Development of a simple algorithm to guide the effective management of traumatic cardiac arrest

Adherence to prehospital thoracostomy practice guidelines for traumatic cardiac arrest: A retrospective study

Objectives

The management of traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) focuses on the immediate treatment of reversible causes, including bilateral thoracostomy. In our prehospital emergency service, bilateral thoracostomy has been recommended since 2012 for the management of TCA. We sought to analyse the prehospital management and clinical course of patients with TCA, focusing on changes over time in the use of thoracostomy.

Methods

In this single-centre retrospective observational study, we included patients with TCA managed by physicians of the prehospital service of Lausanne University Hospital from 2012 to 2024. The primary outcome was the annual rate of bilateral thoracostomy. Secondary outcomes included the rate of additional on-site measures, such as pelvic binder placement and airway management, and follow-up at 48 h.

Results

Among 3206 cardiac arrests during the study period, 473 (15%) were TCAs. Among the 247 patients with resuscitation attempts, thoracostomy was judged as indicated in 223 (90%) and performed in 148 (66%). Twenty-seven (18%) patients who had a thoracostomy were alive on arrival at hospital, with 9 (6.1%) still alive at 48 h. The mean annual proportion of patients in whom a thoracostomy was performed was 68% (range 0-100%) and increased significantly over the years (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The annual rate of thoracostomy in TCA patients increased significantly in the period 2012 to 2024. Larger studies are required to determine the impact of thoracostomy on survival.

Adrenaline for traumatic cardiac arrest: A post hoc analysis of the PARAMEDIC2 trial

Introduction

There is controversy about the effectiveness of adrenaline in traumatic cardiac arrest. This study reports the patient characteristics and outcomes of adults with trauma-related out of hospital cardiac arrest treated with adrenaline or placebo.

Methods

This post-hoc, sub-group analysis of the Pre-hospital Randomised Assessment of Adrenaline in Cardiac Arrest-2 (PARAMEDIC-2) trial explored the effect of adrenaline on survival to hospital admission, longer-term survival and neurological outcomes amongst adults with trauma related out of hospital cardiac arrest. Individual patients were randomised through opening a single treatment pack which contained either 10 doses of 1 mg adrenaline or 0.9% saline placebo. Treating clinicians, investigators, outcome assessors and patients were blinded to treatment allocation. The primary outcome was survival to 30 days post cardiac arrest.

Results

123 of 8,014 enrolled patients (1.5%) sustained a traumatic cardiac arrest (66 in the adrenaline arm and 57 in the placebo arm). Three times as many patients were admitted to hospital alive in the adrenaline arm 16/66 (24.2%) compared to 5/56 (8.9%) in the placebo arm, unadjusted odds ratio 3.3 (95% confidence interval 1.1 to 9.6), p = 0.03; adjusted odd ratio 5.6 (95% CI 1.6 to 20.4), p = 0.009. A single patient, in the adrenaline arm, survived beyond 30 days (1/66 (1.5%) compared to 0/57 (0%)), who also experienced a favourable neurological outcome.

Conclusion

Adrenaline was associated with a trebling of the rate of survival to hospital admission. These data support the use of adrenaline in trauma related out of hospital cardiac arrest.

Registration

ISRCTN73485024.

Pre-hospital management of penetrating neck injuries: derivation of an algorithm through a National Modified Delphi

BACKGROUND

Timely and effective pre-hospital management of penetrating neck injuries (PNI) is critical to improve patient outcomes. Pre-hospital interventions in patients with PNI can be especially challenging due to the anatomical injury site coupled with a resource-limited environment. Nationally, in the United Kingdom, no consensus statement or expert agreed guidance exists on how to best manage PNI in the pre-hospital setting.

METHOD

We conducted a national modified e-Delphi study with subject matter experts (SMEs) from multiple professional specialities with experience in the management of PNI. Pre-identified SMEs were contacted and consented prior to participation allowing for a remotely conducted Delphi using REDCap and Microsoft Teams. In Round 1, statements drawn from the literature base were distributed to all SMEs. Round 2 comprised a facilitated and structured discussion of the statements and then an online survey provided final ratification in Round 3. Of the participating SMEs consensus was set a priori at 70%.

RESULTS

Of the 67 pre-identified SMEs, 28 participated, resulting in a response rate of 42%. From the first two rounds, 19 statements were derived with every statement achieving consensus in Round 3. Subsequently, an algorithm for the pre-hospital management of PNI was developed and agreed with SME consensus.

CONCLUSION

Curation of national consensus statements from SMEs aims to provide principles and guidance for PNI management in a complicated patient group where pre-hospital evidence is lacking. Multi-professional national consensus on the best approach to manage these injuries alongside a novel PNI management algorithm aims to optimise time critical care and by extension improve patient outcomes.

Prehospital endotracheal intubation for traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest and improved neurological outcomes

BACKGROUND

Patients with traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (t-OHCA) require on-scene airway management to maintain tissue oxygenation. However, the benefits of prehospital endotracheal intubation remain unclear, particularly regarding neurological outcomes. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the association between prehospital intubation and favourable neurological outcomes in patients with t-OHCA.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study used a Japanese nationwide trauma registry from 2019 to 2021. It included adult patients diagnosed with traumatic cardiac arrest on emergency medical service arrival. Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) scores, survival at discharge and presence of signs of life on hospital arrival were compared between patients with prehospital intubation and those with supraglottic airway or manual airway management. Inverse probability weighting with propensity scores was used to adjust for patient, injury, treatment and institutional characteristics, and the effects of intubation on outcomes averaged over baseline covariates were shown as marginal ORs.

RESULTS

A total of 1524 patients were included in this study, with 370 undergoing intubation before hospital arrival. Prehospital intubation was associated with favourable neurological outcomes at discharge (GOS≥4 in 5/362 (1.4%) vs 10/1129 (0.9%); marginal OR 1.99; 95% CI 1.12 to 3.53; p=0.021) and higher survival to discharge (25/370 (6.8%) vs 63/1154 (5.5%); marginal OR 1.43; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.90; p=0.012). However, no association with signs of life on hospital arrival was observed (65/341 (19.1%) vs 147/1026 (14.3%); marginal OR 1.09; 95% CI 0.89 to 1.34). Favourable outcomes were observed only in patients who underwent intubation with a severe chest injury (Abbreviated Injury Score ≥3) and with transportation time to hospital >15 min (OR 14.44 and 2.00; 95% CI 1.89 to 110.02 and 1.09 to 3.65, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

Prehospital intubation was associated with favourable neurological outcomes among adult patients with t-OHCA who had severe chest injury or transportation time >15 min.

Emergency reflex action drill for traumatic cardiac arrest in a simulated pre-hospital setting; a one-group pre-post intervention study

BACKGROUND

Emergency Reflex Action Drills (ERADs) are meant to decrease stress-associated cognitive demand in high urgency situations. The aim of this study was to develop and test an ERAD for witnessed traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA), an event in which potentially reversible causes need to be systematically addressed and treated in a short period of time. We hypothesize that this ERAD (the TCA-Drill) helps ground Emergency Medical Services (EMS) nurses in overcoming performance decline during this specific high-pressure situation.

METHODS

This was a prospective, experimental one-group pre-post intervention study. Ground EMS nurses participated in a session of four simulated scenarios, with an in-between educational session to teach the TCA-Drill. Scenarios were video recorded, after which adherence and time differences were analyzed. Self-confidence on clinical practice was measured before and after the scenarios.

RESULTS

Twelve ground EMS nurses participated in this study. Overall median time to address reversible causes of TCA decreased significantly using the TCA-Drill (132 vs. 110 s; p = 0.030) compared with the conventional ALS strategy. More specifically, participants adhering to the TCA-Drill showed a significantly lower time needed for hemorrhage control (58 vs. 37 s; p = 0.012). Eight of 12 (67 %) ground EMS nurses performed the ERAD without protocol deviations. Reported self-confidence significantly increased on 11 of the 13 surveyed items.

CONCLUSIONS

The use of an ERAD for TCA (the TCA-Drill) significantly reduces the time to address reversible causes for TCA without delaying chest compressions in a simulated environment and can be easily taught to ground EMS nurses and increases self-confidence.

IMPLICATIONS FOR CLINICAL PRACTICE

The use of an ERAD for TCA (the TCA-Drill can significantly reduce the time to address reversible causes for TCA without delaying chest compression. This drill can be easily taught to ground EMS nurses and increases their self-confidence in addressing TCA-patients.

Contemporary management of traumatic cardiac arrest and peri-arrest states: a narrative review

Trauma is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide across all age groups, with traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) presenting a significant economic and societal burden due to the loss of productive life years. Despite TCA's high mortality rate, recent evidence indicates that survival with good and moderate neurological recovery is possible. Successful resuscitation in TCA depends on the immediate and simultaneous treatment of reversible causes according to pre-established algorithms. The HOTT protocol, addressing hypovolaemia, oxygenation (hypoxia), tension pneumothorax, and cardiac tamponade, forms the foundation of TCA management. Advanced interventions, such as resuscitative thoracotomy and resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA), further enhance treatment. Contemporary approaches also consider metabolic factors (e.g. hyperkalaemia, calcium imbalances) and hemostatic resuscitation. This narrative review explores the advanced management of TCA and peri-arrest states, discussing the epidemiology and pathophysiology of peri-arrest and TCA. It integrates classic TCA management strategies with the latest evidence and practical applications.

