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

Effective use of fibrinogen concentrate in a pediatric splenic injury requiring transcatheter arterial embolization

Correction of coagulation is a crucial aspect of trauma care. While there are reports highlighting the effectiveness of fibrinogen concentrate in severe trauma cases with coagulopathic complications, literature on its use in pediatric cases remains limited. This paper discusses the case of a 5-year-old male presenting with a splenic injury and associated coagulopathy. We administered fibrinogen concentrate to enhance his coagulability prior to performing transcatheter arterial embolization utilizing gelatin sponges, aiming for optimal hemostasis. Post-administration, the patient's fibrinogen levels improved significantly, leading to successful hemostasis and a positive clinical outcome.

Preoperative fibrinogen level predicts the risk and prognosis of patients with native valve infective endocarditis undergoing valve surgery

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the clinical significance and prognostic value of the preoperative fibrinogen (FBG) level in patients with native valve infective endocarditis (NVIE) who underwent valve surgery.

Methods

This retrospective study included a total of 163 consecutive patients who were diagnosed with NVIE and underwent valve surgery from January 2019 to January 2022 in our hospital. The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality.

Results

All-cause mortality was observed in 9.2% of the patients (n = 15). Body mass index (BMI) was lower in the survival group (p = 0.025), whereas FBG (p = 0.008) and platelet count (p = 0.044) were significantly greater in the survival group than in the death group. Multivariate Cox proportional hazards analysis revealed that FBG (HR, 0.55; 95% CI, [0.32-0.94]; p = 0.029) was an independent prognostic factor for all-cause mortality. Furthermore, Kaplan‒Meier survival curve analysis revealed that patients with low FBG levels (<3.28 g/L) had a significantly greater mortality rate (p = 0.034) than did those with high FBG levels (>3.99 g/L). In the trend analysis, the FBG tertiles were significantly related to all-cause mortality in all three adjusted models, and the p values for trend were 0.017, 0.016, and 0.028, respectively.

Conclusion

Preoperative FBG may serve as a prognostic factor for all-cause mortality, and an FBG concentration less than 3.28 g/L was associated with a greater risk of all-cause mortality in NVIE patients undergoing valve surgery.

Linear Correlation Between Mean Arterial Pressure and Urine Output in Critically Ill Patients

OBJECTIVE

Mean arterial pressure (MAP) plays a significant role in regulating tissue perfusion and urine output (UO). The optimal MAP target in critically ill patients remains a subject of debate. We aimed to explore the relationship between MAP and UO.

DESIGN

A retrospective observational study.

SETTING

A general ICU in a tertiary medical center.

PATIENTS

All critically ill patients admitted to the ICU for more than 10 hours.

INTERVENTIONS

None.

MEASUREMENTS AND MAIN RESULTS

MAP values and hourly UO were collected in 5,207 patients. MAP levels were categorized into 10 groups of 5 mm Hg (from MAP < 60 mm Hg to MAP > 100 mg Hg), and 656,423 coupled hourly mean MAP and UO measurements were analyzed. Additionally, we compared the UO of individual patients in each MAP group with or without norepinephrine (NE) support or diuretics, as well as in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI).Hourly UO rose incrementally between MAP values of 65-100 mm Hg. Among 2,226 patients treated with NE infusion, mean UO was significantly lower in the MAP less than 60 mm Hg group (53.4 mL/hr; 95% CI, 49.3-57.5) compared with all other groups (p < 0.001), but no differences were found between groups of 75 less than or equal to MAP. Among 2500 patients with AKI, there was a linear increase in average UO from the MAP less than 60 mm Hg group (57.1 mL/hr; 95% CI, 54.2-60.0) to the group with MAP greater than or equal to 100 mm Hg (89.4 mL/hr; 95% CI, 85.7-93.1). When MAP was greater than or equal to 65 mm Hg, we observed a statistically significant trend of increased UO in periods without NE infusion.

CONCLUSIONS

Our analysis revealed a linear correlation between MAP and UO within the range of 65-100 mm Hg, also observed in the subgroup of patients treated with NE or diuretics and in those with AKI. These findings highlight the importance of tissue perfusion to the maintenance of diuresis and achieving adequate fluid balance in critically ill patients.

Tourniquet application in time-critical aquatic emergencies on a moving rescue water craft (RWC): Can speed and precision coexist?

Lifeguards are the first responders to any type of aquatic incident, including rapid rescue situations such as boating and sporting accidents, animal bites/attacks, and cases involving massive bleeding. In their line of work, rescue boats such as Rescue Water Craft (RWC) are commonly utilized the aim of this study is to evaluate the time and technique of placing a tourniquet on the sled of an RWC navigating at full speed.

METHODS

A randomized crossover study design was used with a sample of 44 lifeguards. The inclusion criteria required that participants be certified lifeguards with experience in RWC operations and possess knowledge of responding to massive bleeding. Two CAT tourniquet placement tests were performed. In the 1) Beach-Tourniquet (B-TQ) test: it was performed on land and in the 2) Rescue Water Craft-tourniquet (RWC-TQ) test, sailing at a cruising speed of 20 knots. The evaluation was recorded in a checklist on the steps and timing of the correct application TQ by direct observation by an expert instructor.

RESULTS

The tourniquet placement on RWC was an average of 11 s slower than when placed on the beach (BT-TQ 35.7 ± 8.0 vs. 46.1 ± 10.9 s, p > 0.001). In the percentage analysis of the results on correct execution of the skills, higher values are obtained for the B-TQ test than in RWC-TQ in Distance to the wound (into 5-7 cm), band adjustment, checking the radial pulse and reporting the time of tourniquet placement (p > 0.005).

CONCLUSION

The placement of a tourniquet on a RWC navigating at 20 knots is feasible, relatively quick, and technically well executed.

Early hypocoagulable state in traumatic brain injury patients: incidence, predisposing factors, and outcomes in a retrospective cohort study

Coagulopathy development in traumatic brain injury (TBI) is among the significant complications that can negatively affect the clinical course and outcome of TBI patients. Timely identification of this complication is of utmost importance in the acute clinical setting. We reviewed TBI patients admitted to our trauma center from 2015 to 2021. Demographic data, mechanism of injury, findings on admission, imaging studies, procedures during hospitalization, and functional outcomes were gathered. INR with a cutoff of 1.3, platelet count less than 100 × 10⁹/L, or partial thromboplastin time greater than 40s were utilized as the markers of coagulopathy. A total of 4002 patients were included. Coagulopathy occurred in 38.1% of the patients. Age of the patients (Odds Ratio (OR) = 0.993, 95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 0.986-0.999, p = 0.028), systolic blood pressure (OR = 0.993, 95% CI = 0.989-0.998, p = 0.005), fibrinogen level (OR = 0.998, 95% CI = 0.996-0.999, p < 0.001), and hemoglobin level (OR = 0.886, 95% CI = 0.839-0.936, p < 0.001) were independently associated with coagulopathy. Furthermore, coagulopathy was independently associated with higher mortality rates and longer ICU stays. Coagulopathy had the most substantial effect on mortality of TBI patients (OR = 2.6, 95% CI = 2.1-3.3, p < 0.001), compared to other admission clinical characteristics independently associated with mortality such as fixed pupillary light reflex (OR = 1.8, 95% CI = 1.5-2.4, p < 0.001), GCS (OR = 0.91, 95% CI = 0.88-0.94, p < 0.001), and hemoglobin level (OR = 0.93, 95% CI = 0.88-0.98, p = 0.004). Early coagulopathy in TBI patients can lead to higher mortality rates. Future studies are needed to prove that early detection and correction of coagulopathy and modifiable risk factors may help improve outcomes of TBI patients.

