Thromboelastography and rotational thromboelastometry in bleeding patients with coagulopathy: Practice management guideline from the Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma

Model based on single-nucleotide polymorphism to discriminate aspirin resistance patients

BACKGROUND

Aspirin is widely used for preventing ischaemic events. About 20%-40% of patients have aspirin resistance (ASR), which prevents them from benefiting from aspirin medication. This study aimed to develop and validate a model based on single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) to distinguish ASR patients.

METHODS

We included patients with spontaneous intracerebral haemorrhage and continuing antiplatelet therapy from a multicentre, prospective cohort study as the derivation cohort. Thromboelastography (inhibition of arachidonic acid channel<50%) was used to identify ASR. Genotyping was performed to identify the ASR-related SNP. Based on the result of the logistic analysis, the aspirin resistance in the Chinese population score (ASR-CN score) was established, and its accuracy was evaluated using the area under the curve (AUC). Patients receiving dual antiplatelet therapy for unruptured intracranial aneurysm embolism were prospectively included in the validation cohort. After embolism, 30-day ischaemic events, including ischaemic stroke, new or more frequent transient ischaemic attack, stent thrombosis and cerebrovascular death, were recorded.

RESULTS

The derivation cohort included 212 patients (155 male patients and the median age as 59). 87 (41.0%) individuals were identified with ASR. The multivariate logistic analysis demonstrated six SNPs of GP1BA, TBXA2R, PTGS2 and NOS3 as risk factors related to ASR. The ASR-CN score integrating these SNPs performed well to discriminate ASR patients from non-ASR patients (AUC as 0.77). Based on the validation cohort of 372 patients receiving antiplatelet therapy after embolism (including 130 ASR patients), the ASR-CN score continued to distinguish ASR patients with good accuracy (AUC as 0.80). Patients with high a ASR-CN score were more likely to suffer from 30-day ischaemic events after embolism (OR, 1.28; 95% CI, 1.10 to 1.50; p=0.002).

CONCLUSION

GP1BA, TBXA2R, PTGS2 and NOS3 were SNPs related to ASR. The ASR-CN score is an effective tool to discriminate ASR patients, which may guide antiplatelet therapy.

CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION

Surgical Treatments of Antiplatelet Intracerebral Hemorrhage cohort (unique identifier: ChiCTR1900024406, http://www.chictr.org.cn/edit.aspx?pid=40640&htm=4).

Immediate Angiography and Decreased In-Hospital Mortality of Adult Trauma Patients: A Nationwide Study

PURPOSE

This study aimed to elucidate whether immediate angiography within 30 min is associated with lower in-hospital mortality compared with non-immediate angiography.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using a nationwide trauma databank (2019-2020). Adult trauma patients who underwent emergency angiography within 12 h after hospital arrival were included. Patients who underwent surgery before angiography were excluded. Immediate angiography was defined as one performed within 30 min after arrival (door-to-angio time ≤ 30 min). In-hospital mortality and non-operative management (NOM) failure were compared between patients with immediate and non-immediate angiography. Inverse probability weighting with propensity scores was conducted to adjust patient demographics, injury mechanism and severity, vital signs on hospital arrival, and resuscitative procedures. A restricted cubic spline curve was drawn to reveal survival benefits by door-to-angio time.

RESULTS

Among 1,455 patients eligible for this study, 92 underwent immediate angiography. Angiography ≤ 30 min was associated with decreased in-hospital mortality (5.0% vs 11.1%; adjusted odds ratio [OR], 0.42 [95% CI, 0.31-0.56]; p < 0.001), as well as lower frequency of NOM failure: thoracotomy and laparotomy after angiography (0.8% vs. 1.8%; OR, 0.44 [0.22-0.89] and 2.6% vs. 6.5%; OR, 0.38 [0.26-0.56], respectively). The spline curve showed a linear association between increasing mortality and prolonged door-to-angio time in the initial 100 min after arrival.

CONCLUSION

In trauma patients, immediate angiography ≤ 30 min was associated with lower in-hospital mortality and fewer NOM failures.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Level 3b, non randomized controlled cohort/follow up study.

Contemporary management of major haemorrhage in critical care

Haemorrhagic shock is frequent in critical care settings and responsible for a high mortality rate due to multiple organ dysfunction and coagulopathy. The management of critically ill patients with bleeding and shock is complex, and treatment of these patients must be rapid and definitive. The administration of large volumes of blood components leads to major physiological alterations which must be mitigated during and after bleeding. Early recognition of bleeding and coagulopathy, understanding the underlying pathophysiology related to specific disease states, and the development of individualised management protocols are important for optimal outcomes. This review describes the contemporary understanding of the pathophysiology of various types of coagulopathic bleeding; the diagnosis and management of critically ill bleeding patients, including major haemorrhage protocols and post-transfusion management; and finally highlights recent areas of opportunity to better understand optimal management strategies for managing bleeding in the intensive care unit (ICU).

Early Goal-Directed Hemostatic Therapy for Severe Acute Bleeding Management in the Intensive Care Unit: A Narrative Review

This is a narrative review of the published evidence for bleeding management in critically ill patients in different clinical settings in the intensive care unit (ICU). We aimed to describe "The Ten Steps" approach to early goal-directed hemostatic therapy (EGDHT) using point-of-care testing (POCT), coagulation factor concentrates, and hemostatic drugs, according to the individual needs of each patient. We searched National Library of Medicine, MEDLINE for publications relevant to management of critical ill bleeding patients in different settings in the ICU. Bibliographies of included articles were also searched to identify additional relevant studies. English-language systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized trials, observational studies, and case reports were reviewed. Data related to study methodology, patient population, bleeding management strategy, and clinical outcomes were qualitatively evaluated. According to systematic reviews and meta-analyses, EGDHT guided by viscoelastic testing (VET) has been associated with a reduction in transfusion utilization, improved morbidity and outcome in patients with active bleeding. Furthermore, literature data showed an increased risk of severe adverse events and poor clinical outcomes with inappropriate prophylactic uses of blood components to correct altered conventional coagulation tests (CCTs). Finally, prospective, randomized, controlled trials point to the role of goal-directed fibrinogen substitution to reduce bleeding and the amount of red blood cell (RBC) transfusion with the potential to decrease mortality. In conclusion, severe acute bleeding management in the ICU is still a major challenge for intensive care physicians. The organized and sequential approach to the bleeding patient, guided by POCT allows for rapid and effective bleeding control, through the rational use of blood components and hemostatic drugs, since VET can identify specific coagulation disorders in real time, guiding hemostatic therapy with coagulation factor concentrates and hemostatic drugs with individual goals.

Hemostatic effect of fibrinogen concentrate on traumatic massive hemorrhage: a propensity score matching study

Background

Fibrinogen concentrate (FC) can be administered during massive transfusions to manage trauma-induced coagulopathy. However, its effectiveness in survival remains inconclusive due to scarce high-level evidence. This study aimed to investigate the hemostatic effects of FC regarding mortality in massive hemorrhage caused by trauma.

Methods

This retrospective study analyzed 839 patients who received massive transfusions (red blood cells (RBCs) ≥5 units in 4 hours or ≥10 units in 24 hours) at a level I trauma center between 2015 and 2022. Patients who were transferred to other hospitals or were deceased upon arrival, suffered or died from severe brain injury, and were aged 15 years or less were excluded (n=334). 1:2 propensity score matching was performed to compare the 'FC (+)' group who had received FC in 24 hours (n=68) with those who had not ('FC (-)', n=437). The primary outcome was mortality, and the secondary outcomes included transfusion volume.

Results

The variables for matching included vital signs, injury characteristics, prehospital time, implementation of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta, and blood gas analysis results. The administration of FC did not significantly reduce or predict mortality (in-hospital, 24 hours, 48 hours, or 7 days). The FC (-) group received more units of RBC (25.69 units vs. 16.71 units, p<0.001, standardized mean difference [SMD] 0.595), fresh frozen plasma (16.79 units vs. 12.91 units, p=0.023, SMD 0.321), and platelets (8.76 units vs. 5.46 units, p=0.002, SMD 0.446) than the FC (+) group.