Association between signs of life and survival in traumatic cardiac arrest patients: A nationwide, retrospective cohort study

Background

The clinical impact of signs of life (SOLs) in traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) remains to be elucidated. The aim of this study was to examine the association between SOLs and survival/neurological outcomes in TCA patients.

Methods

Retrospective data from the Japan Trauma Data Bank (2019-2021) was reviewed. TCA patients were assigned to one of two study groups based on the presence or absence of SOLs and compared. SOLs were defined as having at least one of following criteria: pulseless electrical activity >40 beats per minute, gasping, positive light reflex, or extremity/eye movement at hospital arrival. The primary outcome was survival at hospital discharge. The secondary outcome was favorable neurological status (Glasgow Outcome Scale score of 4 or 5) at hospital discharge.

Results

A total of 1,981 patients (114 with SOLs and 1,867 without SOLs) were included. Characteristics of patients were as follows: age (median age 60.0 years old [interquartile range: 41-80] years vs. 55.4 [38-75] years), gender (male: 76/114 (66.7%) vs. 1,207/1,867 (65.0%), blunt trauma (90/111 [81.1%] vs. 1,559/1,844 [84.5%]), Injury Severity Score (29.2 [22-41] vs. 27.9 [20-34]). Patients with SOLs showed higher survival (10/114 (8.8%) vs. 25/1,867 (1.3%), OR 1.96 [CI 1.20-2.72]) and higher favorable neurological outcomes (4/110 (3.5%) vs. 6/1,865 (0.3%), OR 2.42 [CI 1.14-3.70]) compared with patients without SOLs.

Conclusions

TCA patients with SOLs at hospital arrival showed higher survival and favorable neurological outcomes at hospital discharge compared with TCA patients without SOLs.

Modified Glucose-insulin-potassium Therapy for Hemorrhage-induced Traumatic Cardiac Arrest in Rabbits

OBJECTIVE

Resuscitation with whole blood is known to be better than that with saline in attaining the return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and improving the short-term survival rate for hemorrhage-induced traumatic cardiac arrest (HiTCA). However, the resuscitation with whole blood alone fails to address the pathophysiological abnormalities, including hyperglycemia, hyperkalemia and coagulopathy, after HiTCA. The present study aimed to determine whether the modified glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) therapy can ameliorate the above-mentioned pathophysiological abnormalities, enhance the ROSC, improve the function of key organs, and reduce the mortality after HiTCA.

METHODS

HiTCA was induced in rabbits (n=36) by controlled hemorrhage. Following arrest, the rabbits were randomly divided into three groups (n=12 each): group A (no resuscitation), group B (resuscitation with whole blood), and group C (resuscitation with whole blood plus GIK). The GIK therapy was administered based on the actual concentration of glucose and potassium. The ROSC rate and survival rate were obtained. Hemodynamical and biochemical changes were detected. Thromboelastography (TEG) was used to measure coagulation parameters, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to detect parameters related to inflammation, coagulation and the function of brain.

RESULTS

All animals in groups B and C attained ROSC. Two rabbits died 24-48 h after HiTCA in group B, while no rabbits died in group C. The GIK therapy significantly reduced the levels of blood glucose, potassium, and biological markers for inflammatory reaction, and improved the heart, kidney, liver and brain function in group C when compared to group B. Furthermore, the R values of TEG were significantly lower in group C than in group B, and the maximum amplitude of TEG was slightly lower in group B than in group C, with no significant difference found.

CONCLUSION

Resuscitation with whole blood and modified GIK therapy combined can ameliorate the pathophysiological disorders, including hyperglycemia, hyperkalemia and coagulopathy, and may improve the function of key organs after HiTCA.

The first hour of trauma reception is critical for patients with major thoracic trauma: A retrospective analysis from the TraumaRegister DGU

BACKGROUND

Up to 25% of trauma deaths are related to thoracic injuries.

OBJECTIVE

The primary goal was to analyse the incidence and time distribution of death in adult patients with major thoracic injuries. The secondary goal was to determine if potentially preventable deaths occurred within this time distribution and, if so, identify an associated therapeutic window.

DESIGN

Retrospective observational analysis.

SETTING

TraumaRegister DGU.

PATIENTS

Major thoracic injury was defined as an Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) 3 or greater. Patients with severe head injury (AIS ≥ 4) or injuries to other body regions with AIS being greater than the thoracic injury (AIS other >AIS thorax) were excluded to ensure that the most severe injury described was primarily thoracic related.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

Incidence and time distribution of mortality were considered the primary outcome measures. Patient and clinical characteristics and resuscitative interventions were analysed in relation to the time distribution of death.

RESULTS

Among adult major trauma cases with direct admission from the accident scene, 45% had thoracic injuries and overall mortality was 9.3%. In those with major thoracic trauma ( n  = 24 332) mortality was 5.9% ( n  = 1437). About 25% of these deaths occurred within the first hour after admission and 48% within the first day. No peak in late mortality was seen. The highest incidences of hypoxia and shock were seen in non-survivors with immediate death within 1 h and early death (1 to 6 h). These groups received the largest number of resuscitative interventions. Haemorrhage was the leading cause of death in these groups, whereas organ failure was the leading cause of death amongst those who survived the first 6 h after admission.

CONCLUSION

About half of adult major trauma cases had thoracic injuries. In non-survivors with primarily major thoracic trauma, most deaths occurred immediately (<1h) or within the first 6 h after injury. Further research should analyse if improvements in trauma resuscitation performed within this time frame will reduce preventable deaths.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The present study is reported within the publication guidelines of the TraumaRegister DGU® and registered as TR-DGU project ID 2020-022.

Outcomes of Pediatric Traumatic Cardiac Arrest: A 15-year Retrospective Study in a Tertiary Center in Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND/OBJECTIVE

Traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) is the cessation of cardiac pumping activity secondary to blunt or penetrating trauma. The aim of this study is to identify the outcomes of traumatic cardiac arrest in pediatric patients within the local community and report the causes and resuscitation management for the defined cases.

METHODS

This was a retrospectively conducted cohort study that took place in King Abdulaziz Medical City (KAMC) and King Abdullah Specialized Children Hospital (KASCH) from 2005 to 2021, Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The study population involved pediatric patients aged 14 years or less who were admitted to our Emergency Department (ED) and had a traumatic cardiac arrest in the ED.

RESULTS

There were 26,510 trauma patients, and only 56 were eligible for inclusion. More than half (60.71%, n= 34) of the patients were males. Patients aged four years or less constituted 51.79% (n= 29) of the included cases. The majority of patients were Saudis (89.29%, n= 50). The majority of the patients had cardiac arrest prior to ED admission (78.57%, n= 44). The majority (89.29%, n= 50) had a GCS of 3 at ED arrival. The most frequently observed first cardiac arrest rhythm was asystole, followed by pulseless electrical activity and ventricular fibrillation, accounting for 74.55%, 23.64%, and 1.82%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

Pediatric TCA is high acuity. Children who experience TCA have dreadful outcomes, and survivors can suffer serious neurological impairments. We provided the experience of one of the largest trauma centers in Saudi Arabia to standardize the approach for managing TCA and, hopefully, improve its outcomes.

Advanced interventions in the pre-hospital resuscitation of patients with non-compressible haemorrhage after penetrating injuries

Abstract

Early haemorrhage control and minimizing the time to definitive care have long been the cornerstones of therapy for patients exsanguinating from non-compressible haemorrhage (NCH) after penetrating injuries, as only basic treatment could be provided on scene. However, more recently, advanced on-scene treatments such as the transfusion of blood products, resuscitative thoracotomy (RT) and resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) have become available in a small number of pre-hospital critical care teams. Although these advanced techniques are included in the current traumatic cardiac arrest algorithm of the European Resuscitation Council (ERC), published in 2021, clear guidance on the practical application of these techniques in the pre-hospital setting is scarce. This paper provides a scoping review on how these advanced techniques can be incorporated into practice for the resuscitation of patients exsanguinating from NCH after penetrating injuries, based on available literature and the collective experience of several helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) across Europe who have introduced these advanced resuscitation interventions into routine practice.

Graphical Abstract

A Framework for Case-Based Learning in Prehospital Medicine: The London's Air Ambulance Experience

Clinical governance is the framework around which health care organizations can maintain a higher standard of safety and care. One of the central aspects of clinical governance is continuous professional education, including case-based review and case-based learning. In this article, we present the case-based education process in use at London's Air Ambulance, a mature advanced prehospital system in London, UK. The case review process begins with an on-scene hot debrief, an informal process often involving other emergency services. This is usually followed by internal team feedback and debrief and patient follow-up. All cases are then reviewed over the next 24 to 48 hours by the duty prehospital consultant (attending) in the rapid review process. After this, certain cases are volunteered or selected for discussion in the twice weekly death and disability (D&D) meeting or the monthly dispatch meeting. A small subset of cases is highlighted through this process for full formal audit and presentation at the monthly clinical governance meetings based on their educational value. Another subset of cases involving a fatality is also discussed at the monthly clinical pathology correlation meeting with the input of local forensic pathologists. Organization of the process, structure of the meetings, and educational value are described in detail.