Unravelling the Antifibrinolytic Mechanism of Action of the 1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives

A new family of antifibrinolytic drugs has been recently discovered, combining a triazole moiety, an oxadiazolone, and a terminal amine. Two of the molecules of this family have shown activity that is greater than or similar to that of tranexamic acid (TXA), the current antifibrinolytic gold standard, which has been associated with several side effects and whose use is limited in patients with renal impairment. The aim of this work was to thoroughly examine the mechanism of action of the two ideal candidates of the 1,2,3-triazole family and compare them with TXA, to identify an antifibrinolytic alternative active at lower dosages. Specifically, the antifibrinolytic activity of the two compounds (1 and 5) and TXA was assessed in fibrinolytic isolated systems and in whole blood. Results revealed that despite having an activity pathway comparable to that of TXA, both compounds showed greater activity in blood. These differences could be attributed to a more stable ligand-target binding to the pocket of plasminogen for compounds 1 and 5, as suggested by molecular dynamic simulations. This work presents further evidence of the antifibrinolytic activity of the two best candidates of the 1,2,3-triazole family and paves the way for incorporating these molecules as new antifibrinolytic therapies.

Damage-control orthopedics or early total care: What you need to know

ABSTRACT

Patients with multisystem injuries are defined as multiply injured patients and may need multiple surgical procedures from more than one specialty. The importance of evaluating and understanding the resuscitation status of a multiple-injury patient is critical. Orthopedic strategies when caring for these patients include temporary stabilization or definitive early fixation of fractures while preventing further insult to other organ systems. This article will define multiple injuries and discuss specific markers used in assessing patients' hemodynamic and resuscitation status. The decision to use damage-control orthopedics or early total care for treatment of the patient are based on these factors, and an algorithm is presented to guide treatment. We will also discuss principles of external fixation and the management of pelvic trauma in a multiple-injury patient.

Recent research advances on polysaccharide-, peptide-, and protein-based hemostatic materials: A review

Hemorrhage is a potentially life-threatening emergency that can occur at any time or place. Whether traumatic, congenital, surgical, disease-related, or drug-induced, bleeding can lead to severe complications or death. Therefore, the development of efficient hemostatic materials is critical. However, the results and prognosis demonstrated by clinical means of hemostasis do not reach expectations. With the development of technology, novel hemostatic materials have been developed from polysaccharides (chitosan, hyaluronic acid, alginate, cellulose, cyclodextrins, starch, dextran, and carrageenan), peptides (self-assembling peptides), and proteins (silk fibroin, collagen, gelatin, keratin, and thrombin). These new materials exhibit high hemostatic efficacy due to the enhancement or interaction of various hemostatic mechanisms. The main forms include adhesives, sealants, bandages, hemostatic powders, and hemostatic sponges. This article introduces the clotting process and principles of hemostatic methods and reviews the research on polysaccharide-, peptide-, and protein-based hemostatic materials in the last five years. The design ideas and hemostatic principles of polysaccharide-, peptide-, and protein-based hemostatic materials are mainly introduced. Finally, we summarize material designs, advantages, disadvantages, and challenges regarding hemostatic materials.

Perioperative Management for Complex Spine Fusion Surgery

Complex spine surgeries performed worldwide continue to increase in number, as do the age and comorbidity of patients undergoing these operations. Perioperative care protocols related to blood management, postoperative pain control, and intraoperative measures to mitigate morbidity may improve clinical workflows and patient outcomes.

Traumatic injuries of the immature hip and pelvis

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

The pelvis and hip account for 0.3--4% of fractures of the immature skeleton, and generally result from high energy trauma. These fractures range in severity from apophyseal avulsions to complete disruptions of the pelvic ring. The purpose of this article is to review the presentation, diagnosis, treatment and complications of these injuries in order to inform clinicians involved in their management. There is a lack of evidence-based management protocols for fractures of the immature pelvis largely due to their rarity and lack of robust scientific literature on the topic.

RECENT FINDINGS

Computed tomography/MRI is essential as up to 30% of pelvis and 70% of acetabular fractures are not identified on initial radiographs. A sub-optimal outcome is common in unstable fractures treated conservatively and adequate reduction and surgical stabilization is often required to avoid long-term morbidity.

SUMMARY

A coordinated approach involves resuscitation and temporary stabilization with planned definitive fixation. It is generally accepted that these injures should be managed in paediatric trauma centres. Whilst injuries vary in pattern and severity, we present an overview that considers the evaluation and treatment of the paediatric patient with pelvic and hip fractures to ensure that these injuries are identified promptly and treated by surgeons familiar with contemporary management algorithms.

Aquatic Feasibility of Limbs Application of Tourniquets (AFLAT) during a Lifeguard Water Rescue: A Simulation Pilot Study

INTRODUCTION

Control of massive hemorrhage (MH) is a life-saving intervention. The use of tourniquets has been studied in prehospital and battlefield settings but not in aquatic environments.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this research is to assess the control of MH in an aquatic environment by analyzing the usability of two tourniquet models with different adjustment mechanisms: windlass rod versus ratchet.

METHODOLOGY

A pilot simulation study was conducted using a randomized crossover design to assess the control of MH resulting from an upper extremity arterial perforation in an aquatic setting. A sample of 24 trained lifeguards performed two randomized tests: one using a windlass-based Combat Application Tourniquet 7 Gen (T-CAT) and the other using a ratchet-based OMNA Marine Tourniquet (T-OMNA) specifically designed for aquatic use on a training arm for hemorrhage control. The tests were conducted after swimming an approximate distance of 100 meters and the tourniquets were applied while in the water. The following parameters were recorded: time of rescue (rescue phases and tourniquet application), perceived fatigue, and technical actions related to tourniquet skills.

RESULTS

With the T-OMNA, 46% of the lifeguards successfully stopped the MH compared to 21% with the T-CAT (P = .015). The approach swim time was 135 seconds with the T-OMNA and 131 seconds with the T-CAT (P = .42). The total time (swim time plus tourniquet placement) was 174 seconds with the T-OMNA and 177 seconds with the T-CAT (P = .55). The adjustment time (from securing the Velcro to completing the manipulation of the windlass or ratchet) for the T-OMNA was faster than with the T-CAT (six seconds versus 19 seconds; P < .001; effect size [ES] = 0.83). The perceived fatigue was high, with a score of seven out of ten in both tests (P = .46).