Conclusion

The use of FC did not show survival benefits but reduced transfusion requirements in traumatic massive hemorrhages, highlighting a need for future investigations. In the future, individualized goal-directed transfusion with FC may play a significant role in treating massive bleeding.

Level of evidence

IV, retrospective study having more than one negative criterion.

Comparison of Two Viscoelastic Testing Devices in a Parturient Population

Background: Viscoelastic hemostatic assays (VHAs) have become an integral diagnostic tool in guiding hemostatic therapy, offering new opportunities in personalized hemostatic resuscitation. This study aims to assess the interchangeability of ClotPro® and ROTEM® delta in the unique context of parturient women. Methods: Blood samples from 217 parturient women were collected at three timepoints. A total of 631 data sets were eligible for our final analysis. The clotting times were analyzed via extrinsic and intrinsic assays, and the clot firmness parameters A5, A10, and MCF were analyzed via extrinsic, intrinsic, and fibrin polymerization assays. In parallel, the standard laboratory coagulation statuses were obtained. Device comparison was assessed using regression and Bland-Altman plots. The best cutoff calculations were used to determine the VHA values corresponding to the established standard laboratory cutoffs. Results: The clotting times in the extrinsic and intrinsic assays showed notable differences between the devices, while the extrinsic and intrinsic clot firmness results demonstrated interchangeability. The fibrinogen assays revealed higher values in ClotPro® compared to ROTEM®. An ROC analysis identified VHA parameters with high predictive values for coagulopathy exclusion and yet low specificity. Conclusions: In the obstetric setting, the ROTEM® and ClotPro® parameters demonstrate a significant variability. Device- and indication-specific transfusion algorithms are essential for the accurate interpretation of measurements and adequate hemostatic therapy.

Point-of-care, goal-directed management of bleeding in trauma patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The purpose of this review is to consider the clinical value of point-of-care (POC) testing in coagulopathic trauma patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC).

RECENT FINDINGS

Patients suffering from severe TBI or TIC are at risk of developing pronounced haemostatic disorders. Standard coagulation tests (SCTs) are insufficient to reflect the complexity of these coagulopathies. Recent evidence has shown that viscoelastic tests (VETs) identify haemostatic disorders more rapidly and in more detail than SCTs. Moreover, VET results can guide coagulation therapy, allowing individualised treatment, which decreases transfusion requirements. However, the impact of VET on mortality remains uncertain. In contrast to VETs, the clinical impact of POC platelet function testing is still unproven.

SUMMARY

POC SCTs are not able to characterise the complexity of trauma-associated coagulopathy. VETs provide a rapid estimation of underlying haemostatic disorders, thereby providing guidance for haemostatic therapy, which impacts allogenic blood transfusion requirements. The value of POC platelet function testing to identify platelet dysfunction and guide platelet transfusion is still uncertain.

Guided blood transfusion of trauma patients with rotational thromboelastometry: a single-center cohort study

BACKGROUND

Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) is a blood test used to measure in vitro clot strength as a surrogate for a patient's ability to form clots in vivo. This provides information about induction, formation, and clot lysis, allowing goal-directed transfusion therapy for specific hemostatic needs. We sought to evaluate the effect of ROTEM-guided transfusion on blood product usage and in-hospital mortality among patients with a traumatic injury.

METHODS

This was a single-center observational cohort analysis of emergency department patients in a Level 1 trauma center. We compared blood usage in trauma patients in whom ratio-based massive hemorrhage protocols were activated in the twelve months before the introduction of ROTEM (pre-ROTEM group) to the twelve months following the introduction of ROTEM (ROTEM-period group). ROTEM was implemented in this center in November 2016. The ROTEM device allowed clinicians to make real-time decisions about blood product therapy in resuscitation for trauma.

RESULTS

The pre-ROTEM group contained 21 patients. Forty-three patients were included from the ROTEM-period, of whom 35 patients received ROTEM-guided resuscitation (81% compliance). The use of fibrinogen concentrate was significantly higher in the ROTEM-period group (pre-ROTEM mean 0.2 vs. ROTEM-period mean 0.8; p = 0.006). There was no significant difference in the number of units of red blood cells, platelets, cryoprecipitate, or fresh frozen plasma transfused between these groups. There was no significant difference in the mortality rate between the pre-ROTEM and ROTEM-period groups (33% vs. 19%; p = 0.22).

CONCLUSIONS

The introduction of ROTEM-guided transfusion at this institution was associated with increased fibrinogen usage, but this did not impact mortality rates. There was no difference in the administration of red blood cell, fresh frozen plasma, platelet, and cryoprecipitate. Future research should focus on increased ROTEM compliance and optimizing ROTEM-guided transfusion to prevent blood product overuse among trauma patients.

[Viscoelasticity-based point of care coagulation diagnostics in the context of resuscitation room management of severely injured and bleeding trauma patients : Diagnostics and treatment of trauma-induced coagulopathy]

Uncontrolled bleeding with associated trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) remains the leading cause of preventable death after severe trauma. Meanwhile, TIC is recognized as a separate clinical entity with substantial impact on downstream morbidity and mortality. In clinical practice severely injured and bleeding patients are often still being treated according to established damage control surgery (DCS) procedures with surgical bleeding control and empirical transfusion of classical blood products in predefined ratios in the sense of damage control resuscitation (DCR); however, algorithms are also available, which have been constructed from established viscoelasticity-based point of care (POC) diagnostic procedures and target value-oriented treatments. The latter enables a timely qualitative assessment of coagulation function from whole blood at bedside and provides rapid and clinically useful information on the presence, development and dynamics of the coagulation disorder. The early implementation of viscoelasticity-based POC procedures in the context of resuscitation room management of severely injured and bleeding patients was uniformly associated with reductions in potentially harmful blood products, especially overtransfusions, and an overall improvement in outcome including survival. The present article reviews the clinical questions around the use of viscoelasticity-based procedures as well as recommendations for the early and acute management of bleeding trauma patients taking the current literature into account.

A Review of Thromboelastography for Nurses

BACKGROUND

Thromboelastography is a viscoelastic test with multiple potential advantages over conventional coagulation tests in various disease states. Thromboelastography rapidly provides qualitative and quantitative information related to a patient's coagulation status.

OBJECTIVE

To describe recent studies of the use of thromboelastography in various clinical states and how thromboelastography is used in coagulation management.

METHODS

A literature review using the MEDLINE and PubMed databases was conducted. The updated methodology for integrated reviews by Whittemore and Knafl was followed. Coauthors evaluated separate areas that were independently reviewed by other coauthors to ensure appropriateness for inclusion.

RESULTS

The use of thromboelastography for various clinical conditions with challenging hemostatic profiles has increased. This integrative review covers the use of thromboelastography in patients with trauma, medication-induced coagulopathy, acute and chronic liver failure, and cardiothoracic surgery. Potential future directions are also discussed.

DISCUSSION

Thromboelastography has numerous potential benefits over conventional coagulation tests for assessing coagulation status in patients in various clinical states. Nurses can support clinical decisions to use the most appropriate test for their patients.

CONCLUSIONS

Each team member should be involved in assessing the usefulness of thromboelastography. Critical care nurses and the multidisciplinary team must identify patients in whom its use is warranted, interpret the results, and provide appropriate interventions in response to the results and clinical status of the patient.

Coagulation profiles in patients with sepsis/septic shock identify mixed hypo-hypercoagulation patterns based on rotational thromboelastometry: A prospective observational study

INTRODUCTION

Sepsis-induced hemostatic disturbances are common and are associated with poor outcomes. Additionally, conventional coagulation tests (CCTs) overdiagnose hypocoagulation and cannot detect hypercoagulation and hyperfibrinolysis. The aim of this study was to describe the coagulation profiles of patients with sepsis/septic shock using rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) and to compare coagulation states between sepsis and septic shock groups and between surviving and non-surviving groups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This prospective, observational, single-center study was conducted in the intensive care unit (ICU) of the University Medical Center Ho Chi Minh City, from 6/2020-12/2021. Patients aged ≥18 years with sepsis or septic shock according to the Sepsis-3 criteria were included. ROTEM and CCTs were concurrently performed within the first 24 h of ICU admission.