Management of penetrating chest trauma in the context of major trauma networks

Major trauma networks reduce mortality in critically injured patients. Trauma patients should be appropriately triaged straight from the scene of injury, avoiding secondary transfer from a trauma unit. Selection criteria in regionally agreed triage tools are designed to identify which patients should be taken directly to the major trauma centre. Patients with life-threatening injuries still arrive at 'trauma units' in circumstances such as self-presentation, under triage, physiological instability or long journey time to the major trauma centre. This article presents a theoretical case of a haemodynamically unstable patient with penetrating injuries, and discusses the management of chest trauma, including diagnosis of life-threatening injuries, resuscitation strategies and definitive surgical management. Secondary transfer to the major trauma centre should be considered after instituting the minimal life-saving interventions. What constitutes a life-saving intervention requires an individual dynamic risk assessment and an understanding of major trauma networks.

Outcome of post-traumatic acute respiratory distress syndrome in young patients requiring extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO)

We aimed to evaluate the outcomes of post-traumatic acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) in young patients with and without Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support. A retrospective analysis was conducted for trauma patients who developed ARDS at a level I trauma facility between 2014 and 2020. Data were analyzed and compared between ECMO and non-ECMO group. We identified 85 patients with ARDS (22 patients had ECMO support and 63 matched patients managed by the conventional mechanical ventilation; 1:3 matching ratio). The two groups were comparable for age, sex, injury severity score, abbreviated injury score, shock index, SOFA score, and head injury. Kaplan Meier survival analysis showed that the survival in the ECMO group was initially close to that of the non-ECMO, however, during follow-up, the survival rate was better in the ECMO group, but did not reach statistical significance (Log-rank, p = 0.43 and Tarone-Ware, p = 0.37). Multivariable logistic regression analysis showed that acute kidney injury (AKI) (Odds ratio 13.03; 95% CI 3.17–53.54) and brain edema (Odds ratio 4.80; 95% CI 1.10–21.03) were independent predictors of mortality. Sub-analysis showed that in patients with severe Murray Lung Injury (MLI) scores, non-ECMO group had higher mortality than the ECMO group (100% vs 36.8%, p = 0.004). Although ARDS is uncommon in young trauma patients, it has a high mortality. ECMO therapy was used in a quarter of ARDS cases. AKI and brain edema were the predictors of mortality among ARDS patients. ECMO use did not worsen the outcome in trauma patients; however, the survival was better in those who had severe MLI and ECMO support. Further prospective study is needed to define the appropriate selection criteria for the use of ECMO to optimize the outcomes in trauma patients.

Association between Timing of Epinephrine Administration and Outcomes of Traumatic Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest following Traffic Collisions

The effects of epinephrine administration timing on patients with out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) following traffic collisions are unknown. We analyzed the 2013-2019 All-Japan Utstein Registry data of 2024 such patients aged ≥18 years who were resuscitated by emergency medical service (EMS) personnel or bystanders and then transported to medical institutions. Time from 119 call to epinephrine administration was classified into quartiles: Q1 (6-21 min), Q2 (22-26 min), Q3 (27-34 min), and Q4 (35-60 min). Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to assess the effects of epinephrine administration timing on one-month survival after OHCA. Overall, the one-month survival rates were 3.2% (15/466) in Q1, 1.1% (5/472) in Q2, 1.9% (11/577) in Q3, and 0.2% (1/509) in Q4. Additionally, the one-month survival rate decreased significantly in the Q4 group (adjusted odds ratio, 0.07; 95% confidence interval, 0.01-0.57) compared with the Q1 group, and the probability of one-month survival decreased as the time from the EMS call to epinephrine administration increased (p-value for trend = 0.009). Only four patients (0.9% [4/466]) with the earliest epinephrine administration showed a good neurological outcome.

Whole Blood Selective Aortic Arch Perfusion for Exsanguination Cardiac Arrest: Assessing Myocardial Tolerance to the Duration of Cardiac Arrest

INTRODUCTION

Selective aortic arch perfusion (SAAP) is an endovascular technique that consists of aortic occlusion with perfusion of the coronary and cerebral circulation. It been shown to facilitate return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after exanguination cardiac arrest (ECA), but it is not known how long arrest may last before the myocardium can no longer be durably recovered. The aim of this study is to assess the myocardial tolerance to exsanguination cardiac arrest before successful ROSC with SAAP.

METHODS

Male adult swine (n = 24) were anesthetized, instrumented, and hemorrhaged to arrest. Animals were randomized into three groups: 5, 10, and 15 min of cardiac arrest before resuscitation with SAAP. Following ROSC, animals were observed for 60 min in a critical care environment. Primary outcomes were ROSC, and survival at 1-h post-ROSC.

RESULTS

Shorter cardiac arrest time was associated with higher ROSC rate and better 1-h survival. ROSC was obtained for 100% (8/8) of the 5-min ECA group, 75% (6/8) of the 10-min group, 43% (3/7) of the 15-min group (P = 0.04). One-hour post-ROSC survival was 75%, 50%, and 14% in 5-, 10-, and 15-min groups, respectively (P = 0.02). One-hour survivors in the 5-min group required less norepinephrine (1.31 mg ± 0.83 mg) compared with 10-SAAP (0.76 mg ± 0.24 mg), P = 0.008.

CONCLUSION

Whole blood SAAP can accomplish ROSC at high rates even after 10 min of unsupported cardiac arrest secondary to hemorrhage, with some viability beyond to 15 min. This is promising as a tool for ECA, but requires additional optimization and clinical trials.Animal Use Protocol, IACUC: 0919015.

Algorithm to Improve Resuscitation Outcomes in Patients With Traumatic Out-of-Hospital Cardiac Arrest

Background: This study proposed an algorithm to improve resuscitation outcomes in the emergency department (ED) for patients with traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (TOHCA). We also performed a retrospective chart review of patient outcomes before and after implementing the algorithm and sought to define factors that might influence patient outcomes.

Methods: In September 2018, we implemented an algorithm for patients with TOHCA. This algorithm rapidly identifies possible causes of TOHCA and recommends appropriate interventions. We retrospectively reviewed the outcomes of all patients with TOHCA during a five-year period (comprising periods before and after the algorithm) and compared the results before and after the implementation of the algorithm.

Results: After this algorithm was implemented, the use of the ED interventions of blood transfusion, placement of a large-bore central venous catheter, and thoracostomy increased significantly. The rate of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) also increased (before vs. after: ROSC: 23.6% vs. 41.5%, P = 0.035). Regarding hospital admission and survival to hospital discharge, we observed the trend of increment (hospital admission: 18.2% vs. 24.6%, P = 0.394; survival to hospital discharge: 0.0% vs. 4.6%, P = 0.107). Admitted patients exhibited a higher end-tidal CO₂ level during resuscitation than nonadmitted patients [admitted vs. nonadmitted: 41.5 (33.3-52.0) vs. 12.0 (7.5-18.8), P = 0.001].

Conclusion: Our algorithm prioritizes the three major treatable causes of TOHCA: impedance of venous return, hypovolemia, and hypoxia. We found that rate of ROSC increased with the increasing implementation of the ED interventions recommended by the algorithm.

External Aortic Compression in Noncompressible Truncal Hemorrhage and Traumatic Cardiac Arrest: A Scoping Review

External aortic compression has been investigated as a treatment for non-compressible truncal haemorrhage in trauma patients. We sought to systematically gather and tabulate the available evidence around external aortic compression. We were specifically interested in its ability to achieve hemostasis and aid in resuscitation of traumatic arrest and severe shock and to consider physiological changes and adverse effects. A scoping review approach was chosen due to the highly variable existing literature. We were guided by the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses, using the specific extension for scoping reviews. Searches were done on PubMed and Scopus databases in October 2020. We found that a range of studies have investigated external aortic compression in a variety of settings, including case reports and small case series, porcine hemorrhage models and effects on healthy volunteers. External aortic compression for postpartum hemorrhage in a single center provided some evidence of effectiveness. Overall the level of evidence is limited, however, external aortic compression does appear able to achieve cessation of distal blood flow. Furthermore, it appears to improve many relevant physiological parameters in the setting of hypovolemic shock. Application for more than 60 minutes appears to cause increasingly problematic complications. In conclusion we find that the role of external aortic compression warrants further research. The intervention may have a role as a bridge to definitive treatment of noncompressible truncal haemorrahge.

Impact of Specific Emergency Measures on Survival in Out-of-Hospital Traumatic Cardiac Arrest

INTRODUCTION

The management of out-of-hospital traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) for professional rescuers entails Advanced Life Support (ALS) with specific actions to treat the potential reversible causes of the arrest: hypovolemia, hypoxemia, tension pneumothorax (TPx), and tamponade. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of specific rescue measures on short-term outcomes in the context of resuscitating patients with a TCA.

METHODS

This retrospective study concerns all TCA patients treated in two emergency medical units, which are part of the Northern French Alps Emergency Network (RENAU), from January 2004 through December 2017. Utstein variables and specific rescue measures in TCA were compiled: fluid expansion, pelvic stabilization, tourniquet application, bilateral thoracostomy, and thoracotomy procedures. The primary endpoint was survival rate at Day 30 with good neurological status (Cerebral Performance Category [CPC] score CPC 1 and CPC 2).