CONCLUSIONS

Lifeguards in this study demonstrated the ability to use both tourniquets during aquatic rescues under conditions of fatigue. The tourniquet with the ratcheting-fixation system controlled hemorrhage in less time than the windlass rod-based tourniquet, although achieving complete bleeding control had a low success rate.

The genus Balanophora J. R. Forst. & G. Forst. - Its use in traditional medicine, phytochemistry, and pharmacology: A review

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Natural products, particularly medicinal plants, have been utilized in traditional medicine for millennia to treat various diseases. The genus Balanophora (Balanophoraceae) consists of 23 accepted species. These species are the most controversial flowering plants, with highly reduced morphologies and are found parasitizing on the roots of their host. They have been used in traditional medicine as a remedy for stomach pain, detumescence, uterine prolapse, wounds, syphilis, gonorrhea, treating injuries from falls, and other conditions. However, there is no review of this genus on its traditional uses, phytochemistry, and pharmacology.

AIM

The present narrative review discusses the scientific data supporting the traditional uses of Balanophora species. The available information on its botanical properties, traditional uses, chemical contents, pharmacological activities, and toxicity was summarized to help comprehend current research and offer a foundation for future research.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The materials used in combining data on the genus Balanophora comprises online sources such as Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, and Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) for Chinese-related materials. World Flora online was used in validating the scientific names of this genus while ChemBio Draw Ultra Version 22.2 software was employed in drawing the phytochemical compounds.

RESULTS

Nine Balanophora species including B. harlandii, B. japonica, B. polyandra, B. fungosa, B. fungosa subsp. indica, B. laxiflora, B. abbreviata, B. tobiracola, and B. involucrata have been documented as vital sources of traditional medicines in different parts of Asia. A total of 159 secondary metabolites have been isolated and identified from the ten species of this genus comprising tannins, flavonoids, sterols, lignans, chalcones, terpenes, and phenylpropanoids. Among these compounds, tannins, lignans, terpenoids, chalcones and phenolic acids contribute to the pharmacological activities of the species in this genus with several biological activities both in vitro and in vivo such as anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, hypoglycemic activity, cytotoxicity, anti-microbial, melanin synthesis etc. CONCLUSION: This review summarizes the available literature on the traditional uses, pharmacological properties, and phytoconstituents of Balanophora species indicating that they contain fascinating chemical compounds with diverse biological activities. The traditional uses of the species in this genus have been confirmed by scientific data such as antimicrobial, hemostatic effect, gastroprotective activity and others. However, many species in this genus are yet unknown in terms of their botanical uses, chemical composition and biological activities. Thus, more research into the scientific connections between traditional medicinal uses and pharmacological activities, mode of action of the isolated bioactive constituents, and toxicity of other Balanophora species is needed to determine their efficacy and therapeutic potential for safe clinical application.

Desmopressin to reduce periprocedural bleeding and transfusion: a systematic review and meta-analysis

We systematically reviewed the literature to investigate the effects of peri-procedural desmopressin in patients without known inherited bleeding disorders undergoing surgery or other invasive procedures. We included 63 randomized trials (4163 participants) published up to February 1, 2023. Seven trials were published after a 2017 Cochrane systematic review on this topic. There were 38 trials in cardiac surgery, 22 in noncardiac surgery, and 3 in non-surgical procedures. Meta-analyses demonstrated that desmopressin likely does not reduce the risk of receiving a red blood cell transfusion (25 trials, risk ratio [RR] 0.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.86 to 1.05) and may not reduce the risk of reoperation due to bleeding (22 trials, RR 0.75, 95% CI 0.47 to 1.19) when compared to placebo or usual care. However, we demonstrated significant reductions in number of units of red blood cells transfused (25 trials, mean difference -0.55 units, 95% CI - 0.94 to - 0.15), total volume of blood loss (33 trials, standardized mean difference - 0.40 standard deviations; 95% CI - 0.56 to - 0.23), and the risk of bleeding events (2 trials, RR 0.45, 95% CI 0.24 to 0.84). The certainty of evidence of these findings was generally low. Desmopressin increased the risk of clinically significant hypotension that required intervention (19 trials, RR 2.15, 95% CI 1.36 to 3.41). Limited evidence suggests that tranexamic acid is more effective than desmopressin in reducing transfusion risk (3 trials, RR 2.38 favoring tranexamic acid, 95% CI 1.06 to 5.39) and total volume of blood loss (3 trials, mean difference 391.7 mL favoring tranexamic acid, 95% CI - 93.3 to 876.7 mL). No trials directly informed the safety and hemostatic efficacy of desmopressin in advanced kidney disease. In conclusion, desmopressin likely reduces periprocedural blood loss and the number of units of blood transfused in small trials with methodologic limitations. However, the risk of hypotension needs to be mitigated. Large trials should evaluate desmopressin alongside tranexamic acid and enroll patients with advanced kidney disease.

The application of tranexamic acid in respiratory intervention complicated with bleeding

Tranexamic acid (TA) is a well-established antifibrinolytic agent utilized across various medical scenarios to manage bleeding, including surgical, traumatic, postpartum, and upper gastrointestinal bleeding. Despite its widespread application, the systematic evaluation of TA's efficacy in achieving hemostasis during interventional pulmonary procedures remains limited. This review aims to address this gap by examining the utility and effectiveness of TA in promoting hemostasis during pulmonary interventions, encompassing procedures such as bronchial artery embolization, percutaneous lung biopsy, bronchoscopy, and pleural procedures. By synthesizing existing evidence, this review seeks to provide valuable insights into the potential role of TA in mitigating hemorrhage following interventional pulmonary procedures, thereby informing clinical practice and guiding future research endeavors.

Repercussions of the Emergency neurological life support on scientific literature: a bibliometric study

BACKGROUND

 In 2012, the Neurocritical Care Society launched a compilation of protocols regarding the core issues that should be addressed within the first hours of neurological emergencies - the Emergency neurological life support (ENLS).

OBJECTIVE

 We aim to evaluate this repercussion through a bibliometric analysis.

METHODS

 We searched Scopus on October 2022 for articles mentioning ENLS. The following variables were obtained: number of citations; number of citations per year; number of publications per year; year of publication; research type; research subtype; country of corresponding author and its income category and world region; journal of publication and its 5-year impact factor (IF); and section where ENLS appeared.

RESULTS

 After applying eligibility criteria, we retrieved 421 articles, published from 2012 to 2022. The mean number of citations per article was 17.46 (95% Confidence Interval (CI) = 8.20-26.72), while the mean number of citations per year per article was 4.05 (95% CI = 2.50-5.61). The mean destiny journal 5-year IF was 5.141 (95% CI = 4.189-6.093). The majority of articles were secondary research (57.48%; n = 242/421) of which most were narrative reviews (71.90%; n = 174/242). High-Income countries were the most prominent (80.05%; n = 337/421 articles). There were no papers from low-income countries. There were no trials or systematic reviews from middle-income countries.

CONCLUSION

 Although still low, the number of publications mentioning ENLS is increasing. Articles were mainly published in journals of intensive care medicine, neurology, neurosurgery, and emergency medicine. Most articles were published by authors from high-income countries. The majority of papers were secondary research, with narrative review as the most frequent subtype.