RESULTS

In total, 161 patients were enrolled. Based on ROTEM, 72.7 % of patients with sepsis/septic shock had coagulation disorders, including 25.5 % hypercoagulation, 54.7 % hypocoagulation, 13.6 % mixed hypo-hypercoagulation patterns, and 18.6 % hyperfibrinolysis. A common mixed disorder subtype was characterized by prolonged initial clotting time (CT) with subsequently increased clot firmness. Fibrinogen levels and maximum clot formation (MCF)-fibtem were strongly correlated (rho = 0.73, p < 0.05). Hypocoagulation was observed more in the septic shock group than in the sepsis group. Compared to survivors, non-survivors had more prolonged CT-extem.

CONCLUSIONS

ROTEM could identify hypocoagulability, hypercoagulability, mixed hypo-hypercoagulability patterns, and hyperfibrinolysis in patients with sepsis/septic shock. Elevated MCF-fibtem and elevated fibrinogen levels were notably common and strongly correlated. The septic shock group had more hypocoagulation than the sepsis group. Lastly, non-survivors had more prolonged CT-extem than survivors.

[The chapters "Stop the bleed-prehospital" and "Coagulation management and volume therapy (emergency departement)" in the new S3 guideline "Polytrauma/severe injury treatment"]

The S3 guideline on the treatment of patients with severe/multiple injuries by the German Association of the Scientific Medical Societies was updated between 2020 and 2022. This article describes the essence of the new chapter "Stop the bleed-prehospital" and the revised chapter "Coagulation management and volume therapy".

Thromboelastometry-guided haemostatic resuscitation in severely injured patients: a propensity score-matched study

BACKGROUND

To accelerate the diagnosis and treatment of trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC), viscoelastic haemostatic assays (VHA) are increasingly used worldwide, although their value is still debated, with a recent randomised trial showing no improvement in outcome. The objective of this retrospective study was to compare 2 cohorts of injured patients in which TIC was managed with either a VHA-based algorithm or a conventional coagulation test (CCT)-based algorithm.

METHODS

Data were retrieved from 2 registries and patients were included in the study if they received at least 1 unit of red blood cell in the first 24 h after admission. A propensity score, including sex, age, blunt vs. penetrating, systolic blood pressure, GCS, ISS and head AIS, admission lactate and PT_ratio, tranexamic acid administration, was then constructed. Primary outcome was the proportion of subjects who were alive and free of massive transfusion (MT) at 24 h after injury. We also compared the cost for blood products and coagulation factors.

RESULTS

From 2012 to 2019, 7250 patients were admitted in the 2 trauma centres, and among these 624 were included in the study (CCT group: 380; VHA group: 244). After propensity score matching, 215 patients remained in each study group without any significant difference in demographics, vital signs, injury severity, or laboratory analysis. At 24 h, more patients were alive and free of MT in the VHA group (162 patients, 75%) as compared to the CCT group (112 patients, 52%; p < 0.01) and fewer patients received MT (32 patients, 15% vs. 91 patients, 42%, p < 0.01). However, no significant difference was observed for mortality at 24 h (odds ratio 0.94, 95% CI 0.59-1.51) or survival at day 28 (odds ratio 0.87, 95% CI 0.58-1.29). Overall cost of blood products and coagulation factors was dramatically reduced in the VHA group as compared to the CCT group (median [interquartile range]: 2357 euros [1108-5020] vs. 4092 euros [2510-5916], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

A VHA-based strategy was associated with an increase of the number of patients alive and free of MT at 24 h together with an important reduction of blood product use and associated costs. However, that did not translate into an improvement in mortality.

The European guideline on management of major bleeding and coagulopathy following trauma: sixth edition

BACKGROUND

Severe trauma represents a major global public health burden and the management of post-traumatic bleeding continues to challenge healthcare systems around the world. Post-traumatic bleeding and associated traumatic coagulopathy remain leading causes of potentially preventable multiorgan failure and death if not diagnosed and managed in an appropriate and timely manner. This sixth edition of the European guideline on the management of major bleeding and coagulopathy following traumatic injury aims to advise clinicians who care for the bleeding trauma patient during the initial diagnostic and therapeutic phases of patient management.

METHODS

The pan-European, multidisciplinary Task Force for Advanced Bleeding Care in Trauma included representatives from six European professional societies and convened to assess and update the previous version of this guideline using a structured, evidence-based consensus approach. Structured literature searches covered the period since the last edition of the guideline, but considered evidence cited previously. The format of this edition has been adjusted to reflect the trend towards concise guideline documents that cite only the highest-quality studies and most relevant literature rather than attempting to provide a comprehensive literature review to accompany each recommendation.

RESULTS

This guideline comprises 39 clinical practice recommendations that follow an approximate temporal path for management of the bleeding trauma patient, with recommendations grouped behind key decision points. While approximately one-third of patients who have experienced severe trauma arrive in hospital in a coagulopathic state, a systematic diagnostic and therapeutic approach has been shown to reduce the number of preventable deaths attributable to traumatic injury.

CONCLUSION

A multidisciplinary approach and adherence to evidence-based guidelines are pillars of best practice in the management of severely injured trauma patients. Further improvement in outcomes will be achieved by optimising and standardising trauma care in line with the available evidence across Europe and beyond.

Reply to Bareille et al. Are Viscoelastometric Assays of Old Generation Ready for Disposal? Comment on "Volod et al. Viscoelastic Hemostatic Assays: A Primer on Legacy and New Generation Devices. J. Clin. Med. 2022, 11, 860"

We are pleased to see that Bareille et al. have written a Commentary: "Are viscoelastometric assays of old generation ready for disposal?" [...].

Predicting Arterial Thrombotic Events Following Peripheral Revascularization Using Objective Viscoelastic Data

Background Peripheral artery disease is endemic in our globally aging population, with >200 million affected worldwide. Graft/stent thrombosis after revascularization is common and frequently results in amputation, major adverse cardiovascular events, and cardiovascular mortality. Optimizing medications to decrease thrombosis is of paramount importance; however, limited guidance exists on how to use and monitor antithrombotic therapy in this heterogeneous population. Thromboelastography with platelet mapping (TEG-PM) provides comprehensive coagulation metrics and may be integral to the next stage of patient-centered thrombophrophylaxis. This prospective study aimed to determine if TEG-PM could predict subacute graft/stent thrombosis following lower extremity revascularization, and if objective cut point values could be established to identify those high-risk patients. Methods and Results We conducted a single-center prospective observational study of patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization. Patients were followed up for the composite end point postoperative graft/stent thrombosis at 1 year. TEG-PM analysis of the time point before thrombosis in the event group was compared with the last postoperative visit in the nonevent group. Cox proportional hazards analysis examined the association of TEG-PM metrics to thrombosis. Cut point analysis explored the predictive capacity of TEG-PM metrics for those at high risk. A total of 162 patients were analyzed, of whom 30 (18.5%) experienced graft/stent thrombosis. Patients with thrombosis had significantly greater platelet aggregation (79.7±15.7 versus 58.5±26.4) and lower platelet inhibition (20.7±15.6% versus 41.1±26.6%) (all P<0.01). Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that for every 1% increase in platelet aggregation, the hazard of experiencing an event during the study period increased by 5% (hazard ratio, 1.05 [95% CI, 1.02-1.07]; P<0.01). An optimal cut point of >70.8% platelet aggregation and/or <29.2% platelet inhibition identifies those at high risk of thrombosis with 87% sensitivity and 70% to 71% specificity. Conclusions Among patients undergoing lower extremity revascularization, increased platelet reactivity was predictive of subacute postoperative graft/stent thrombosis. On the basis of the cut points of >70.8% platelet aggregation and <29.2% platelet inhibition, consideration of an alternative or augmented antithrombotic regimen for high-risk patients may decrease the risk of postoperative thrombotic events.