RESULTS

In total, 287 resuscitation attempts in TCA were included and 279 specific interventions were identified: 262 fluid expansions, 41 pelvic stabilizations, five tourniquets, and 175 bilateral thoracostomies (including 44 with TPx).

CONCLUSION

Among the standard resuscitation measures to treat the reversible causes of cardiac arrest, this study found that bilateral thoracostomy and tourniquet application on a limb hemorrhage improve survival in TCA. A larger sample for pelvic stabilization is needed.

Predicting outcomes after trauma: Prognostic model development based on admission features through machine learning

In an overcrowded emergency department (ED), trauma surgeons and emergency physicians need an accurate prognostic predictor for critical decision-making involving patients with severe trauma. We aimed to develope a machine learning-based early prognostic model based on admission features and initial ED management.We only recruited patients with severe trauma (defined as an injury severity score >15) as the study cohort and excluded children (defined as patients <16 years old) from a 4-years database (Chi-Mei Medical Center, from January 2015, to December 2018) recording the clinical features of all admitted trauma patients. We considered only patient features that could be determined within the first 2 hours after arrival to the ED. These variables included Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score; heart rate; respiratory rate; mean arterial pressure (MAP); prehospital cardiac arrest; abbreviated injury scales (AIS) of head and neck, thorax, and abdomen; and ED interventions (tracheal intubation/tracheostomy, blood product transfusion, thoracostomy, and cardiopulmonary resuscitation). The endpoint for prognostic analyses was mortality within 7 days of admission.We divided the study cohort into the early death group (149 patients who died within 7 days of admission) and non-early death group (2083 patients who survived at >7 days of admission). The extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost) machine learning model provided mortality prediction with higher accuracy (94.0%), higher sensitivity (98.0%), moderate specificity (54.8%), higher positive predict value (PPV) (95.4%), and moderate negative predictive value (NPV) (74.2%).We developed a machine learning-based prognostic model that showed high accuracy, high sensitivity, and high PPV for predicting the mortality of patients with severe trauma.

Preparation of hospitals for mass casualty incidents in Bavaria, Germany: care capacities for penetrating injuries and explosions in TerrorMASCALs

Background

In a terror attack mass casualty incident (TerrorMASCAL), compared to a “normal” MASCAL, there is a dynamic course that can extend over several hours. The injury patterns are penetrating and perforating injuries. This article addresses the provision of material and personnel for the care of special injuries of severely injured persons that may occur in the context of a TerrorMASCAL.

Methods

To answer the research question about the preparation of hospitals for the care of severely injured persons in a TerrorMASCAL, a survey of trauma surgery departments in Bavaria (Germany) was conducted using a questionnaire, which was prepared in three defined steps based on an expert consensus. The survey is divided into a general, neurosurgical, thoracic, vascular and trauma surgery section. In the specialized sections, the questions relate to the implementation of and material and personnel requirements for special interventions that are required, particularly for injury patterns following gunshot and explosion injuries, such as trepanation, thoracotomy and balloon occlusion of the aorta.

Results

In the general section, it was noted that only a few clinics have an automated system to notify off-duty staff. When evaluating the data from the neurosurgical section, the following could be established with regard to the performance of trepanation: the regional trauma centers do not perform trepanation but nevertheless have the required material and personnel available. A similar result was recorded for local trauma centers. In the thoracic surgery section, it could be determined that almost all trauma centers that do not perform thoracotomy have the required material available. This group of trauma centers also stated that they have staff who can perform thoracotomy independently. The retrograde endovascular aortic occlusion procedure is possible in 88% of supraregional, 64% of regional and 10% of local trauma centers. Pelvic clamps and external fixators are available at all trauma centers.

Conclusion

The results of the survey show potential for optimization both in the area of framework conditions and in the care of patients. Consistent and specific training measures, for example, could improve the nationwide performance of these special interventions. Likewise, it must be discussed whether the abovementioned special procedures should be reserved for higher-level trauma centers.

Survival outcomes in emergency medical services witnessed traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest after the introduction of a trauma-based resuscitation protocol

AIM

In this study, we examine the impact of a trauma-based resuscitation protocol on survival outcomes following emergency medical services (EMS) witnessed traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA).

METHODS

We included EMS-witnessed OHCAs arising from trauma and occurring between 2008 and 2019. In December 2016, a new resuscitation protocol for traumatic OHCA was introduced prioritising the treatment of potentially reversible causes before conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation. The effect of the new protocol on survival outcomes was assessed using adjusted multivariable logistic regression models.

RESULTS

Paramedics attempted resuscitation on 490 patients, with 341 (69.6%) and 149 (30.4%) occurring during the control and intervention periods, respectively. A reduction in the proportion of cases receiving cardiopulmonary resuscitation and epinephrine administration were found in the intervention period compared to the control period, whereas trauma-based interventions increased significantly, including blood administration (pre-arrest: 17.9% vs 3.7%; intra-arrest: 24.1% vs 2.7%), splinting (pre-arrest: 38.6% vs 17.1%; intra-arrest: 20.7% vs 5.2%), and finger thoracostomy (pre-arrest: 13.1% vs 0.6%; intra-arrest: 22.8% vs 0.9%), respectively, with p-values < 0.001 for all comparisons. After adjustment, the trauma-based resuscitation protocol was not associated with an improvement in survival to hospital discharge (AOR 1.29, 95% CI: 0.51-3.23), event survival (AOR 0.72, 95% CI: 0.41-1.28) or prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (AOR 0.63, 95% CI: 0.39-1.03).

CONCLUSION

In our region, the introduction of a trauma-based resuscitation protocol led to an increase in the delivery of almost all trauma interventions; however, this did not translate into better survival outcomes following EMS-witnessed traumatic OHCA.

Basic life support training in schools

Older children and adolescents are able to learn and perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation maneuvers in a satisfactory manner. Schools are places where training in basic life support can be carried out. This narrative review was carried out to assess the effectiveness of training in basic life support in schools, analyzing different learning methodology, age groups, and gaining confidence in performing cardiopulmonary resuscitation in a real situation. The search was conducted in the MEDLINE database. Articles published from 01/01/2014 to 12/31/2019, with children under 18 years of age, published in English, Portuguese and Spanish, were selected. Three hundred and nine articles were found, of which 15 met the inclusion criteria in the study. There was great heterogeneity in the methodologies evaluated, making it difficult to compare some studies. Cardiopulmonary resuscitation taught to school children has resulted in the retention of skills and knowledge. There was a direct relationship between age group and quality of cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Learning cardiopulmonary resuscitation can also change the stigma and fear associated with procedures. We conclude that the teaching of cardiopulmonary resuscitation by different methodologies is effective in the learning of children and adolescents and improves their confidence in doing it. Although older than 12 years of age have a greater ability for depth of compression, other points of basic life support can be developed in younger children.

[Emergency thoracotomy in a severely injured patient after hemorrhagic shock in traumatic pelvic bleeding : Case report]

A case of in-hospital thoracotomy with subsequent open chest cardiopulmonary resuscitation of a polytraumatized patient is reported. Emergency thoracotomies are rare interventions in challenging situations. Up to now there are only few standards or uniform education and training concepts. The indications are often a borderline decision. The aim of thoracotomy and open resuscitation in combination with a reduction in circulation, for example by cross-clamping the aorta, is to save time to address reversible causes of the hemorrhage, redirect the blood volume into the vital cerebral and coronary circulation and minimize bleeding from subdiaphragmatic bleeding sources. Ultimately, in case of doubt, the thoracotomy can be performed for the patient's benefit with the appropriate indications.

Acting on the potentially reversible causes of traumatic cardiac arrest: Possible but not sufficient

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) guidelines emphasize specific actions that aim to treat the potential reversible causes of the arrest. The aim of this study was to measure the impact of these recommendations on specific rescue measures carried out in the field, and their influence on short-term outcomes in the resuscitation of TCA patients.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective study of all TCA patients treated in two emergency medical units, which are part of the Northern Alps Emergency Network, from January 2004 to December 2017. We categorised cases into three periods: pre-guidelines (from January 2004 to December 2007), during guidelines (from January 2008 to December 2011), and post-guidelines (from January 2012 to December 2017). Local guidelines, a physician education programme, and specific training were set up during the post-guidelines period to increase adherence to recommendations. Utstein variables, and specific rescue measures were collected: advanced airway management, fluid administration, pelvic stabilisation or tourniquet application, bilateral thoracostomy, and thoracotomy procedures. The primary endpoint was survival rate at day 30 with good neurological status (cerebral performance category scores 1 & 2) in each period, considering the pre-guidelines period as the reference.

RESULTS

There were 287 resuscitation attempts in the TCA cases included, and 279 specific interventions were identified with a significant increase in the number of fluid expansions (+16%), bilateral thoracostomies (+75%), and pelvic stabilisations (+25%) from the pre- to post-guidelines periods. However, no improvement in survival over time was found.

CONCLUSION

Reversible measures were applied but to a varying degree, and may not adequately capture pre-hospital performance on overall TCA survival.