The effect of tranexamic acid on synovium of patients undergoing arthroplasty and anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction surgery

Preoperative hemorrhage can be reduced using anti-fibrinolytic medicine tranexamic acid (TXA). During surgical procedures, local administration is being used more and more frequently, either as an intra-articular infusion or as a perioperative rinse. Serious harm to adult soft tissues can be detrimental to the individual since they possess a weak ability for regeneration. Synovial tissues and primary fibroblast-like synoviocytes (FLS) isolated from patients were examined using TXA treatment in this investigation. FLS is obtained from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), osteoarthritis (OA), and anterior cruciate ligament (ACL)-ruptured patients. The in vitro effect of TXA on primary FLS was investigated using 3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell viability assays for cell death, annexin V/propidium iodide (PI) staining for apoptotic rate, real-time PCR for p65 and MMP-3 expression, and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for IL-6 measurement. MTT assays revealed a significant decrease in cell viability in FLS of all groups of patients following treatment with 0.8-60 mg/ml of TXA within 24 h. There was a significant increase in cell apoptosis after 24 h of exposure to TXA (15 mg/ml) in all groups, especially in RA-FLS. TXA increases the expression of MMP-3 and p65 expression. There was no significant change in IL-6 production after TXA treatment. An increase in receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-Β ligand (RANK-L) production was seen only in RA-FLS. This study demonstrates that TXA caused significant synovial tissue toxicity via the increase in cell death and elevation of inflammatory and invasive gene expression in FLS cells.

Influence of blood hemodynamics on the treatment outcomes of limited fluid resuscitation in emergency patients with traumatic hemorrhagic shock

OBJECTIVES

Traumatic hemorrhagic shock is a major death-related factor contributing to mortality in emergencies and can be effectively handled by the Limited Fluid Resuscitation (LFR) method. In the current investigation, the authors analyzed the influence of different administrating blood pressure on the treatment outcomes of LFR.

METHODS

276 participants were enrolled in the current study retrospectively from January 2016 to December 2021 and were divided into three groups based on the administrating blood pressure of LFR. The difference among the three groups regarding serum levels of cytokines as well as blood hemodynamics parameters was analyzed.

RESULTS

The results showed after the T2 stage treatment, cytokine levels in the three groups were all significantly influenced by different LFR strategies with medium MAP showing the strongest effects on the expression of all cytokine genes. Moreover, the MAP value was in positive correlation with IL-6, IL-10, and TNF-α levels, but showed no clear relation with IL-4 level in all three groups. Regarding the effects on hemodynamics parameters, the levels of CVP, CO, and CI were slightly increased by the different LFR administrating strategies, and the effect of medium and high MAP was statistically stronger than that of low MAP.

CONCLUSION

The present results showed that LFR would influence serum inflammatory levels by improving blood hemodynamics parameters. Medium MAP showed the strongest improving effects with the least side effects, which can be employed as the optimal administrating strategy for LFR in the future.

Effectiveness of tranexamic acid in orthognathic surgery: A systematic review of systematic reviews

PURPOSE

This study aimed to review the currently available evidence on the effectiveness of administering tranexamic acid (TXA) to patients undergoing orthognathic surgery.

METHODS

A study protocol was developed in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Guideline for Overviews of Reviews (PRIOR) and registered on the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) under Registration No. CRD42021232931. Furthermore, the reporting of the present systematic review was performed based on the PRISMA checklist.

RESULTS

The search strategy yielded a total of 50 articles. After reading the abstracts, 28 articles were excluded, and the English full texts of the remaining 22 studies were separately examined for eligibility by two authors; 15 articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Finally, seven systematic reviews and meta-analysis satisfied the criteria for inclusion and were processed for critical review evaluation.

CONCLUSIONS

Within the limits of the present study and the reviews of the 7 articles included, it is observed that TXA is able to reduce the amount of intraoperative blood loss and the amount of irrigation fluids required. However, it does not influence postoperative levels of hemoglobin or hematocrit, nor does it affect the requirement for blood transfusions. It was interestingly discovered that TXA could increase the quality of the surgical site. These data imply that TXA may be an effective adjuvant in lowering bleeding during orthognathic surgery. As a result, the potential risk of problems related with considerable blood loss may be minimized.

Positive single-center randomized trials and subsequent multicenter randomized trials in critically ill patients: a systematic review

BACKGROUND

It is unclear how often survival benefits observed in single-center randomized controlled trials (sRCTs) involving critically ill patients are confirmed by subsequent multicenter randomized controlled trials (mRCTs). We aimed to perform a systemic literature review of sRCTs with a statistically significant mortality reduction and to evaluate whether subsequent mRCTs confirmed such reduction.

METHODS

We searched PubMed for sRCTs published in the New England Journal of Medicine, JAMA, or Lancet, from inception until December 31, 2016. We selected studies reporting a statistically significant mortality decrease using any intervention (drug, technique, or strategy) in adult critically ill patients. We then searched for subsequent mRCTs addressing the same research question tested by the sRCT. We compared the concordance of results between sRCTs and mRCTs when any mRCT was available. We registered this systematic review in the PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CRD42023455362).

RESULTS

We identified 19 sRCTs reporting a significant mortality reduction in adult critically ill patients. For 16 sRCTs, we identified at least one subsequent mRCT (24 trials in total), while the interventions from three sRCTs have not yet been addressed in a subsequent mRCT. Only one out of 16 sRCTs (6%) was followed by a mRCT replicating a significant mortality reduction; 14 (88%) were followed by mRCTs with no mortality difference. The positive finding of one sRCT (6%) on intensive glycemic control was contradicted by a subsequent mRCT showing a significant mortality increase. Of the 14 sRCTs referenced at least once in international guidelines, six (43%) have since been either removed or suggested against in the most recent versions of relevant guidelines.

CONCLUSION

Mortality reduction shown by sRCTs is typically not replicated by mRCTs. The findings of sRCTs should be considered hypothesis-generating and should not contribute to guidelines.

The Role for Preperitoneal Pelvic Packing in Low-to-Middle-Income Countries: A 16-Year Experience at a Johannesburg Trauma Unit

INTRODUCTION

Preperitoneal pelvic packing for early pelvic haemorrhage control reduces mortality. Bleeding noted with pelvis fractures is predominantly due to associated venous complex injuries. More studies are advocating for angiography as first-line therapy for haemodynamic instability in pelvic fractures; however, these facilities are not in abundance in middle- and low-income countries. We hypothesized that PPP improves outcomes under these circumstances.

METHODS

Retrospective analysis of data from the patients charts over a period of 16 years from 01 January, 2005 to 31 December, 2020. All patients over the age of 18 years who presented with haemodynamic instability from a pelvic fracture and required PPP were included. The demographics, physiological parameter in emergency department, blood products transfused, morbidity and mortality were analysed.