The role of point of care thromboelastography (TEG) and thromboelastometry (ROTEM) in management of Primary postpartum haemorrhage: A meta-analysis and systematic review

Background

The utility of instantaneous evaluation of coagulation during primary postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) is paramount in the context of empirical blood product transfusion-related risk of dilutional and consumptive coagulopathy and circulatory overload.

Methods

A profound screening of electronic databases till August 15, 2022 was carried out after being enlisted in PROSPERO (CRD42021275514). Randomized control studies, comparative cohort studies, and cross-sectional studies comparing point-of-care viscoelastic test guided blood product transfusion with empirical transfusion in patients with PPH were included.

Results

We retrieved five studies, with a total of 1914 parturient with PPH. Patients receiving transfusion based upon point of care viscoelastic tests had lesser risk of having emergency hysterectomy (Odds ratio (OR) = 0.55, 95% CI 0.32-0.95, I2 = 7%), transfusion-associated circulatory overload (TACO) (OR = 0.03, 95% CI 0.00-0.50), reduced transfusion of fresh frozen plasma (OR = 0.07, 95% CI 0.04-0.14, I2 = 89%), platelets (OR = 0.51, 95% CI 0.28-0.91, I2 = 89%), packed red blood cell transfusion (OR = 0.70, 95% CI 0.55-0.88, I2 = 89%), and had better cost-effective treatment [Mean difference (MD) = -357.5, 95% CI - 567.75 to -147.25, I2 = 93%] than patient received empirical transfusion. However, there was no significant difference in the requirement of ICU admissions (OR = 0.77, 95% CI = 0.46-1.29, I2 = 82%). No mortality was detected across the studies.

Conclusions

Point of care viscoelastic assessment guided transfusion in PPH confederates with reduced morbidity. Nevertheless, more studies on the triggering values for transfusion, long-term survival, and cost-benefit in patients with PPH are warranted to establish its utility.

Advanced diagnostic and therapeutic techniques for anaesthetists in thoracic trauma: an evidence-based review

Anaesthetists play an important role in the evaluation and treatment of patients with signs of thoracic trauma. Anaesthesia involvement can provide valuable input using both advanced diagnostic and therapeutic interventions. Commonly performed interventions may be complicated in this setting including airway management, damage control resuscitation, and acute pain management. Anaesthetists must consider additional factors including airway injuries, vascular injuries, and coagulopathy when treating this population. This evidence-based review discusses traumatic thoracic injuries with a focus on new interventions and modern anaesthesia techniques. This review further serves to support the early involvement of anaesthetists in the emergency department and other areas where they can provide value to the trauma care pathway.

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

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

Systematic reviews on platelet transfusions: Is there unnecessary duplication of effort? A scoping review

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES

Platelet transfusions are used across multiple patient populations to prevent and correct bleeding. This scoping review aimed to map the currently available systematic reviews (SRs) and evidence-based guidelines in the field of platelet transfusion.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted in seven databases for SRs on effectiveness (including dose and timing, transfusion trigger and ratio to other blood products), production modalities and decision support related to platelet transfusion. The following data were charted: methodological features of the SR, population, concept and context features, outcomes reported, study design and number of studies included. Results were synthesized in interactive evidence maps.

RESULTS

We identified 110 SRs. The majority focused on clinical effectiveness, including prophylactic or therapeutic transfusions compared to no platelet transfusion (34 SRs), prophylactic compared to therapeutic-only transfusion (8 SRs), dose, timing (11 SRs) and threshold for platelet transfusion (15 SRs) and the ratio of platelet transfusion to other blood products in massive transfusion (14 SRs). Furthermore, we included 34 SRs on decision support, of which 26 evaluated viscoelastic testing. Finally, we identified 22 SRs on platelet production modalities, including derivation (4 SRs), pathogen inactivation (6 SRs), leucodepletion (4 SRs) and ABO/human leucocyte antigen matching (5 SRs). The SRs were mapped according to concept and clinical context.

CONCLUSION

An interactive evidence map of SRs and evidence-based guidelines in the field of platelet transfusion has been developed and identified multiple reviews. This work serves as a tool for researchers looking for evidence gaps, thereby both supporting research and avoiding unnecessary duplication.

Viscoelastic testing: an illustrated review of technology and clinical applications

Viscoelastic testing (VET), including thromboelastography and thromboelastometry, provides a rapid and comprehensive picture of whole blood coagulation dynamics and hemostasis that can be reviewed and evaluated at the point-of-care. This technology is over 50 years old; however, over the past few years, there has been a significant increase in research examining the use of VET. Best practice guidelines for the use of VET exist in both the United States and Europe, particularly for elective cardiac surgery, although recommendations for implementation are somewhat limited in some clinical areas by the lack of studies constituting high-grade evidence. Other challenges to implementation surround validation of the technology in some care settings as well as lack of training. Nevertheless, there is a wide range of potential clinical applications, such as treating coagulopathies in liver disease and transplant surgery, critical care, as well as within obstetrical hemorrhage. In this illustrated review, we provide an overview of viscoelastic testing technology (also called viscoelastic hemostatic assays) and describe how the assays can be used to provide a broad overview of hemostasis from clot formation to clot lysis, while highlighting the contribution of coagulation factors and platelets. We then summarize the major clinical applications for viscoelastic testing, including more recent applications, such as in COVID-19. Each section describes the clinical context, and key publications, followed by a representative algorithm and key guidelines.

The Role of Thromboelastography in Identifying Coagulopathy Among Geriatric Traumatic Brain Injury Patients

Background The geriatric population has the highest incidence of head injury, and those who are anticoagulated have an increased risk of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). The availability of viscoelastic coagulation studies has coincided with the development of many anticoagulation reversal agents. In this study, our objective was to assess whether the thromboelastography (TEG) assay affected clinical decision-making regarding reversal agent administration among geriatric patients with ICH caused by blunt head trauma. Methodology We prospectively screened adults aged 65 and older with head trauma presenting to the emergency departments of two level-one trauma centers. International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes S00-09 were used to identify the diagnosis of head injury. Patients with CT head imaging positive for acute ICH were included. Each patient was assessed for home use of antiplatelet or anticoagulant medications, as well as in-hospital use of any reversal agents. Reversal agent administration and mortality were compared between patients who received TEG and those who did not. Results A total of 680 patients had acute ICH on head CT, and 324 (48%) patients received TEG. More patients screened with TEG were transfused platelets (30.2% vs. 10.7%, p < 0.001). This remained significant for patients taking anticoagulants, antiplatelets, or neither. There were no differences in the administration of other reversal agents (prothrombin complex concentrate or fresh frozen plasma) or mortality whether or not TEG was performed. Conclusions Patients who had TEG performed were more likely to receive platelet reversal agents, regardless of antiplatelet medication usage. Among elderly adults with ICH, TEG is a rapid screening test that may help identify patients with platelet function abnormalities requiring reversal.

Clinical Application of Thromboelastography in Acute Ischemic Stroke

Acute ischemic stroke (AIS), characterized by high morbidity and mortality, has imposed a considerable burden on society. Despite rapid development in the treatment of AIS, there is still a high risk of recurrence. Furthermore, there is a time delay in waiting for the results of conventional coagulation tests in candidate patients for intravenous thrombolysis therapy. Heterogeneous responses to antiplatelet, intravascular thrombolysis, and endovascular therapies also worsen the situation. Thromboelastography (TEG), as a global and portable detection method for hemostasis, facilitates clinicians in disease monitoring, treatment evaluation, and prognosis prediction in AIS. In this narrative review, we provided a comprehensive summary of the clinical application of TEG in ischemic stroke and gave insights to further studies.