Survival Following Lay Resuscitation

BACKGROUND

Resuscitation by laypersons is important in bridging the time between the occurrence of an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) and the arrival of emergency rescue service personnel. Depending on the reason for the cardiac arrest, however, the effectiveness of chest compressions is uncertain. The aim of this study was to explore the impact of lay resuscitation on survival following OHCA of different causes.

METHODS

The data set for analysis comprised all cases of cardiac arrest before the arrival of emergency rescue service personnel that were fully documented in the German Resuscitation Registry in the period 2007-2019. The following endpoints related to resuscitation by bystanders were evaluated-separately for each cause-descriptively and by means of multivariate logistic regression analysis: return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), 30 days' survival/discharged alive from the hospital, and good neurological function at discharge.

RESULTS

Altogether, 40 604 cases of cardiac arrest were included. Resuscitation by laypersons was carried out in 35.1% of these cases. The rate of ROSC was statistically significantly higher after lay resuscitation for OHCA caused by cardiac events, drowning, intoxication, or central nervous system disorders (overall 48.1% versus 41.0%). For all causes-with the exception of trauma/bleeding to death and sepsis- the endpoint 30 days' survival/discharged alive was better with lay resuscitation (overall 17.0% versus 9.5%). In multivariate regression analysis, lay resuscitation was associated with improvement of the endpoint 30 days' survival/discharged alive only for OHCA caused by cardiac events (odds ratio [OR] 1.16) or intoxication (OR 1.81). For all other causes-except hypoxia-lay resuscitation tended to yield better results. Neurological function at discharge was also significantly better (overall 11.5% versus 6.1%) after lay resuscitation for OHCA of all causes except trauma/ bleeding to death, hypoxia, and sepsis.

CONCLUSION

Resuscitation by laypersons is associated with an improved result regarding the endpoint 30 days' survival/discharged alive in cases of OHCA caused by cardiac events and intoxication. These two groups account for 81% of the resuscitation patients in the study. Because there was also a tendency towards higher survival rates following OHCA of other causes (except hypoxia), laypersons should continue to be encouraged to attempt resuscitation in all cases of OHCA, whatever the cause.

Surviving traumatic cardiac arrest: Identification of factors associated with survival

INTRODUCTION

The endpoint of resuscitative interventions after traumatic injury resulting in cardiopulmonary arrest varies across institutions and even among providers. The purpose of this study was to examine survival characteristics in patients suffering torso trauma with no recorded vital signs (VS) in the emergency department (ED).

METHODS

The National Trauma Data Bank was analyzed from 2007 to 2015. Inclusion criteria were patients with blunt and penetrating torso trauma without VS in the ED. Patients with head injuries, transfers from other hospitals, or those with missing values were excluded. The characteristics of survivors were evaluated, and statistical analyses performed.

RESULTS

A total of 24,191 torso trauma patients without VS were evaluated in the ED and 96.6% were declared dead upon arrival. There were 246 survivors (1%), and 73 (0.3%) were eventually discharged home. Of patients who responded to resuscitation (812), the survival rate was 30.3%. Injury severity score (ISS), penetrating mechanism (odds ratio [OR] 1.99), definitive chest (OR 1.59) and abdominal surgery (OR 1.49) were associated with improved survival. Discharge to home (or police custody) was associated with lower ISS (OR 0.975) and shorter ED time (OR 0.99).

CONCLUSION

Over a recent nine-year period in the United States, nearly 25,000 trauma patients were treated at trauma centers despite lack of VS. Of these patients, only 73 were discharged home. A trauma center would have to attempt over one hundred resuscitations of traumatic arrests to save one patient, confirming previous reports that highlight a grave prognosis. This creates a dilemma in treatment for front line workers and physicians with resource utilization and consideration of safety of exposure, particularly in the face of COVID-19.

Injury-related deaths in the Ontario provincial trauma system: a retrospective population-based cohort analysis

BACKGROUND

Although Ontario has an established trauma system, it experiences a substantial burden of morbidity and mortality from injury. Our objective was to describe patterns of fatal injury in Ontario, with a focus on location of death (out of hospital, trauma or non-trauma centre) and receipt of surgical intervention before death.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective population-based cohort study using linked administrative data on fatal injuries in children and adults (no age restrictions) in Ontario between 2000 and 2016. We identified injury-related deaths in the Ontario Registrar General Death database. We developed descriptive statistics for injury characteristics and causes of death. We calculated the fatal injury incidence rate for each year of the study. The primary outcome was cause of death; the secondary outcome was receipt of surgical intervention.

RESULTS

The analysis included 19 408 people. The mean annual incidence of fatal injury averaged 8.7 (95% confidence interval 7.7-9.6) per 100 000. The most common mechanisms of injury were motor vehicle collisions (12 065, 62.2%), followed by gunshot wounds (3134, 16.1%) and falls (2387, 12.3%). Deaths frequently occurred out of hospital (72.6%), rather than at a trauma centre (14.2%) or non-trauma centre (13.2%). Patients treated at trauma centres were significantly more likely to receive a surgical intervention (standardized difference 0.6) than those treated at non-trauma centres.

INTERPRETATION

Most injury deaths in Ontario occur in the out-of-hospital setting or are managed at non-trauma centres; many patients receive no surgical intervention before death. There are likely opportunities to improve access to specialized injury care in Ontario's trauma system.

Impact of temporal changes in the epidemiology and management of traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest on survival outcomes

AIM

We aimed to investigate the impact of temporal changes in the epidemiology and management of traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) on emergency medical service (EMS) attempted resuscitations and survival outcomes.

METHODS

A retrospective observational study of traumatic OHCA cases involving patients aged > 16 years in Victoria, Australia, who arrested between 2001 and 2018. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression was performed to assess trends in survival outcomes over the study period.

RESULTS

Between 2001 and 2018, the EMS attended 5,631 cases of traumatic OHCA, of which 1,237 cases (22.0%) received an attempted resuscitation. EMS response times increased significantly over time (from 7.0 min in 2001-03 to 9.8 min in 2016-18; p trend < 0.001) as did rates of bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (from 37.8% to 63.6%; p trend < 0.001). Helicopter EMS attendance on scene increased from 7.1% to 12.4% (p trend = 0.01), and transports of patients with return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) to designated major trauma centres also increased from 36.6% to 82.4% (p trend < 0.001). The frequency of EMS trauma-specific interventions increased over the study period, including needle thoracostomy from 7.7% to 61.6% (p trend < 0.001). Although the risk-adjusted odds of ROSC (OR 1.06, 95% CI: 1.03-1.10) and event survival (OR 1.05, 95% CI: 1.01-1.09) increased year-on-year, there were no temporal changes in survival to hospital discharge.

CONCLUSION

Despite higher rates of bystander CPR and EMS trauma interventions, rates of survival following traumatic OHCA did not change over time in our region. More studies are needed to investigate the optimal EMS interventions for improved survival in traumatic OHCA.

First experience with the abdominal aortic and junctional tourniquet in prehospital traumatic cardiac arrest

INTRODUCTION

The Abdominal Aortic and Junctional Tourniquet (AAJT) increased systemic vascular resistance, mean arterial pressure, carotid blood flow and rate of return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) in animals with hypovolaemic traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA). The objective of this study was to report the first experience of the use of the AAJT as part of a pre-hospital TCA algorithm.

METHODS

This is a descriptive case series of the use of the AAJT in patients with TCA in a civilian physician-led pre-hospital trauma service in Sydney, Australia between June 2015 to August 2019. Cases were identified and data sourced from routinely collected data sets within the retrieval service.

RESULTS

During the study, 44 TCAs were attended, 22 with AAJT application. Mean time (standard deviation) to AAJT application since last signs of life was 16 (9) min. Eighteen (16 males, 2 females) patients, with median age (interquartile range) of 40 (25-58) years, were included for analysis. Seventeen patients (94%) had blunt trauma. Sixteen patients (89%) were in TCA at the time of service contact, 11 (61%) had a change in electrical activity, 4 (22%) had ROSC, and of the 6 with documented end-tidal carbon dioxide, the mean rise was 24.0 mmHg (95% CI 12.6-35.4) (P = 0.003). Three patients (17%) had sustained ROSC on arrival to the Emergency Department. No patients survived to hospital discharge.

CONCLUSION

Physiological changes were demonstrated but there were no survivors. Further research focusing on faster application times may be associated with improved outcomes.

Prospective Randomized Trial of Standard Left Anterolateral Thoracotomy Versus Modified Bilateral Clamshell Thoracotomy Performed by Emergency Physicians

STUDY OBJECTIVE

Resuscitative thoracotomy is a time-sensitive, lifesaving procedure that may be performed by emergency physicians. The left anterolateral thoracotomy (LAT) is the standard technique commonly used in the United States to gain rapid access to critical intrathoracic structures. However, the smaller incision and subsequent limited exposure may not be optimal for the nonsurgical specialist to complete time-sensitive interventions. The modified bilateral anterior clamshell thoracotomy (MCT) developed by Barts Health NHS Trust clinicians at London's Air Ambulance overcomes these inherent difficulties, maximizes thoracic cavity visualization, and may be the ideal technique for the nonsurgical specialist. The aim of this study is to identify the optimal technique for the nonsurgical-specialist-performed resuscitative thoracotomy. Secondary aims of the study are to identify technical difficulties, procedural concerns, and physician preferences.