RESULTS

There were 110 patients identified in the study period who underwent pelvic preperitoneal packing for refractory shock or ongoing bleeding. The majority (75.5%) of patients were men (n = 83). The median age was 38 years. The most common mechanism of injury was pedestrian vehicle collision (51%), followed by motor vehicle collisions (27.3%). The median ISS and NISS were 35 and 40, respectively. The median RTS in ED was 4.8(3-6.8). None of our patients rebleed after pack removal and no one needed repacking or adjunct angioembolization in our study group. The in-hospital mortality rate was 43.6% (n = 48) in patients who underwent preperitoneal pelvic packing. The operating room table mortality was 20% (n = 22/110), and the mortality rate of those who survived to ICU transfer was 29.5% (n = 26/88).

CONCLUSIONS

Pelvic preperitoneal packing has a role in the acute management of haemodynamically abnormal patients with pelvic fractures in our environment. In the absence of immediate angioembolization, preperitoneal packing can be lifesaving.

Limb salvage in traumatic hemipelvectomy: case series with surgical management and review of the literature

BACKGROUND

Traumatic hemipelvectomies are rare and serious injuries. The surgical management was described in several case studies, with primary amputation often performed to save the patient's life.

METHODS

We report of two survivors with complete traumatic hemipelvectomy resulting in ischemia and paralyzed lower extremity. Due to modern emergency medicine and reconstructive surgery, limb salvage could be attained. Long-term outcome with quality of life was assessed one year after the initial accident.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

The patients were able to mobilize themselves and live an independent life. The extremities remained without function and sensation. Urinary continence and sexual function were present and the colostomy could be relocated in both patients. Both patients support limb salvage, even having difficulties and follow-up treatments. Concomitant cases are required to consolidate the findings.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

IV.

What is the best way to keep the patient warm during technical rescue? Results from two prospective randomised controlled studies with healthy volunteers

BACKGROUND

Accidental hypothermia is a manifest problem during the rescue of entrapped victims and results in different subsequent problems as coagulopathy and wound infection. Different warming methods are available for the preclinicial use. However, their effectiveness has hardly been evaluated.

METHODS

In a first step a survey among German fire brigades was performed with questions about the most used warming methods. In a second step two crossover studies were conducted. In each study two different warming method were compared with forced air warming - which is the most frequently used and highly effective warming method in operation rooms (Study A: halogen floodlight vs. forced air warming; Study B: forced air warming vs. fleece blanket). In both studies healthy volunteers (Study A: 30 volunteers, Study B: 32 volunteers) were sitting 60 min in a cold store. In the first 21 min there was no subject warming. Afterwards the different warming methods were initiated. Every 3 min parameters like skin temperature, core body temperature and cold perception on a 10-point numeric rating scale were recorded. Linear mixed models were fitted for each parameter to check for differences in temperature trajectories and cold perception with regard to the different warming methods.

RESULTS

One hundred fifty-one German fire brigades responded to the survey. The most frequently used warming methods were different rescue blankets (gold/silver, wool) and work light (halogen floodlights). Both studies (A and B) showed significantly (p < 0.05) higher values in mean skin temperature, mean body temperature and total body heat for the forced air warming methods compared to halogen floodlight respectively fleece blanket shortly after warming initiation. In contrast, values for the cold perception were significantly lower (less unpleasant cold perception) during the phase the forced air warming methods were used, compared to the fleece blanket or the halogen floodlight was used.

CONCLUSION

Forced air warming methods used under the standardised experimental setting are an effective method to keep patients warm during technical rescue. Halogen floodlight has an insufficient effect on the patient's heat preservation. In healthy subjects, fleece blankets will stop heat loss but will not correct heat that has already been lost.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

The studies were registered retrospectively on 14/02/2022 on the German Clinical Trials registry (DRKS) with the number DRKS00028079.

Serum lactate and the mortality of critically ill patients in the emergency department: A retrospective study

Serum lactate levels have been widely studied as a prognostic marker in critically ill patients, particularly those in the intensive care unit. However, it remains unknown whether the serum lactate levels affect the mortality rate of critically ill patients admitted to hospital. To investigate this hypothesis, the vital signs and blood gas analysis data of 1,393 critically ill patients who visited the Emergency Department of Affiliated Kunshan Hospital of Jiangsu University (Kunshan, China) between January and December 2021 were collected. Patients were divided into two groups, 30-day survival group and a 30-day death group, and logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the association between vital signs, laboratory results and mortality rates of critically ill patients. A total of 1,393 critically ill patients was enrolled in the present study, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.17:1.00, a mean age of 67.72±19.29 years and a mortality rate of 11.6%. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that increased serum lactate levels were an independent risk factor for mortality rate of critically ill patients [Odds ratio (OR)=1.50, 95% confidence interval (95% CI): 1.40-1.62]. The critical cut-off value for the serum lactate levels was identified as 2.35 mmol/l. In addition, OR values of age, heart rate, systolic blood pressure, transcutaneous oxygen saturation (SpO₂) and hemoglobin were 1.02, 1.01, 0.99, 0.96 and 0.99, respectively (95% CI: 1.01-1.04, 1.00-1.02, 0.98-0.99, 0.94-0.98 and 0.98-1.00, respectively). The logistic regression model was found to be of value in terms of identifying the mortality rate of patients and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve was 0.894 (95% CI: 0.863-0.925; P<0.001). In conclusion, the present study showed that high serum lactate levels in critically ill patients upon admission to hospital are associated with higher 30-day mortality rate.

Layered Double Hydroxides: A Novel Promising 2D Nanomaterial for Bone Diseases Treatment

Bone diseases including bone defects, bone infections, osteoarthritis, and bone tumors seriously affect life quality of the patient and bring serious economic burdens to social health management, for which the current clinical treatments bear dissatisfactory therapeutic effects. Biomaterial-based strategies have been widely applied in the treatment of orthopedic diseases but are still plagued by deficient bioreactivity. With the development of nanotechnology, layered double hydroxides (LDHs) with adjustable metal ion composition and alterable interlayer structure possessing charming physicochemical characteristics, versatile bioactive properties, and excellent drug loading and delivery capabilities arise widespread attention and have achieved considerable achievements for bone disease treatment in the last decade. However, to the authors' best knowledge, no review has comprehensively summarized the advances of LDHs in treating bone disease so far. Herein, the advantages of LDHs for orthopedic disorders treatment are outlined and the corresponding state-of-the-art achievements are summarized for the first time. The potential of LDHs-based nanocomposites for extended therapeutics for bone diseases is highlighted and perspectives for LDHs-based scaffold design are proposed for facilitated clinical translation.

The impact of time to hemostatic intervention and delayed care for patients with traumatic hemorrhage: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Uncontrolled bleeding is a common cause of preventable mortality in trauma. While it is intuitive that delays to hemostasis may lead to worse outcomes, the impacts of these delays remain incompletely explored. This systematic review aimed to characterize the extant definitions of delayed hemostatic intervention and to quantify the impacts of delays on clinical outcomes.

METHODS

We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, and Web of Science from inception to August 2022. Studies defining "delayed intervention" and those comparing times to intervention among adults presenting to hospital with blunt or penetrating injuries who required major hemostatic intervention were eligible. The coprimary outcomes were mortality and the definition of delay to hemostasis used. Secondary outcomes included units of packed red blood cells received, length of stay in hospital, and length of stay in intensive care.