Is ROTEM Diagnostic in Trauma Care Associated with Lower Mortality Rates in Bleeding Patients?—A Retrospective Analysis of 7461 Patients Derived from the TraumaRegister DGU®

Introduction: Death from uncontrolled trauma haemorrhage and subsequent trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) is potentially preventable. Point-of-care devices such as rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM^®) are advocated to detect haemostatic derangements more rapidly than conventional laboratory diagnostics. Regarding reductions in RBC transfusion, the use of ROTEM has been described as being efficient and associated with positive outcomes in several studies. Objective: The effect of ROTEM use was assessed on three different outcome variables: (i) administration of haemostatics, (ii) rate of RBC transfusions and (iii) mortality in severely injured patients. Methods and Material: A retrospective analysis of a large data set of severely injured patients collected into the TraumaRegister DGU^® between 2009 and 2016 was conducted. The data of 7461 patients corresponded to the inclusion criteria and were subdivided into ROTEM-using and ROTEM-non-using groups. Both groups were analysed regarding (i) administration of haemostatics, (ii) rate of RBC transfusions and (iii) mortality. Results: A lower mortality rate in ROTEM-using groups was observed (p = 0.043). Furthermore, more patients received haemostatic medication when ROTEM was used. In ROTEM-using groups, there was a statistically relevant higher application of massive transfusion. Conclusions: In this retrospective study, the use of ROTEM was associated with reduced mortality and an increased application of haemostatics and RBC transfusions. Prospective evidence is needed for further evidence-based recommendations.

Thromboelastography-Guided Therapy Enhances Patient Blood Management in Cirrhotic Patients: A Meta-analysis Based on Randomized Controlled Trials

Patients with cirrhosis often have abnormal hemostasis, with increased risk of hemorrhage and thrombosis. Thromboelastography provides a rapid assessment of the coagulation status and can guide product transfusions in adult patients with cirrhosis. This study aimed to determine whether the use of thromboelastography in adult patients with cirrhosis decreases blood product use and impacts adverse events or mortality compared with standard practice. A registered (PROSPERO CRD42020192458) systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing thromboelastography-guided hemostatic management versus standard practice (control). Co-primary outcomes were the number of transfused platelet units and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) units. Secondary outcomes were mortality, adverse events, utilization of individual blood products, blood loss or excessive bleeding events, hospital/intensive care unit stay, and liver transplant/intervention outcomes. The search identified 260 articles, with five RCTs included in the meta-analysis. Platelet use was five times lower with thromboelastography versus the control, with a relative risk of 0.17 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.03–0.90]; p = 0.04), but FFP use did not differ significantly. Thromboelastography was associated with less blood product (p < 0.001), FFP + platelets (p < 0.001), and cryoprecipitate (p < 0.001) use. No differences were reported in bleeding rates or longer term mortality between groups, with the thromboelastography group having lower mortality at 7 days versus the control (relative risk [95% CI] = 0.52 [0.30–0.91]; p = 0.02). Thromboelastography-guided therapy in patients with cirrhosis enhances patient blood management by reducing use of blood products without increasing complications.

Study on the Predictive Value of Thromboelastography in Early Neurological Deterioration in Patients with Primary Acute Cerebral Infarction

Objective

To investigate the predictive value of thromboelastography for the occurrence of early neurological deterioration (END) in patients with primary acute cerebral infarction (ACI).

Methods

150 patients who were hospitalized in the department of neurology of our hospital from September 2020 to September 2021 and were clearly diagnosed with primary ACI by head CT and head magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were selected and divided into END and non-END groups according to the change in National Institute of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score within 72 h of admission. The general baseline data and laboratory indexes of the first examination at admission were compared between the two groups, and the factors that may affect the occurrence of END were determined by univariate analysis and multivariate logistic regression analysis, and the predictive value of thromboelastography on the occurrence of END after ACI was analyzed by applying the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve.

Results

Time to onset, baseline NIHSS score, percentage of diabetes, white blood cell (WBC) levels, C-reactive protein (CRP), and apolipoprotein B (Apo B) levels were higher in the END group than in the non-END group (P < 0.05); coagulation reaction time (RT) (3.97 ± 1.16 vs. 5.49 ± 1.03) and kinetic time (KT) (1.32 ± 0.67 vs. 1.82 ± 0.58) were lower in the END group than in the non-END group (P < 0.05). Inthe END group (P < 0.05) diabetes, baseline NHISS score, CRP level, Apo B level, and RT were independent risk factors for the development of END in patients with ACI (P < 0.05). The AUC of RT to predict the occurrence of END in patients with ACI was 0.855 (95% CI: 0784 to 0925, P = 0.001), with a sensitivity of 81.70% and specificity of 78.00% when the optimal cut-off value was 0.597.

Conclusion

NIHSS score at admission, CRP, apolipoprotein B, RT shortening, and diabetes mellitus were independent risk factors for the development of END in ACI patients; RT shortening in TEG was predictive of END in ACI patients.

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

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

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

Objective

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

Methods

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

Results

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

Conclusion

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

Supplementary Information

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

Thromboelastography-Guided Therapy Enhances Patient Blood Management in Cirrhotic Patients: A Meta-analysis Based on Randomized Controlled Trials

Patients with cirrhosis often have abnormal hemostasis, with increased risk of hemorrhage and thrombosis. Thromboelastography provides a rapid assessment of the coagulation status and can guide product transfusions in adult patients with cirrhosis. This study aimed to determine whether the use of thromboelastography in adult patients with cirrhosis decreases blood product use and impacts adverse events or mortality compared with standard practice. A registered (PROSPERO CRD42020192458) systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing thromboelastography-guided hemostatic management versus standard practice (control). Co-primary outcomes were the number of transfused platelet units and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) units. Secondary outcomes were mortality, adverse events, utilization of individual blood products, blood loss or excessive bleeding events, hospital/intensive care unit stay, and liver transplant/intervention outcomes. The search identified 260 articles, with five RCTs included in the meta-analysis. Platelet use was five times lower with thromboelastography versus the control, with a relative risk of 0.17 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.03-0.90]; p = 0.04), but FFP use did not differ significantly. Thromboelastography was associated with less blood product (p < 0.001), FFP + platelets (p < 0.001), and cryoprecipitate (p < 0.001) use. No differences were reported in bleeding rates or longer term mortality between groups, with the thromboelastography group having lower mortality at 7 days versus the control (relative risk [95% CI] = 0.52 [0.30-0.91]; p = 0.02). Thromboelastography-guided therapy in patients with cirrhosis enhances patient blood management by reducing use of blood products without increasing complications.

Thromboelastography-Guided Therapy Enhances Patient Blood Management in Cirrhotic Patients: A Meta-analysis Based on Randomized Controlled Trials

Patients with cirrhosis often have abnormal hemostasis, with increased risk of hemorrhage and thrombosis. Thromboelastography provides a rapid assessment of the coagulation status and can guide product transfusions in adult patients with cirrhosis. This study aimed to determine whether the use of thromboelastography in adult patients with cirrhosis decreases blood product use and impacts adverse events or mortality compared with standard practice. A registered (PROSPERO CRD42020192458) systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing thromboelastography-guided hemostatic management versus standard practice (control). Co-primary outcomes were the number of transfused platelet units and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) units. Secondary outcomes were mortality, adverse events, utilization of individual blood products, blood loss or excessive bleeding events, hospital/intensive care unit stay, and liver transplant/intervention outcomes. The search identified 260 articles, with five RCTs included in the meta-analysis. Platelet use was five times lower with thromboelastography versus the control, with a relative risk of 0.17 (95% confidence interval [CI]: [0.03-0.90]; p = 0.04), but FFP use did not differ significantly. Thromboelastography was associated with less blood product (p < 0.001), FFP + platelets (p < 0.001), and cryoprecipitate (p < 0.001) use. No differences were reported in bleeding rates or longer term mortality between groups, with the thromboelastography group having lower mortality at 7 days versus the control (relative risk [95% CI] = 0.52 [0.30-0.91]; p = 0.02). Thromboelastography-guided therapy in patients with cirrhosis enhances patient blood management by reducing use of blood products without increasing complications.