METHODS

Emergency medicine staff and senior resident physicians were recruited from an academic Level I trauma center. Subjects underwent novel standardized didactic and skills-specific training on both the MCT and LAT techniques. Later, subjects were randomized to the order of intervention and performed both techniques on separate fresh, nonfrozen human cadaver specimens. Success was determined by a board-certified surgeon and defined as complete delivery of the heart from the pericardial sac and subsequent 100% occlusion of the descending thoracic aorta with a vascular clamp. The primary outcome was time to successful completion of the resuscitative thoracotomy technique. Secondary outcomes included successful exposure of the heart, successful descending thoracic aortic cross clamping, successful procedural completion, time to exposure of the heart, time to descending thoracic aortic cross-clamp placement, number and type of iatrogenic injuries, correct anatomic structure identification, and poststudy participant questionnaire.

RESULTS

Sixteen emergency physicians were recruited; 15 met inclusion criteria. All participants were either emergency medicine resident (47%) or emergency medicine staff (53%). The median number of previously performed training LATs was 12 (interquartile range 6 to 15) and the median number of previously performed MCTs was 1 (interquartile range 1 to 1). The success rates of our study population for the MCT and LAT techniques were not statistically different (67% versus 40%; difference 27%; 95% confidence interval -61% to 8%). However, staff emergency physicians were significantly more successful with the MCT compared with the LAT (88% versus 25%; difference 63%; 95% CI 9% to 92%). Overall, the MCT also had a significantly higher proportion of injury-free trials compared with the LAT technique (33% versus 0%; difference 33%; 95% CI 57% to 9%). Physician procedure preference favored the MCT over the LAT (87% versus 13%; difference 74%; 95% CI 23% to 97%).

CONCLUSION

Resuscitative thoracotomy success rates were lower than expected in this capable subject population. Success rates and procedural time for the MCT and LAT were similar. However, the MCT had a higher success rate when performed by staff emergency physicians, resulted in less periprocedural iatrogenic injuries, and was the preferred technique by most subjects. The MCT is a potentially feasible alternative resuscitative thoracotomy technique that requires further investigation.

Decision making in prehospital traumatic cardiac arrest; A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

Despite improving survival of patients in prehospital traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA), initiation and/or discontinuation of resuscitation of TCA patients remains a subject of debate among prehospital emergency medical service providers. The aim of this study was to identify factors that influence decision making by prehospital emergency medical service providers during resuscitation of patients with TCA.

METHODS

Twenty-five semi-structured interviews were conducted with experienced ambulance nurses, HEMS nurses and HEMS physicians individually, followed by a focus group discussion. Participants had to be currently active in prehospital medicine in the Netherlands. Interviews were encoded for analysis using ATLAS.ti. Using qualitative analysis, different themes around decision making in TCA were identified.

RESULTS

Eight themes were identified as being important factors for decision making during prehospital TCA. These themes were: (1) factual information (e.g., electrocardiography rhythm or trauma mechanism); (2) fear of providing futile care or major impairment if return of spontaneous circulation was obtained; (3) potential organ donation; (4) patient age; (5) suspicion of attempted suicide; (6) presence of bystanders or family; (7) opinions of other team members; and (8) training and education. Several ambulance nurses reported they do not feel adequately supported by the current official national ambulance guidelines on TCA, nor did they feel sufficiently trained to perform pre-hospital interventions such as endotracheal intubation or needle thoracocentesis on these patients.

CONCLUSION

Eight themes were identified as being important for decision making during prehospital TCA. While guidelines based on prognostic factors are important, it should be recognized that decision making in TCA is impacted by more than factual information alone. This should be reflected in educational programs and future guidelines.

Outcomes following resuscitative thoracotomy for abdominal exsanguination, a systematic review

Background

Resuscitative thoracotomy is a damage control procedure with an established role in the immediate treatment of patients in extremis or cardiac arrest secondary to cardiac tamponade however Its role in resuscitation of patients with abdominal exsanguination is uncertain.

Objective

The primary objective of this systematic review was to estimate mortality based on survival to discharge in patients with exsanguinating haemorrhage from abdominal trauma in cardiac arrest or a peri arrest clinical condition following a resuscitative thoracotomy.

Methods

A systematic literature search was performed to identify original research that reported outcomes in resuscitative thoracotomy either in the emergency department or pre-hospital environment in patients suffering or suspected of suffering from intra-abdominal injuries. The primary outcome was to assess survival to discharge. The secondary outcomes assessed were neurological function post procedure and the role of timing of intervention on survival.

Results

Seventeen retrospective case series were reviewed by a single author which described 584 patients with isolated abdominal trauma and an additional 1745 suffering from polytrauma including abdominal injuries. Isolated abdominal trauma survival to discharge ranged from 0 to 18% with polytrauma survival of 0–9.7% with the majority below 1%. Survival following a thoracotomy for abdominal trauma varied between studies and with no comparison non-intervention group no definitive conclusions could be drawn.

Timing of thoracotomy was important with improved mortality in patients not in cardiac arrest or having the procedure performed just after a loss of signs of life. Normal neurological function at discharge ranged from 100 to 28.5% with the presence of a head injury having a negative impact on both survival and long-term morbidity.

Conclusions

Pre-theatre thoracotomy may have a role in peri-arrest or arrested patient with abdominal trauma. The best outcomes are achieved with patients not in cardiac arrest or who have recently arrested and with no head injury present. The earlier the intervention can be performed, the better the outcome for patients, with survival figures of up to 18% following a resuscitative thoracotomy. More high-quality evidence is required to demonstrate a definitive mortality benefit for patients.

Association of Prehospital Epinephrine Administration With Survival Among Patients With Traumatic Cardiac Arrest Caused By Traffic Collisions

For traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA), the effect of prehospital epinephrine administration was unclear. The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between prehospital epinephrine administration and survival in patients with TCA caused by traffic collisions. We conducted a nationwide, prospective, population-based observational study involving patients who experienced out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) by using the All-Japan Utstein Registry. Blunt trauma patients with TCA who received prehospital epinephrine were compared with those who did not receive prehospital epinephrine. The primary outcome was 1-month survival of patients. The secondary outcome was prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). A total of 5,204 patients with TCA were analyzed. Of those, 758 patients (14.6%) received prehospital epinephrine (Epinephrine group), whereas the remaining 4,446 patients (85.4%) did not receive prehospital epinephrine (No epinephrine group). Eleven (1.5%) and 41 (0.9%) patients in the Epinephrine and No epinephrine groups, respectively, survived for 1 month. In addition, 74 (9.8%) and 40 (0.9%) patients achieved prehospital ROSC in the Epinephrine and No epinephrine groups, respectively. In multivariable logistic regression models, prehospital epinephrine administration was not associated with 1-month survival (odds ratio [OR] 1.495, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.758 to 2.946) and was associated with prehospital ROSC (OR 3.784, 95% CI 2.102 to 6.812). A propensity score-matched analysis showed similar results for 1-month survival (OR 2.363, 95% CI 0.606 to 9,223) and prehospital ROSC (OR 6.870, 95% CI 3.326 to 14.192). Prehospital epinephrine administration in patients with TCA was not associated with 1-month survival, but was beneficial in regard to prehospital ROSC.

Epidemiology and aetiology of paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest in England and Wales

OBJECTIVE

To describe the epidemiology and aetiology of paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) in England and Wales.

DESIGN

Population-based analysis of the UK Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN) database.

PATIENTS AND SETTING

All paediatric and adolescent patients with TCA recorded on the TARN database for a 10-year period (2006-2015).

MEASURES

Patient demographics, Injury Severity Score (ISS), location of TCA ('prehospital only', 'in-hospital only' or 'both'), interventions performed and outcome.

RESULTS

21 710 paediatric patients were included in the database; 129 (0.6%) sustained TCA meeting study inclusion criteria. The majority, 103 (79.8%), had a prehospital TCA. 62.8% were male, with a median age of 11.7 (3.4-16.6) years, and a median ISS of 34 (25-45). 110 (85.3%) had blunt injuries, with road-traffic collision the most common mechanism (n=73, 56.6%). 123 (95.3%) had severe haemorrhage and/or traumatic brain injury. Overall 30-day survival was 5.4% ((95% CI 2.6 to 10.8), n=7). 'Pre-hospital only' TCA was associated with significantly higher survival (n=6) than those with TCA in both 'pre-hospital and in-hospital' (n=1)-13.0% (95% CI 6.1% to 25.7%) and 1.2% (95% CI 0.1% to 6.4%), respectively, p<0.05. The greatest survival (n=6, 10.3% (95% CI 4.8% to 20.8%)) was observed in those transported to a paediatric major trauma centre (MTC) (defined as either a paediatric-only MTC or combined adult-paediatric MTC).

CONCLUSIONS

Survival is possible from the resuscitation of children in TCA, with overall survival comparable to that reported in adults. The highest survival was observed in those with a pre-hospital only TCA, and those who were transported to an MTC. Early identification and aggressive management of paediatric TCA is advocated.

Prehospital determinants of successful resuscitation after traumatic and non-traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest

Background

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is prevalent in the UK. Reported survival is lower than in countries with comparable healthcare systems; a better understanding of outcome determinants may identify areas for improvement.