RESULTS

We identified 2,050 studies, with 24 studies including 10,168 patients meeting the inclusion criteria. The majority of studies were retrospective observational cohort studies, and most were at high risk of bias. A variety of injury patterns and hemostatic interventions were considered, with 69.6% of studies reporting a statistically significant impact of increased time to intervention on mortality. Definitions of delayed intervention ranged from 10 minutes to 4 hours. Conflicting data were reported for impact of time on receipt of blood products, while one study found a significant impact on intensive care length of stay. No studies assessed length of stay in hospital.

CONCLUSION

The extant literature is heterogeneous with respect to injuries included, methods of hemostasis employed, and durations of delay examined. While the majority of the included studies demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between time to intervention and mortality, an evidence-informed definition of delayed intervention for bleeding trauma patients at large has not been solidified. In addition, standardized research is needed to establish targets, which could reduce morbidity and mortality.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Systematic Review; Level IV.

Team Approach: The Unstable Trauma Patient

» A multidisciplinary, integrated, and synergistic team approach to the unstable polytrauma patient is critical to optimize outcomes, minimize morbidity, and reduce mortality.» The use of Advanced Trauma Life Support protocols helps standardize the assessment and avoid missing critical injuries» Effective and open dialog with consulting specialists is paramount for effective team-based care.» Orthopaedic surgeons should play an important role in the rapid assessment of potentially life-threatening and/or limb-threatening injuries including pelvic ring disruption, open fractures with substantial blood loss, and dysvascular limbs.

Systemic hemostatic agents initiated in trauma patients in the pre-hospital setting: a systematic review

PURPOSE

The effect of systemic hemostatic agents initiated during pre-hospital care of severely injured patients with ongoing bleeding or traumatic brain injury (TBI) remains controversial. A systematic review and meta-analysis was therefore conducted to assess the effectiveness and safety of systemic hemostatic agents as an adjunctive therapy in people with major trauma and hemorrhage or TBI in the context of developing the Italian National Institute of Health guidelines on major trauma integrated management.

METHODS

PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases were searched up to October 2021 for studies that investigated pre-hospital initiated treatment with systemic hemostatic agents. The certainty of evidence was evaluated with the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation approach, and the quality of each study was determined with the Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The primary outcome was overall mortality, and secondary outcomes included cause-specific mortality, health-related quality of life, any adverse effects and blood product use, hemorrhage expansion, and patient-reported outcomes.

RESULTS

Five trials of tranexamic acid (TXA) met the inclusion criteria for this meta-analysis. With a high certainty of evidence, when compared to placebo TXA reduced mortality at 24 h (relative risk = 0.83, 95% confidence interval = 0.73-0.94) and at 1 month among trauma patients (0.91, 0.85-0.97). These results depend on the subgroup of patients with significant hemorrhage because in the subgroup of TBI there are no difference between TXA and placebo. TXA also reduced bleeding death and multiple organ failure whereas no difference in health-related quality of life.

CONCLUSION

Balancing benefits and harms, TXA initiated in the pre-hospital setting can be used for patients experiencing major trauma with significant hemorrhage since it reduces the risk of mortality at 24 h and one month with no difference in terms of adverse effects when compared to placebo. Considering the subgroup of severe TBI, no difference in mortality rate was found at 24 h and one month. These results highlight the need to conduct future studies to investigate the role of other systemic hemostatic agents in the pre-hospital settings.

Efficacy and Safety of Early Administration of 4-Factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate in Patients With Trauma at Risk of Massive Transfusion: The PROCOAG Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Optimal transfusion strategies in traumatic hemorrhage are unknown. Reports suggest a beneficial effect of 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC) on blood product consumption.

Objective

To investigate the efficacy and safety of 4F-PCC administration in patients at risk of massive transfusion.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled superiority trial in 12 French designated level I trauma centers from December 29, 2017, to August 31, 2021, involving consecutive patients with trauma at risk of massive transfusion. Follow-up was completed on August 31, 2021.

Interventions

Intravenous administration of 1 mL/kg of 4F-PCC (25 IU of factor IX/kg) vs 1 mL/kg of saline solution (placebo). Patients, investigators, and data analysts were blinded to treatment assignment. All patients received early ratio-based transfusion (packed red blood cells:fresh frozen plasma ratio of 1:1 to 2:1) and were treated according to European traumatic hemorrhage guidelines.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was 24-hour all blood product consumption (efficacy); arterial or venous thromboembolic events were a secondary outcome (safety).

Results

Of 4313 patients with the highest trauma level activation, 350 were eligible for emergency inclusion, 327 were randomized, and 324 were analyzed (164 in the 4F-PCC group and 160 in the placebo group). The median (IQR) age of participants was 39 (27-56) years, Injury Severity Score was 36 (26-50 [major trauma]), and admission blood lactate level was 4.6 (2.8-7.4) mmol/L; prehospital arterial systolic blood pressure was less than 90 mm Hg in 179 of 324 patients (59%), 233 patients (73%) were men, and 226 (69%) required expedient hemorrhage control. There was no statistically or clinically significant between-group difference in median (IQR) total 24-hour blood product consumption (12 [5-19] U in the 4F-PCC group vs 11 [6-19] U in the placebo group; absolute difference, 0.2 U [95% CI, -2.99 to 3.33]; P = .72). In the 4F-PCC group, 56 patients (35%) presented with at least 1 thromboembolic event vs 37 patients (24%) in the placebo group (absolute difference, 11% [95% CI, 1%-21%]; relative risk, 1.48 [95% CI, 1.04-2.10]; P = .03).

Conclusions and Relevance

Among patients with trauma at risk of massive transfusion, there was no significant reduction of 24-hour blood product consumption after administration of 4F-PCC, but thromboembolic events were more common. These findings do not support systematic use of 4F-PCC in patients at risk of massive transfusion.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03218722.

The qLabs® FIB system, a novel point-of-care technology for a rapid and accurate quantification of functional fibrinogen concentration from a single drop of citrated whole blood

Hypofibrinogenemia is often associated with excessive bleeding and requires immediate treatment. The qLabs FIB® is a handheld and easy-to-use point-of-care (POC) device designed for the rapid measurement of functional fibrinogen concentration from a single drop of citrated whole blood. The aim of this study was to evaluate the analytical performances of the qLabs FIB system. Fibrinogen concentrations from 110 citrated whole blood specimen were measured by both the qLabs FIB and the Clauss laboratory reference methods (STA®-Liquid Fib assay on STA-R® Max from Stago). A three-laboratories comparison study was conducted to assess reproducibility and repeatability of the qLabs FIB using plasma quality control material. In addition, single-site assays were conducted to assess the repeatability from citrated whole blood specimen covering the qLabs FIB reportable range. A very strong correlation between the qLabs FIB and the Clauss laboratory reference method was observed (r = 0.95). Using a clinical cut-off value of 2.0 g/L, the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) of citrated whole blood was 0.99 and sensibility and specificity were 100 % and 93.5 %, respectively. Percent CVs for reproducibility and repeatability assessed from quality control material, were both <5 %. Repeatability assessed from citrated whole blood specimen showed a CV of 2.6 to 6.5 %. In conclusion, the qLabs FIB system enables a rapid and reliable measurement of functional fibrinogen levels from citrated whole blood and exhibits a strong prediction power at the 2 g/L clinical cut-off when compared to the Clauss laboratory reference. Further clinical studies should demonstrate its ability to quickly confirm the diagnosis of acquired hypofibrinogenemia and help identify patients who may benefit from targeted hemostatic treatment.