Thromboelastography Parameters in Urosepsis: A Retrospective Study

Thromboelastography (TEG) is usually used to monitor coagulation disorder clinically. It is unclear whether TEG has association with urosepsis and sepsis-induced coagulopathy (SIC). The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical significance of TEG parameters in urosepsis. 90 patients who were admitted to the Emergency Ward and Emergency Intensive Care Unit (EICU) of Ren Ji Hospital affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine due to urinary infection from February 2014 to February 2022 were retrospectively studied. Urosepsis patients and non-sepsis patients were separately investigated according to the final discharge diagnosis and Sepsis 3.0. At the same time, patients with urosepsis were further divided into groups of SIC and non-SIC based on the definition of SIC. The data of clinical features, laboratory biomarkers, and TEG parameters were collected and analyzed. There were significant differences in white blood cell count, C-reactive protein (CRP), platelet count, procalcitonin (PCT), fibrinogen (FIB), international normalized ratio (INR), prothrombin time (PT), D-dimer, and incidence of urinary tract obstruction between the urosepsis group and non-sepsis group (P < 0.05). In the comparison with non-sepsis group, K value was significantly lower (P = 0.006), while α-angle (P = 0.003) and clot index (CI) (P = 0.048) were significantly higher in urosepsis group. The area under the K value curve excluding urosepsis was 0.667. The areas under CI and α-angle curves for diagnosing urosepsis were 0.682 and 0.621, respectively. The patients in SIC group had significantly higher K value, lower α-angle, and maximum amplitude (MA) than those in non-SIC group (P < 0.05). Coagulopathy is prone to occur in patients with urosepsis. TEG is helpful for assessment of hypercoagulable state in urosepsis and prediction of hypocoagulability in SIC patients implying the dynamic process of DIC.

Viscoelastic Hemostatic Assays for Orthopedic Trauma and Elective Procedures

The application of viscoelastic hemostatic assays (VHAs) (e.g., thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM)) in orthopedics is in its relative infancy when compared with other surgical fields. Fortunately, several recent studies describe the emerging use of VHAs to quickly and reliably analyze the real-time coagulation and fibrinolytic status in both orthopedic trauma and elective orthopedic surgery. Trauma-induced coagulopathy—a spectrum of abnormal coagulation phenotypes including clotting factor depletion, inadequate thrombin generation, platelet dysfunction, and dysregulated fibrinolysis—remains a potentially fatal complication in severely injured and/or hemorrhaging patients whose timely diagnosis and management are aided by the use of VHAs. Furthermore, VHAs are an invaluable compliment to common coagulation tests by facilitating the detection of hypercoagulable states commonly associated with orthopedic injury and postoperative status. The use of VHAs to identify hypercoagulability allows for an accurate venous thromboembolism (VTE) risk assessment and monitoring of VTE prophylaxis. Until now, the data have been insufficient to permit an individualized approach with regard to dosing and duration for VTE thromboprophylaxis. By incorporating VHAs into routine practice, orthopedic surgeons will be better equipped to diagnose and treat the complete spectrum of coagulation abnormalities faced by orthopedic patients. This work serves as an educational primer and up-to-date review of the current literature on the use of VHAs in orthopedic surgery.

The coagulopathy underlying rotational thromboelastometry derangements in trauma patients: a prospective observational multicenter study

BACKGROUND

Viscoelastic hemostatic assays such as rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM®) are used to guide treatment of trauma induced coagulopathy. We hypothesized that ROTEM derangements reflect specific coagulation factor deficiencies after trauma.

METHODS

Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study in six European trauma centers in patients presenting with full trauma team activation. Patients with dilutional coagulopathy and patients on anticoagulants were excluded. Blood was drawn on arrival for measurement of ROTEM®, coagulation factor levels and markers of fibrinolysis. ROTEM® cut-off values to define hypocoagulability were: EXTEM clotting time (CT) >80s, EXTEM clot amplitude after 5 minutes (CA5) <40mm, EXTEM lysis at 30 minutes (Li30) <85%, FIBTEM clot amplitude after 5 minutes (CA5) <10mm and FIBTEM lysis at 30 minutes (Li30) <85%. Based on these, patients were divided into 7 deranged ROTEM® profiles and compared to the reference group (ROTEM® values within reference range). The primary endpoint was coagulation factors levels and fibrinolysis.

RESULTS

Of 1828 patients, 40% had ROTEM® derangements 40.0%, most often consisting of a combined decrease in EXTEM and FIBTEM CA5, that was present in 217 (11.9%) patients. While an isolated EXTEM CT>80s had no impact on mortality, all other ROTEM® derangements were associated with increased mortality. Also, coagulation factor levels in this group were similar to patients with a normal ROTEM®. Of coagulation factors, decrease was most apparent for fibrinogen (with a nadir of 0.78 g/L) and for factor V levels (with a nadir of 22.8%). In addition, increased fibrinolysis can be present when LI30 is normal but EXTEM and FIBTEM CA5 is decreased.

CONCLUSION

Coagulation factor levels and mortality in the group with an isolated clotting time prolongation is similar to patients with a normal ROTEM ®. Other ROTEM ® derangements are associated with mortality and reflect a depletion of fibrinogen and factor V. Increased fibrinolysis can be present when lysis after 30 minutes is normal.

Platelet Transfusion and Outcomes After Massive Transfusion Protocol Activation for Major Trauma: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Incorporation of massive transfusion protocols (MTPs) into acute major trauma care has reduced hemorrhagic mortality, but the threshold and timing of platelet transfusion in MTP are controversial. This study aimed to describe early (first 4 hours) platelet transfusion practice in a setting where platelet counts are available within 15 minutes and the effect of early platelet deployment on in-hospital mortality. Our hypothesis in this work was that platelet transfusion in resuscitation of severe trauma can be guided by rapid turnaround platelet counts without excess mortality.

METHODS

We examined MTP activations for all admissions from October 2016 to September 2018 to a Level 1 regional trauma center with a full trauma team activation. We characterized platelet transfusion practice by demographics, injury severity, and admission vital signs (as shock index: heart rate/systolic blood pressure) and laboratory results. A multivariable model assessed association between early platelet transfusion and mortality at 4 hours, 24 hours, and overall in-hospital, with P <.001.

RESULTS

Of the 11,474 new trauma patients admitted over the study period, 469 (4.0%) were massively transfused (defined as ≥10 units of red blood cells [RBCs] in 24 hours, ≥5 units of RBC in 6 hour, ≥3 units of RBC in 1 hour, or ≥4 units of total products in 30 minutes). 250 patients (53.0%) received platelets in the first 4 hours, and most early platelet transfusions occurred in the first hour after admission (175, 70.0%). Platelet recipients had higher injury severity scores (mean ± standard deviation [SD], 35 ± 16 vs 28 ± 14), lower admission platelet counts (189 ± 80 × 109/L vs 234 ± 80 × 109/L; P < .001), higher admission shock index (heart rate/systolic blood pressure; 1.15 ± 0.46 vs 0.98 ± 0.36; P < .001), and received more units of red cells in the first 4 hours (8.7 ± 7.7 vs 3.3 ± 1.6 units), 24 hours (9 ± 9 vs 3 ± 2 units), and in-hospital (9 ± 8 vs 3 ± 2 units) than nonrecipients (all P < .001). We saw no difference in 4-hour (8% vs 7.8%; P = .4), 24-hour (16.4% vs 10.5%; P = .06), or in-hospital mortality (30.4% vs 23.7%; P = .1) between platelet recipients and nonrecipients. After adjustment for age, injury severity, head injury, and admission physiology/laboratory results, early platelet transfusion was not associated with 4-hour, 24-hour, or in-hospital mortality.