Methods

An analysis of 9109 OHCA attended in East of England between 1 January 2015 and 31 July 2017. Univariate descriptives and multivariable analysis were used to understand the determinants of survival for non-traumatic cardiac arrest (NTCA) and traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA). Two Utstein outcome variables were used: survival to hospital admission and hospital discharge.

Results

The incidence of OHCA was 55.1 per 100 000 population/year. The overall survival to hospital admission was 27.6% (95% CI 26.7% to 28.6%) and the overall survival to discharge was 7.9% (95% CI 7.3% to 8.5%). Survival to hospital admission and survival to hospital discharge were both greater in the NTCA group compared with the TCA group: 27.9% vs 19.3% p=0.001, and 8.0% vs 3.8% p=0.012 respectively.

Determinants of NTCA and TCA survival were different, and varied according to the outcome examined. In NTCA, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) was associated with survival at discharge but not at admission, and the likelihood of bystander CPR was dependent on geographical socioeconomic status. An air ambulance was associated with increased survival to both hospital admission and discharge in NTCA, but only with survival to admission in TCA.

Conclusion

NTCA and TCA are clinically distinct entities with different predictors for outcome—future OHCA reports should aim to separate arrest aetiologies. Determinants of survival to hospital admission and discharge differ in a way that likely reflects the determinants of neurological injury. Bystander CPR public engagement may be best focused in more deprived areas.

Outcome after pre-hospital cardiac arrest in accordance with underlying cause

AIM

In terms of treatment options, the underlying cause of out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) has an impact on survival. This study aimed to examine the frequencies of different causes of OHCA and their outcomes using data from a national resuscitation registry.

METHODS

All pre-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitations (CPR) documented in the German Resuscitation Registry between 2007 and 2017 were retrospectively investigated with regard to cause of cardiac arrest, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), and hospital discharge rate with good neurological outcome. To avoid selection bias, only rescue services with a return rate in the form 'further clinical treatment' of >30% were included, this resulted in a total return rate of 84% of the included data.

RESULTS

In total, 33,772 patients were included. The most common causes of OHCA were cardiac events (62.2%), hypoxia (11.1%) and trauma (3.2%), in 17.2% no or unknown cause were documented. Overall, 44.8% of patients achieved ROSC, 13.1% of patients were discharged alive from hospital and 68.3% of these were in good neurological condition (9.0% of all patients). ROSC rates differed between 8.9% (sudden infant death syndrome) and 64.4% (intracranial bleeding), while discharge rates with good neurological outcome ranged between 0.9% (sepsis) and 14.0% (intoxication).

CONCLUSION

The most common causes of OHCA are cardiac events and hypoxia. Depending on the underlying cause, outcome after pre-hospital CPR varies widely with a survival rate with good neurological outcome ranging from 0.9 to 14%.

Pharmacokinetic effects of endotracheal, intraosseous, and intravenous epinephrine in a swine model of traumatic cardiac arrest

INTRODUCTION

Limited prospective data exist regarding epinephrine's controversial role in managing traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA). This study compared the maximum concentration (Cmax), time to maximum concentration (Tmax), plasma concentration over time, return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), time to ROSC, and odds of ROSC of epinephrine administered by the endotracheal (ETT), intraosseous (IO), and intravenous (IV) routes in a swine TCA model.

METHODS

Forty-nine Yorkshire-cross swine were assigned to seven groups: ETT, tibial IO (TIO), sternal IO (SIO), humeral IO (HIO), IV, CPR with defibrillation (CPRD), and CPR only. Swine were exsanguinated 31% of their blood volume and cardiac arrest induced. Chest compressions began 2 min post-arrest. At 4 min post-arrest, 1 mg epinephrine was administered, and blood specimens collected over 4 min. Resuscitation continued until ROSC or 30 min elapsed.

RESULTS

The Cmax of IV epinephrine was significantly higher than the TIO group (P = 0.049). No other differences in Cmax, Tmax, ROSC, and time to ROSC existed between the epinephrine groups (P > 0.05). Epinephrine levels were detectable in two of seven ETT swine. No significant difference in ROSC existed between the epinephrine groups and CPRD group (P > 0.05). Significant differences in ROSC existed between all groups and the CPR only group (P < 0.05). No significant differences in odds of ROSC were noted.

CONCLUSIONS

The pharmacokinetics of IV, HIO, and SIO epinephrine were comparable. Endotracheal epinephrine absorption was highly variable and unreliable compared to IV and IO epinephrine. Epinephrine appeared to have a lesser role than volume replacement in resuscitating TCA.

Out-of-hospital cardiac arrest following trauma: What does a helicopter emergency medical service offer?

INTRODUCTION

Helicopter emergency medical services (HEMS) are often dispatched to patients in traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) as they can provide treatments and advanced interventions in the pre-hospital environment that have the potential to contribute to an increased survival. This study, aimed to investigate the added value of HEMS in the treatment of TCA.

METHODS

We performed a retrospective cohort study of all patients with a pre-hospital TCA who were attended by a non-urban HEMS (Kent, Surrey and Sussex Air Ambulance trust) between July 1st 2013 and May 1st 2018. We investigated how many patients got return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) at scene, which HEMS specific advanced interventions were performed in these patients, and how these interventions were related to ROSC.

RESULTS

During the study period 263 patients with a TCA were attended by HEMS with an average response time of 30 min [range 13-109]. 51 patients (20%) regained ROSC at scene (28 before- and 23 after arrival of HEMS). The HEMS specific interventions of blood product administration (OR 8.54 [2.84-25.72]), and RSI (2.95 [1.32-6.58]) were positively associated with ROSC. Most patients who had a ROSC had one or more HEMS specific interventions being performed - RSI (n = 19, 37%), blood product administration (n = 32, 62%), thoracostomies (n = 36, 71%) and thoracotomy (n = 1, 2%). HEMS also delivered other important interventions to these patients as IV/IO access (n = 20, 39.2%) and endotracheal intubation without drugs (n = 9, 17.6%).

CONCLUSION

HEMS teams should be involved in the treatment of patients with a TCA, even in non-urban areas with prolonged response times, as they provide knowledge and skills that contribute to regaining and maintaining a sustained ROSC in this critically ill and injured cohort of patients.

Factors associated with outcomes in traumatic cardiac arrest patients without prehospital return of spontaneous circulation

BACKGROUND

Prognostic factors for the outcomes in traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) patients transported to hospitals without prehospital return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) remain uncertain. The aim of this study is to investigate factors associated with outcomes in TCA patients without prehospital ROSC.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a multi-institutional, 5-year database. Only TCA patients without prehospital ROSC were included. The primary outcome was ROSC in the emergency department (ED), and the secondary outcome was 30-day survival. Logistic regression analysis was performed to determine the factors associated with primary and secondary outcomes.

RESULTS

Among 463 TCA patients, 73 (16%) had ROSC during ED resuscitation, and among those with sustained ROSC, 10 (14%) survived for at least 30 days. Injury severity score ≧ 16 (OR, 0.06; 95% CI: 0.02-0.20), trauma center admission (OR, 2.69; 95% CI: 1.03-7.03), length of ED resuscitation (OR, 0.98; 95% CI: 0.96-0.99), and total resuscitation length > 20 min (OR, 0.21; 95% CI: 0.08-0.54) were associated with ROSC.

CONCLUSIONS

In TCA patients transported to hospitals without prehospital ROSC, resuscitation attempts could be beneficial. We should aim to resuscitate patients as soon as possible with appropriate treatments for trauma patients, early activation of trauma team, and then, as a result, shorter resuscitation time will be achieved.

Endotracheal Intubation for Traumatic Cardiac Arrest by an Australian Air Medical Service

OBJECTIVE

Traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) has been associated with poor outcome, but there are survivors with good neurological outcome. Treatment of hypoxia plays a key part in resuscitation algorithms, but little evidence exists on the ideal method of airway management in TCA.

METHODS

LifeFlight Retrieval Medicine is an aeromedical retrieval service based in Queensland, Australia. Data regarding all intubations performed over a 28-month period were accessed from an electronic airway registry.

RESULTS

13/22 TCA patients were male, age range 2-81 years. 7/22 (31.8%) survived to hospital admission. During the same period 271 patients were intubated due to trauma, but were not in cardiac arrest (N-TCA). There was no difference in the likelihood of difficult laryngoscopy in the TCA group (16/22 (72.7%) compared to N-TCA (215/271 (79.3%); p = 0.46). The first attempt success rate was similar in TCA group (19/22 (86.4%)) and N-TCA (241/271 (88.9%) p = 0.71.). TCA patients were more likely to be intubated while lying on the ground than the N-TCA group (11/22 (50%) versus 17/271 (6.3%) p = <0.001).

CONCLUSION

Resuscitation for predominantly blunt TCA is not futile. The endotracheal intubation first attempt success rate for TCA is comparable to that of N-TCA trauma patients.

Emergency medical dispatch recognition, clinical intervention and outcome of patients in traumatic cardiac arrest from major trauma: an observational study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study is to describe the demographics of reported traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) victims, prehospital resuscitation and survival to hospital rate.

SETTING

Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) in south-east England, covering a resident population of 4.5 million and a transient population of up to 8 million people.