Effects of Serum Fibrinogen Correction on Outcome of Traumatic Cranial Surgery; A Randomized, Single-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Clinical Trial

BACKGROUND

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is strongly associated with coagulopathy that occurs in 25-35% of patients. This complication is linked to higher mortality and morbidity. Recent lines of evidance have supported administration of fibrinogen concentrate (FC) in patients with severe TBI, while its efficacy remains controversial. In this study we aim to evaluate the effectiveness of serum fibrinogen level correction from 1.5 and 2.0 g/l to more than 2.0 g/l in patients with severe TBI undergoing traumatic cranial surgery.

METHOD

This randomized, single-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial included trauma patients who had abbreviated injury scale (AIS) more than 3 in head and below 3 in other organs. FC was administered intravenously to patients with severe TBI undergoing TBI to correct the fibrinogen level above 2 g/l. Patients were randomly assigned to FC and control groups. The amount of intra-operative blood loss, packed cell (PC) transfusion, formation of new intracranial hemorrhage, and hemovac drainage were compared between the two study groups.

RESULTS

Forty-seven of 65 participants received the study intervention within 40-112 min of admission. Intra-operative PC transfusion was higher in FC group (80%) compared to control group (55.5%) while the differance was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Intra-operative blood loss was significantly higher in control group than FC group (P = 0.036). Chance of re-operation and new intracranial hematoma were not significantly different between two study groups.

CONCLUSION

Early delivery of FC, decreases intraoperative bleeding. Although based on our findings it has no other effect on other parameters, further multicenter studies are recommended to investigate the role of early FC administration in management of post traumatic coagulopathy.

Emergency administration of fibrinogen concentrate for haemorrhage: systematic review and meta-analysis

INTRODUCTION

The occurrence of massive haemorrhages in various emergency situations increases the need for blood transfusions and increases the risk of mortality. Fibrinogen concentrate (FC) use may increase plasma fibrinogen levels more rapidly than fresh-frozen product or cryoprecipitate use. Previous several systematic reviews and meta-analyses have not effectively demonstrated FC efficacy in significantly improving the risk of mortality and reducing transfusion requirements. In this study, we investigated the use of FC for haemorrhages in emergency situations.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

In this systematic review and meta-analysis, we included controlled trials, but excluded randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in elective surgeries. The study population consisted of patients with haemorrhages in emergency situations, and the intervention was emergency supplementation of FC. The control group was administered with ordinal transfusion or placebo. The primary and secondary outcomes were in-hospital mortality and the amount of transfusion and thrombotic events, respectively. The electronic databases searched included MEDLINE (PubMed), Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials.

RESULTS

Nine RCTs in the qualitative synthesis with a total of 701 patients were included. Results showed a slight increase in in-hospital mortality with FC treatment (RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.64-2.39, p = 0.52) with very low certainty of the evidence. There was no reduction in the use of red blood cells (RBC) transfusion in the first 24 h after admission with FC treatment (mean difference [MD] 0.0 Unit in the FC group, 95% CI - 0.99-0.98, p = 0.99) with very low certainty of the evidence. However, the use of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) transfusion significantly increased in the first 24 h after admission with FC treatment (MD 2.61 Unit higher in the FC group, 95% CI 0.07-5.16, p = 0.04). The occurrence of thrombotic events did not significantly differ with FC treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study indicates that the use of FC may result in a slight increase in in-hospital mortality. While FC did not appear to reduce the use of RBC transfusion, it likely increased the use of FFP transfusion and may result in a large increase in platelet concentrate transfusion. However, the results should be interpreted cautiously due to the unbalanced severity in the patient population, high heterogeneity, and risk of bias.

Correction of haemorrhagic shock-associated coagulopathy and impaired haemostasis by plasma, prothrombin complex concentrates or an activated protein C-targeted DNA aptamer in mice

Even with extensive transfusion support, trauma-induced bleeding often leads to death. Early intervention may improve outcomes, yet which blood products, factor concentrates, or other drugs constitute optimal treatment is unclear. Patients with acute traumatic coagulopathy (ATC), arising from trauma and haemorrhagic shock, have the worst prognosis. Here, multiple interventions were compared in a mouse model of ATC. After the trauma of tissue excision, anaesthetized mice were bled to 35 mm Hg mean arterial pressure, maintained under shock for 60 min, and resuscitated with fluids equal in volume to the shed blood. Resuscitated mice were subjected to liver laceration to test haemostasis and blood loss was quantified. Saline-treated mice lost two- to three-fold more blood than sham-treated animals and were coagulopathic by prothrombin time elevation post- versus pre-procedure. Murine fresh-frozen plasma (mFFP), anti-activated protein C aptamer HS02-52G, or prothrombin complex concentrates eliminated the bleeding diathesis and coagulopathy; fibrinogen, plasminogen activator inhibitor-1, or tranexamic acid ameliorated bleeding or coagulopathy, but not both. HS02-52G and mFFP also eliminated the changes in plasma aPC and tissue plasminogen activator levels observed in saline-treated mice, as judged via microtiter plate biomarker assays. Procoagulant interventions, especially inhibiting aPC, could be beneficial in human ATC.

Peripheral Microneedle Patch for First-Aid Hemostasis

Despite the minimized puncture sizes and high efficiency, microneedle (MN) patches have not been used to inject hemostatic drugs into bleeding wounds because they easily destroy capillaries when a tissue is pierced. In this study, a shelf-stable dissolving MN patch is developed to prevent rebleeding during an emergency treatment. A minimally and site-selectively invasive hemostatic drug delivery system is established by using a peripheral MN (p-MN) patch that does not directly intrude the wound site but enables topical drug absorption in the damaged capillaries. The invasiveness of MNs is histologically examined by using a bleeding liver of a Sprague-Dawley (SD) rat as an extreme wound model in vivo. The skin penetration force is quantified to demonstrate that the administration of the p-MN patch is milder than that of the conventional MN patch. Hemostatic performance is systematically studied by analyzing bleeding weight and time and comparing them with that of conventional hemostasis methods. The superior performance of a p-MN for the heparin-pretreated SD rat model is demonstrated by intravenous injection in vivo.