CONCLUSIONS

In an advanced trauma care setting where platelet counts are available within 15 minutes, approximately half of massively transfused patients received early platelet transfusion. Early platelet transfusion guided by protocol-based clinical judgment and rapid-turnaround platelet counts was not associated with increased mortality.

The Non-Activated Thromboelastometry (NATEM) Assay's Application among Adults and Neonatal/Pediatric Population: A Systematic Review

The non-activated thromboelastometry (NATEM) assay is a point-of-care assay that can provide a comprehensive insight into the actual hemostatic mechanism. However, there are very limited data about its use in clinical practice. The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature for any data regarding the use of NATEM in several clinical settings. A systematic review of PubMed and Scopus databases was conducted through 20 January 2022 for studies evaluating the use of the NATEM assay in different clinical settings. The literature search yielded a total of 47 publications, 30 of which met the eligibility criteria for this review. Evaluation of NATEM’s detecting ability for hemostasis disorders is limited in the literature. The results of the included studies indicate that NATEM seems to be a sensitive method for the detection of hyperfibrinolysis and may have an advantage in the diagnosis of hemostatic disorders. It could be more informative than the other ROTEM assays for detecting changes in coagulation parameters in patients who receive anticoagulants. However, the reported outcomes are highly varying among the included studies. NATEM has a high sensitivity to detect hypo- or hypercoagulability and provides a detailed insight into the whole hemostatic process from clot formation to clot breakdown. It could be a useful technique in variable fields of medicine, not only in adults, but also in pediatric and neonatal populations, to guide different hemostatic treatments and predict coagulation disorders or mortality/morbidity; this issue remains to be further investigated.

Viscoelastic haemostatic point-of-care assays in the management of postpartum haemorrhage: a narrative review

Viscoelastic haemostatic assays provide rapid testing at the bed-side that identify all phases of haemostasis, from initial fibrin formation to clot lysis. In obstetric patients, altered haemostasis is common as pregnancy is associated with coagulation changes that may contribute to bleeding events such as postpartum haemorrhage, as well as thrombosis events. In this narrative review, we examine the potential clinical utility of viscoelastic haemostatic assays in postpartum haemorrhage and consider the current recommendations for their use in obstetric patients. We discuss the clinical benefits associated with the use of viscoelastic haemostatic assays due to the provision of (near) real-time readouts with a short turnaround, coupled with the identification of coagulation defects such as hypofibrinogenaemia. The use of viscoelastic haemostatic assay-guided algorithms may be beneficial to diagnose coagulopathy, predict postpartum haemorrhage, reduce transfusion requirements and monitor fibrinolysis in women with obstetric haemorrhage. Further studies are required to assess whether viscoelastic haemostatic assay-guided treatment improves clinical outcomes, and to confirm the utility of prepartum viscoelastic haemostatic assay measurements for identifying patients at risk of postpartum haemorrhage.

Use of Thromboelastography and Rotational Thromboelastometry in Otolaryngology: A Narrative Review

In the field of otolaryngology—head and neck surgery (ENT), coagulopathies present unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. In both hyper- and hypocoagulable patients, management of coagulopathies requires intricate attention to the nature of hemostatic competence. Common coagulation tests (CCTs) offer only a snapshot of hemostatic competence and do not provide a clear insight into the patient’s real-time hemostatic condition. Viscoelastic tests (VETs) offer a holistic and concurrent picture of the coagulation process. Although VETs have found prominent utilization in hepatic transplants, obstetrics, and emergent surgical settings, they have not been fully adopted in the realm of otolaryngology. The objective of this manuscript is to provide an overview of the literature evaluating the current utilization and possible future uses of VETs in the field of otolaryngology. The authors performed a comprehensive literature search of the utilization of VETs in otolaryngology and identified applicable studies that included descriptions of viscoelastic testing. Twenty-five studies were identified in this search, spanning topics from head and neck oncology, microvascular free flap reconstruction, obstructive sleep apnea, adenotonsillectomy, facial trauma, and epistaxis. The applicability of VETs has been demonstrated in head and neck oncology and microvascular free flap management, although their pervasiveness in practice is limited. Underutilization of VETs in the field of otolaryngology may be due to a lack of familiarity of the tests amongst practitioners. Instead, most otolaryngologists continue to rely on CCTs, including PT, PTT, INR, CBC, fibrinogen levels, and thrombin time. Learning to perform, interpret, and skillfully employ VETs in clinical and operative practice can greatly improve the management of coagulopathic patients who are at increased risk of bleeding or thrombosis.

Viscoelastic Hemostatic Assays: A Primer on Legacy and New Generation Devices

Viscoelastic hemostatic assay (VHAs) are whole blood point-of-care tests that have become an essential method for assaying hemostatic competence in liver transplantation, cardiac surgery, and most recently, trauma surgery involving hemorrhagic shock. It has taken more than three-quarters of a century of research and clinical application for this technology to become mainstream in these three clinical areas. Within the last decade, the cup and pin legacy devices, such as thromboelastography (TEG^® 5000) and rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM^® delta), have been supplanted not only by cartridge systems (TEG^® 6S and ROTEM^® sigma), but also by more portable point-of-care bedside testing iterations of these legacy devices (e.g., Sonoclot^®, Quantra^®, and ClotPro^®). Here, the legacy and new generation VHAs are compared on the basis of their unique hemostatic parameters that define contributions of coagulation factors, fibrinogen/fibrin, platelets, and clot lysis as related to the lifespan of a clot. In conclusion, we offer a brief discussion on the meteoric adoption of VHAs across the medical and surgical specialties to address COVID-19-associated coagulopathy.

Is it possible to improve prediction of outcome and blood requirements in the severely injured patients by defining categories of coagulopathy?

PURPOSE

It has been suggested to define the Trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) with a PT_ratio threshold of 1.20. We hypothesized that a more pragmatic classification would grade severity according to the PT_ratio (or corresponding ROTEM clotting time: EXTEM-CT), and that this would correlate better with the need for blood products (BP) and prognosis.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data of 1076 severely injured patients admitted from 01/2011 to 12/2019 in a university hospital. To determine the number of TIC categories and the best PT_ratio or EXTEM-CT thresholds for mortality at 24-h, a modified Mazumdar approach was used. Multivariate regression analyses were done to describe the relationship between PT_ratio and ROTEM parameter subclasses with mortality.

RESULTS

Three thresholds were, respectively, identified for PT_ratio (1.20, 1.90 and 3.00) and EXTEM-CT (90 s, 130 s, 200 s). The following categories were defined for PT_ratio: ≤ 1.20 (No TIC), 1.21-1.90 (Moderate TIC), 1.91-3.00 (severe TIC), > 3.00 (major TIC); and for EXTEM-CT: < 91 s (no TIC), 91-130 s (moderate TIC), 131-200 s (severe TIC) and > 200 s (major TIC). We observed that when the PT_ratio (or EXTEM-CT) increased, mortality and BP requirements increased. After multiple adjustments, we observed that each subclass of PT_ratio and EXTEM-CT was independently associated with mortality at 24-h.

CONCLUSION

In this study, we have described a pragmatic classification of coagulopathy utilizing PT_ratio and EXTEM-CT where increasing severity was associated with prognosis and the amount of BP administered. This could allow clinicians to better predict the outcome and anticipate the need for blood products.

Emergency Blood Transfusion for Trauma and Perioperative Resuscitation: Standard of Care

Uncontrolled and massive bleeding with derangement of coagulation is a major challenge in the management of both surgical and seriously injured patients. The underlying mechanism of trauma-induced or -associated coagulopathy is tissue injury in the presence of shock and acidosis provoking endothelial damage, activation of inflammation, and coagulation disbalancing. Furthermore, the combination of ongoing blood loss and consumption of blood components that are essential for effective coagulation worsens uncontrolled hemorrhage. Additionally, therapeutic actions, such as resuscitation with replacement fluids or allogeneic blood products, can further aggravate coagulopathy. Of the coagulation factors essential to the clotting process, fibrinogen is the first to be consumed to critical levels during acute bleeding and current evidence suggests that normalizing fibrinogen levels in bleeding patients improves clot formation and clot strength, thereby controlling hemorrhage. Three different therapeutic approaches are discussed controversially. Whole blood transfusion is used especially in the military scenario and is also becoming more and more popular in the civilian world, although it is accompanied by a strong lack of evidence and severe safety issues. Transfusion of allogeneic blood concentrates in fixed ratios without any targets has been investigated extensively with disappointing results. Individualized and target-controlled coagulation management based on point-of-care diagnostics with respect to the huge heterogeneity of massive bleeding situations is an alternative and advanced approach to managing coagulopathy associated with massive bleeding in the trauma as well as the perioperative setting.