PARTICIPANTS

Patients reported on the initial 999 call to be in suspected traumatic cardiac arrest between 1 July 2016 and 31 December 2016 within the trust's geographical region were identified. The inclusion criteria were all cases of reported TCA on receipt of the initial emergency call. Patients were subsequently excluded if a medical cause of cardiac arrest was suspected.

OUTCOME MEASURES

Patient records were analysed for actual presence of cardiac arrest, prehospital resuscitation procedures undertaken and for survival to hospital rates.

RESULTS

112 patients were reported to be in TCA on receipt of the 999/112 call. 51 (46%) were found not to be in TCA on arrival of emergency medical services. Of the 'not in TCA cohort', 34 (67%) received at least one advanced prehospital medical intervention (defined as emergency anaesthesia, thoracostomy, blood product transfusion or resuscitative thoracotomy). Of the 61 patients in actual TCA, 10 (16%) achieved return-of-spontaneous circulation. In 45 (88%) patients, the HEMS team escorted the patient to hospital.

CONCLUSION

A significant proportion of patients reported to be in TCA on receipt of the emergency call are not in actual cardiac arrest but are critically unwell requiring advanced prehospital medical intervention. Early activation of an enhanced care team to a reported TCA call allows appropriate advanced resuscitation. Further research is warranted to determine which interventions contribute to improved TCA survival.

Paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest: the development of an algorithm to guide recognition, management and decisions to terminate resuscitation

INTRODUCTION

Paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) is a high acuity, low frequency event. Traditionally, survival from TCA has been reported as low, with some believing resuscitation is futile. Within the adult population, there is growing evidence to suggest that with early and aggressive correction of reversible causes, survival from TCA may be comparable with that seen from medical out-of-hospital cardiac arrests. Key to this survival has been the adoption of a standardised approach to resuscitation. The aim of this study was, by a process of consensus, to develop an algorithm for the management of paediatric TCA for adoption in the UK.

METHODS

A modified consensus development meeting of UK experts involved in the management of paediatric TCA was held. Statements discussed at the meeting were drawn from those that did not reach consensus (positive/negative) from a linked three-round online Delphi study. 19 statements relating to the diagnosis, management and futility of paediatric TCA were initially discussed in small groups before each participant anonymously recorded their agreement with the statement using 'yes', 'no' or 'don't know'. In keeping with our Delphi study, consensus was set a priori at 70%. Statements reaching consensus were included in the proposed algorithm.

RESULTS

41 participants attended the meeting. Of the 19 statements discussed, 13 reached positive consensus and were included in the algorithm. A single statement regarding initial rescue breaths reached negative consensus and was excluded. Consensus was not reached for five statements, including the use of vasopressors and thoracotomy for haemorrhage control in blunt trauma.

CONCLUSION

In attempt to standardise our approach to the management of paediatric TCA and to improve outcomes, we present the first consensus-based algorithm specific to the paediatric population. While this algorithm was developed for adoption in the UK, it may be applicable to similar healthcare systems internationally.

Traumatic cardiac arrest is associated with lower survival rate vs. medical cardiac arrest - Results from the French national registry

INTRODUCTION

The survival from traumatic vs. medical out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) are not yet well described. The objective of this study was to compare survival to hospital discharge and 30-day survival of non-matched and matched traumatic and medical OHCA cohorts.

MATERIAL & METHODS

National case-control, multicentre study based on the French national cardiac arrest registry. Following descriptive analysis, we compared survival rates of traumatic and medical cardiac arrest patients after propensity score matching.

RESULTS

Compared with medical OHCA (n = 40,878) trauma victims (n = 3209) were younger, more likely to be male and away from home at the time and less likely to be resuscitated. At hospital admission and at 30 days their survival odds were lower (OR: respectively 0.456 [0.353;0.558] and 0.240 [0.186;0.329]). After adjustment the survival odds for traumatic OHCA were 2.4 times lower at admission (OR: 0.416 [0.359;0.482]) and 6 times lower at day 30 (OR: 0.168 [0.117;0.241]).

CONCLUSIONS

The survival rates for traumatic OHCA were lower than for medical OHCA, with wider difference in matched vs. non-matched cohorts. Although the probability of survival is lower for trauma victims, the efforts are not futile and pre-hospital resuscitation efforts seem worthwhile.

A systematic review of 3251 emergency department thoracotomies: is it time for a national database?

PURPOSE

Emergency department thoracotomy (EDT) is a potentially life-saving procedure, performed on patients suffering traumatic cardiac arrest. Multiple indications have been reported, but overall survival remains unclear for each indication. The objective of this systematic review is to determine overall survival, survival stratified by indication, and survival stratified by geographical location for patients undergoing EDT across the world.

METHODS

Articles published between 2000 and 2016 were identified which detailed outcomes from EDT. All articles referring to pre-hospital, delayed, or operating room thoracotomy were excluded. Pooled odds ratios (OR) were calculated comparing differing indications.

RESULTS

Thirty-seven articles, containing 3251 patients who underwent EDT, were identified. There were 277 (8.5%) survivors. OR demonstrate improved survival for; penetrating vs blunt trauma (OR 2.10; p 0.0028); stab vs gun-shot (OR 5.45; p < 0.0001); signs of life (SOL) on admission vs no SOL (OR 5.36; p < 0.0001); and SOL in the field vs no SOL (OR 19.39; p < 0.0001). Equivalence of survival was demonstrated between cardiothoracic vs non-cardiothoracic injury (OR 1.038; p 1.000). Survival was worse for USA vs non-USA cohorts (OR 1.59; p 0.0012).

CONCLUSIONS

Penetrating injury remains a robust indication for EDT. Non-cardiothoracic cause of cardiac arrest should not preclude EDT. In the absence of on scene SOL, survival following EDT is extremely unlikely. Survival is significantly higher in the non-USA publications; reasons for this are highly complex. A UK multicentre prospective study which collects standardised data on all EDTs could provide robust evidence for better patient stratification.

Survival rate variation among different types of hospitalized traumatic cardiac arrest: A retrospective and nationwide study

Studies regarding the prognostic factors for survival conditions and the proportions of survival to discharge among different types of hospitalized traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) during the period of postresuscitation are limited.This nationwide study was designed to determine certain parameters and clarify the effect of various injuries on the survival of hospitalized TCA patients to discharge.Data were retrieved from the National Health Insurance Research Database (NHIRD) from 2007 to 2013 in Taiwan. We reviewed patients with a diagnosis of TCA using International Classification of Disease Clinical Modification, 9th revision codes (ICD-9-CM codes). Patients identified for analysis were simultaneously coded in traumatic etiology (ICD-9-CM codes: 800-999) and cardiac arrest (ICD-9-CM codes: 427.41 or 427.5). The determinants and effects of different types of injury on survival were evaluated by SPSS 22.0 (IBM, Armonk, NY).A total of 3481 cases of hospitalized TCA were selected from the NHIRD. The overall rate of survival to discharge was 22.1%. The results indicated a decreased adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of survival to discharge with higher numbers of organ failure (aOR: 0.82; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.73-0.92). Patients with ventricular fibrillation had a better discharge rate (aOR: 4.33; 95% CI: 3.29-5.70). Two parameters, transfer to another hospital and the number of intensive care unit beds, were positively correlated with survival. Compared with traffic accidents, different injuries associated with survival to discharge were identified; the aOR (95% CI) was 1.89 (1.12-3.19) for poisoning, 1.63 (1.13-2.36) for falls, and 2.00 (1.36-2.92) for drowning/suffocation.This study has shown that hospitalized TCA patients with multiple organ failure may be less likely to be discharged from the hospital. The presence of ventricular fibrillation rhythm on admission increased the odds of survival to discharge. In the phase of postcardiac arrest care, the number of intensive care unit beds and transfer to another hospital were positively correlated with survival. Those events attributed to traffic accidents have a much worse influence on the main outcome.

Paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest: a Delphi study to establish consensus on definition and management

AIMS

Paediatric traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA) is associated with low survival and poor outcomes. The mechanisms that underlie TCA are different from medical cardiac arrest; the approach to treatment of TCA may therefore also need to differ to optimise outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore the opinion of subject matter experts regarding the diagnosis and treatment of paediatric TCA, and to reach consensus on how best to manage this group of patients.

METHODS

An online Delphi study was conducted over three rounds, with the aim of achieving consensus (defined as 70% agreement) on statements related to the diagnosis and management of paediatric TCA. Participants were invited from paediatric and adult emergency medicine, paediatric anaesthetics, paediatric ICU and paediatric surgery, as well as Paediatric Major Trauma Centre leads and representatives from the Resuscitation Council UK. Statements were informed by literature reviews and were based on elements of APLS resuscitation algorithms as well as some concepts used in the management of adult TCA; they ranged from confirmation of cardiac arrest to the indications for thoracotomy.

RESULTS

73 experts completed all three rounds between June and November 2016. Consensus was reached on 14 statements regarding the diagnosis and management of paediatric TCA; oxygenation and ventilatory support, along with rapid volume replacement with warmed blood, improve survival. The duration of cardiac arrest and the lack of a response to intervention, along with cardiac standstill on ultrasound, help to guide the decision to terminate resuscitation.

CONCLUSION

This study has given a consensus-based framework to guide protocol development in the management of paediatric TCA, though further work is required in other key areas including its acceptability to clinicians.