be applied as a tool for research and quality control concerning TTA. However, future studies are necessary to further evaluate for possible redundancy in criteria that may allow for further reduction in criteria.

The utilization of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta: preparation, technique, and the implementation of a novel approach to stabilizing hemorrhage

Noncompressible torso hemorrhage (NCTH), if not controlled promptly, leads to death. In the acute setting, aortic occlusion can be performed as damage control surgery (DCS) for hemorrhage originating from the abdomen and pelvis. With the development of endovascular technology, an intra-aortic balloon can be used to achieve aortic occlusion and decrease hemorrhage. Recently, resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) has been accepted as a salvage technique for the temporary stabilization of patients with NCTH. However, balloon occlusion is not easily performed in trauma patients. In this article, we described preparation, technical description, and conceptual understanding of REBOA.

The use of aortic balloon occlusion in traumatic shock: first report from the ABO trauma registry

PURPOSE

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is a technique for temporary stabilization of patients with non-compressible torso hemorrhage. This technique has been increasingly used worldwide during the past decade. Despite the good outcomes of translational studies, clinical studies are divided. The aim of this multicenter-international study was to capture REBOA-specific data and outcomes.

METHODS

REBOA practicing centers were invited to join this online register, which was established in September 2014. REBOA cases were reported, both retrospective and prospective. Demographics, injury patterns, hemodynamic variables, REBOA-specific data, complications and 30-days mortality were reported.

RESULTS

Ninety-six cases from 6 different countries were reported between 2011 and 2016. Mean age was 52 ± 22 years and 88% of the cases were blunt trauma with a median injury severity score (ISS) of 41 (IQR 29-50). In the majority of the cases, Zone I REBOA was used. Median systolic blood pressure before balloon inflation was 60 mmHg (IQR 40-80), which increased to 100 mmHg (IQR 80-128) after inflation. Continuous occlusion was applied in 52% of the patients, and 48% received non-continuous occlusion. Occlusion time longer than 60 min was reported as 38 and 14% in the non-continuous and continuous groups, respectively. Complications, such as extremity compartment syndrome (n = 3), were only noted in the continuous occlusion group. The 30-day mortality for non-continuous REBOA was 48%, and 64% for continuous occlusion.

CONCLUSIONS

This observational multicenter study presents results regarding continuous and non-continuous REBOA with favorable outcomes. However, further prospective studies are needed to be able to draw conclusions on morbidity and mortality.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in the management of major exsanguination

BACKGROUND

Circulatory collapse is a leading cause of mortality among traumatic major exsanguination and in ruptured aortic aneurysm patients. Approximately 40% of patients die before hemorrhage control is achieved. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is an adjunct designed to sustain the circulation until definitive surgical or endovascular repair. A systematic review was conducted for the current clinical use of REBOA in patients with hemodynamic instability and to discuss its potential role in improving prehospital and in-hospital outcome.

METHODS

Systematic review and meta-analysis (1900-2017) using MEDLINE, Cochrane, EMBASE, Web of Science and Central and Emcare using the keywords "aortic balloon occlusion", "aortic balloon tamponade", "REBOA", and "Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion" in combination with hemorrhage control, hemorrhage, resuscitation, shock, ruptured abdominal or thoracic aorta, endovascular repair, and open repair. Original published studies on human subjects were considered.

RESULTS

A total of 490 studies were identified; 89 met criteria for inclusion. Of the 1436 patients, overall reported mortality was 49.2% (613/1246) with significant differences (p < 0.001) between clinical indications. Hemodynamic shock was evident in 79.3%, values between clinical indications showed significant difference (p < 0.001). REBOA was favored as treatment in trauma patients in terms of mortality. Pooled analysis demonstrated an increase in mean systolic pressure by almost 50 mmHg following REBOA use.

CONCLUSION

REBOA has been used in trauma patients and ruptured aortic aneurysm patients with improvement of hemodynamic parameters and outcomes for several decades. Formal, prospective study is warranted to clarify the role of this adjunct in all hemodynamic unstable patients.

Use of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta in a Multidisciplinary Approach

The usage of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, also known as aortic balloon occlusion, is an emerging method for bleeding control as a bridge to definitive treatment in trauma management. We describe a trauma case where resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta was used as part of the EndoVascular hybrid Trauma and bleeding Management concept to facilitate transient hemorrhage control and thereby to permit damage control surgery. The case is an illustration of the adoption of a multidisciplinary approach.

The pitfalls of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta: Risk factors and mitigation strategies

Despite technological advancements, REBOA is associated with significant risks due to complications of vascular access and ischemia-reperfusion. The inherent morbidity and mortality of REBOA is often compounded by coexisting injury and hemorrhagic shock. Additionally, the potential for REBOA-related injuries is exaggerated due to the growing number of interventions being performed by providers who have limited experience in endovascular techniques, inadequate resources, minimal training in the technique, and who are performing this maneuver in emergency situations. In an effort to ultimately improve outcomes with REBOA, we sought to compile a list of complications that may be encountered during REBOA usage. To address the current knowledge gap, we assembled a list of anecdotal complications from high-volume REBOA users internationally. More importantly, through a consensus model, we identify contributory factors that may lead to complications and deliberate on how to recognize, mitigate, and manage such events. An understanding of the pitfalls of REBOA and strategies to mitigate their occurrence is of vital importance to optimize patient outcomes.

Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta in trauma: a systematic review of the literature

AIMS

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta has been a hot topic in trauma resuscitation during these last years. The aims of this systematic review are to analyze when, how, and where this technique is performed and to evaluate preliminary results.

METHODS

The literature search was performed on online databases in December 2016, without time limits. Studies citing endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta in trauma were retrieved for evaluation.

RESULTS

Sixty-one articles met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the systematic review. Overall, they included 1355 treated with aortic endovascular balloon occlusion, and 883 (65%) patients died after the procedure. In most of the included cases, a shock state seemed to be present before the procedure. Time of death and inflation site was not described in the majority of included studies. Procedure-related and shock-related complications are described. Introducer sheath size and comorbidity seems to play the role of risk factors.

CONCLUSIONS

Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta is increasingly used in trauma victim resuscitation all over the world, to elevate blood pressure and limit fluid infusion, while other procedures aimed to stop the bleeding are performed. High mortality rate is probably due to the severity of the injuries. Time and place of balloon insertion, zone of balloon inflation, and inflation cutoff time are very heterogeneous.

Pelvic trauma: WSES classification and guidelines

Complex pelvic injuries are among the most dangerous and deadly trauma related lesions. Different classification systems exist, some are based on the mechanism of injury, some on anatomic patterns and some are focusing on the resulting instability requiring operative fixation. The optimal treatment strategy, however, should keep into consideration the hemodynamic status, the anatomic impairment of pelvic ring function and the associated injuries. The management of pelvic trauma patients aims definitively to restore the homeostasis and the normal physiopathology associated to the mechanical stability of the pelvic ring. Thus the management of pelvic trauma must be multidisciplinary and should be ultimately based on the physiology of the patient and the anatomy of the injury. This paper presents the World Society of Emergency Surgery (WSES) classification of pelvic trauma and the management Guidelines.

EndoVascular and Hybrid Trauma Management (EVTM) for Blunt Innominate Artery Injury with Ongoing Extravasation

Innominate artery (IA) traumatic injuries are rare but life-threatening, with high mortality and morbidity. Open surgical repair is the treatment of choice but is technically demanding. We describe a case of blunt trauma to the IA with ongoing bleeding, treated successfully by combined (hybrid) endovascular and open surgery. The case demonstrates the immediate usage of modern endovascular and surgical tools as part of endovascular and hybrid trauma management.