Thromboelastography: a review for radiologists and implications on periprocedural bleeding risk

Thromboelastography (TEG) and rotational thromboelastometry are emerging technologies that are gaining increasing acceptance in the medical field to evaluate the coagulation status of patients on an individual level by assessing dynamic clot formation. TEG has been proven to reduce blood product use as well as improve patient outcomes in a variety of medical settings, including trauma and surgery due to the expediated nature of the test as well as the ability to determine specific deficiencies present in whole blood that are otherwise undetectable with traditional coagulation studies. Currently, no guidelines or recommendations are in place for the utilization of TEG in interventional or diagnostic radiology although access to TEG has become increasingly common in recent years. This manuscript presents a review of prior literature on the technical aspects of TEG as well as its use in various fields and explains the normal TEG-tracing parameters. Common hemodynamic abnormalities and their effect on the TEG tracing are illustrated, and the appropriate treatments for each abnormality are briefly mentioned. TEG has the potential to be a useful tool for determining the hemodynamic state of patients in both interventional and diagnostic radiology, and further research is needed to determine the value of these tests in the periprocedural setting.

Which injured patients with moderate fibrinogen deficit need fibrinogen supplementation?

Background

In severely injured patients, fibrinogen supplementation is recommended when fibrinogenemia is < 1.5 g L⁻¹, but some teams have suggested to use higher thresholds (fibrinogenemia < 2.0 g L⁻¹ or FIBTEM clot amplitude at 5 min (A5) values < 11 mm). The goal of this study was to specify in patients with a moderate fibrinogen deficit (MFD) whether some admission characteristics would be associated with fibrinogen administration at 24 h.

Methods

Prospective analysis of retrospectively collected data from a trauma registry (01/2011–12/2019). MFD-C was defined by a fibrinogenemia 1.51–1.99 g L⁻¹ or the corresponding FIBTEM-A5 values (MFD-A5) that were determined from linear regression and ROC curve analysis. Administration of fibrinogen were described according to the following admission parameters: shock index (SI) > 1, hemoglobin level < 110 g L⁻¹ (HemoCue®), and base deficit > 5 mEq L⁻¹. Data are expressed as count (%), median [IQR].

Results

1076 patients were included in the study and 266 (27%) had MFD-C, among them, 122/266 (46%) received fibrinogen. Patients with MFD-C who received fibrinogen were more severely injured (ISS: 27 [19–36] vs. 24 [17–29]) and had more impaired vital signs (base deficit: 5.4 [3.6–7.8] vs. 3.8 [2.0–6.0]). Linear regression analysis found a positive correlation between fibrinogen level and FIBTEM-A5 (r: 0.805). For a fibrinogen level < 1.5 g L⁻¹ and < 2.0 g L⁻¹, FIBTEM-A5 thresholds were 6 mm (sensitivity 85%, specificity 83%, AUC: 0.934) and 9 mm (sensitivity 84%, specificity 69%, AUC: 0.874), respectively. MFD-A5 values (185 (27%) patients) were defined as a FIBTEM-A5 between 7 and 9 mm. More than 50% of MFD-C patients presenting a SI > 1, a hemoglobin level < 110 g L⁻¹, or a base deficit > 5.0 mEq L⁻¹ received fibrinogen. The relative risk [95% CI] for fibrinogen administration (SI > 1) were 1.39 [1.06–1.82] for MFD-C, and 2.17 [1.48–3.19] for MFD-A5. Results were not modified after adjustment on the ISS.

Conclusions

We have shown in this study an association between shock parameters and fibrinogen administration. Further studies are needed to determine how these parameters may be used to guide fibrinogen administration in trauma patients with MFD.

Patient Blood Management in intensive care patients

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

Patients admitted to ICUs are a heterogeneous group, displaying multiple anaemia risk factors and comorbidities. Clinicians should therefore take all possible measures to identify modifiable risks. Patient Blood Management (PBM) is an approach promoting the timely application of evidence-based interventions designed to maintain patients own blood mass.

RECENT FINDINGS

Within ICU-patients, anaemia is highly prevalent. Generally, anaemia is associated with impaired outcome and need of blood transfusion. Currently, with ICUs working at full capacity and the global blood reserves exhausted, the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic reinforces the need for PBM implementation. For instance, implementation of a comprehensive coagulation management and measures to avoid iatrogenic blood loss may prevent bleeding-associated complications and adherence to blood transfusion guidelines may reduce adverse events associated with transfusion.

SUMMARY

Critically ill patients display various morbidities often requiring individualized treatment. PBM offers patient-centred measures to improve outcome any time during hospital stay.

Viscoelastic Testing and Coagulopathy of Traumatic Brain Injury

A unique coagulopathy often manifests following traumatic brain injury, leading the clinician down a difficult decision path on appropriate prophylaxis and therapy. Conventional coagulation assays—such as prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and international normalized ratio—have historically been utilized to assess hemostasis and guide treatment following traumatic brain injury. However, these plasma-based assays alone often lack the sensitivity to diagnose and adequately treat coagulopathy associated with traumatic brain injury. Here, we review the whole blood coagulation assays termed viscoelastic tests and their use in traumatic brain injury. Modified viscoelastic tests with platelet function assays have helped elucidate the underlying pathophysiology and guide clinical decisions in a goal-directed fashion. Platelet dysfunction appears to underlie most coagulopathies in this patient population, particularly at the adenosine diphosphate and/or arachidonic acid receptors. Future research will focus not only on the utility of viscoelastic tests in diagnosing coagulopathy in traumatic brain injury, but also on better defining the use of these tests as evidence-based and/or precision-based tools to improve patient outcomes.

The Pathophysiology and Management of Hemorrhagic Shock in the Polytrauma Patient

The recognition and management of life-threatening hemorrhage in the polytrauma patient poses several challenges to prehospital rescue personnel and hospital providers. First, identification of acute blood loss and the magnitude of lost volume after torso injury may not be readily apparent in the field. Because of the expression of highly effective physiological mechanisms that compensate for a sudden decrease in circulatory volume, a polytrauma patient with a significant blood loss may appear normal during examination by first responders. Consequently, for every polytrauma victim with a significant mechanism of injury we assume substantial blood loss has occurred and life-threatening hemorrhage is progressing until we can prove the contrary. Second, a decision to begin damage control resuscitation (DCR), a costly, highly complex, and potentially dangerous intervention must often be reached with little time and without sufficient clinical information about the intended recipient. Whether to begin DCR in the prehospital phase remains controversial. Furthermore, DCR executed imperfectly has the potential to worsen serious derangements including acidosis, coagulopathy, and profound homeostatic imbalances that DCR is designed to correct. Additionally, transfusion of large amounts of homologous blood during DCR potentially disrupts immune and inflammatory systems, which may induce severe systemic autoinflammatory disease in the aftermath of DCR. Third, controversy remains over the composition of components that are transfused during DCR. For practical reasons, unmatched liquid plasma or freeze-dried plasma is transfused now more commonly than ABO-matched fresh frozen plasma. Low-titer type O whole blood may prove safer than red cell components, although maintaining an inventory of whole blood for possible massive transfusion during DCR creates significant challenges for blood banks. Lastly, as the primary principle of management of life-threatening hemorrhage is surgical or angiographic control of bleeding, DCR must not eclipse these definitive interventions.