Shock Index for Early Detection of Low Plasma Fibrinogen in Trauma: A Prospective Observational Cohort Pilot Study

Shock index (a ratio between heart rate and systolic blood pressure) predicts transfusion requirements and the need for haemostatic resuscitation in severe trauma patients. In the present study, we aimed to determine whether prehospital and on-admission shock index values can be used to predict low plasma fibrinogen in trauma patients. Between January 2016 and February 2017, trauma patients admitted from the helicopter emergency medical service into two large trauma centres in the Czech Republic were prospectively assessed for demographic, laboratory and trauma-associated variables and shock index at scene, during transport and at admission to the emergency department. Hypofibrinogenemia defined as fibrinogen plasma level of 1.5 g·L^-l was deemed as a cut-off for further analysis. Three hundred and twenty-two patients were screened for eligibility. Of these, 264 (83%) were included for further analysis. The hypofibrinogenemia was predicted by the worst prehospital shock index with the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) of 0.79 (95% CI 0.64-0.91) and by the admission shock index with AUROC of 0.79 (95% CI 0.66-0.91). For predicting hypofibrinogenemia, the prehospital shock index ≥ 1 has 0.5 sensitivity (95% CI 0.19-0.81), 0.88 specificity (95% CI 0.83-0.92) and a negative predictive value of 0.98 (0.96-0.99). The shock index may help to identify trauma patients at risk of hypofibrinogenemia early in the prehospital course.

Impact of the implementation of a trauma system on compliance with evidence-based clinical management guidelines in penetrating thoracic trauma

PURPOSE

Since 2014, a trauma system (TS) for the Provence-Alpes-Cote-d'Azur (PACA) region has been set up with protocols based on the European guidelines for the management of bleeding trauma patients. The present study aims to assess compliance with protocols in penetrating thoracic trauma on admission to a level I trauma centre and to determine whether compliance impacts morbidity and mortality.

METHODS

This multicentric pre-post study included all penetrating thoracic trauma patients referred to Marseille area level I centres between January 2009 and December 2019. On the basis of the European guidelines, eight objectively measurable recommendations concerning the in-hospital trauma care for the first 24 h were analysed. Per-patient and per-criterion compliance rates and their impact on morbidity and mortality were evaluated before and after TS implementation.

RESULTS

A total of 426 patients were included. No differences between the two groups (before and after 2014) were reported for demographics or injury severity. The median (interquartile range) per-patient compliance rate increased from 67% [0.50; 0.75] to 75% [0.67; 1.0] (p < 0.01) after implementation of a TS. The 30-day morbidity-mortality was, respectively, of 17% (30/173) and 13% (32/253) (p = 0.18) before and after TS implementation. A low per-patient compliance rate was associated with an increase in the 30-day morbidity-mortality rate (p < 0.01). Severity score-adjusted per-patient compliance rates were associated with decreased 30-day morbidity-mortality (odds ratio [IC 95%] = 0.98 [0.97; 0.99] p = 0.01).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of a TS was associated with better compliance to European recommendations and better outcomes for severe trauma patients. These findings should encourage strict adherence to European trauma protocols to ensure the best patient outcomes.

Use of Bayesian Statistics to Reanalyze Data From the Pragmatic Randomized Optimal Platelet and Plasma Ratios Trial

IMPORTANCE

Frequentist statistical approaches are the most common strategies for clinical trial design; however, bayesian trial design may provide a more optimal study technique for trauma-related studies.

OBJECTIVE

To describe the outcomes of bayesian statistical approaches using data from the Pragmatic Randomized Optimal Platelet and Plasma Ratios (PROPPR) Trial.

DESIGN, SETTING, AND PARTICIPANTS

This quality improvement study performed a post hoc bayesian analysis of the PROPPR Trial using multiple hierarchical models to assess the association of resuscitation strategy with mortality. The PROPPR Trial took place at 12 US level I trauma centers from August 2012 to December 2013. A total of 680 severely injured trauma patients who were anticipated to require large volume transfusions were included in the study. Data analysis for this quality improvement study was conducted from December 2021 and June 2022.

INTERVENTIONS

In the PROPPR Trial, patients were randomized to receive a balanced transfusion (equal portions of plasma, platelets, and red blood cells [1:1:1]) vs a red blood cell-heavy strategy (1:1:2) during their initial resuscitation.

MAIN OUTCOMES AND MEASURES

Primary outcomes from the PROPPR trial included 24-hour and 30-day all-cause mortality using frequentist statistical methods. Bayesian methods were used to define the posterior probabilities associated with the resuscitation strategies at each of the original primary end points.

RESULTS

Overall, 680 patients (546 [80.3%] male; median [IQR] age, 34 [24-51] years, 330 [48.5%] with penetrating injury; median [IQR] Injury Severity Score, 26 [17-41]; 591 [87.0%] with severe hemorrhage) were included in the original PROPPR Trial. Between the groups, no significant differences in mortality were originally detected at 24 hours (12.7% vs 17.0%; adjusted risk ratio [RR], 0.75 [95% CI, 0.52-1.08]; P = .12) or 30 days (22.4% vs 26.1%; adjusted RR, 0.86 [95% CI, 0.65-1.12]; P = .26). Using bayesian approaches, a 1:1:1 resuscitation was found to have a 93% (Bayes factor, 13.7; RR, 0.75 [95% credible interval, 0.45-1.11]) and 87% (Bayes factor, 6.56; RR, 0.82 [95% credible interval, 0.57-1.16]) probability of being superior to a 1:1:2 resuscitation with regards to 24-hour and 30-day mortality, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS AND RELEVANCE

In this quality improvement study, a post hoc bayesian analysis of the PROPPR Trial found evidence in support of mortality reduction with a balanced resuscitation strategy for patients in hemorrhagic shock. Bayesian statistical methods offer probability-based results capable of direct comparison between various interventions and should be considered for future studies assessing trauma-related outcomes.

A 36-Year-Old Woman with Acute Liver Failure Following Acetaminophen Overdose, Raised INR of 8.7, and Normal Blood Viscosity Measured by Rotational Thromboelastometry (ROTEM)

BACKGROUND Fulminant hepatic failure (FHF) is commonly associated with elevated prothrombin time (PT) and international normalized ratio (INR). There is a commensurate decline in pro- and anti-hemostatic factors, and hemostatic function is rebalanced, not reflected in INR. This report presents the case of a 36-year-old woman with FHF following acetaminophen overdose, an increased INR above 8.7, and normal blood viscosity measured by rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM). CASE REPORT A 36-year-old woman presented with FHF following an acetaminophen overdose. On arrival, she was lethargic but arousable and followed commands. Her King's College Criteria for acetaminophen toxicity was 2 and her MELD score was 36. Her INR was unmeasurably high (>8.7). To evaluate whole-blood coagulation, a ROTEM analysis was performed. All parameters (CT, CFT, alpha-angle, A10, MCF) of the NATEM were within reference range. Despite the normal ROTEM, spontaneous bleeding was a concern. The patient received 5 units of cryoprecipitate and 9 units of FFP prior to a central venous line placement. She was started on molecular adsorbent recirculating system and continuous veno-venous hemodialysis, but died on day 7. CONCLUSIONS Patients with FHF can have normal whole-blood coagulation based on ROTEM even if INR levels are unmeasurably high. Viscoelastic tests such as ROTEM, which assesses whole-blood coagulation properties, are preferrable for coagulation monitoring in these patients. Blood product transfusion to correct coagulation abnormality, like FFP and cryoprecipitate, may be used based on the result of viscoelastic testing over conventional coagulation testing.

Comparative study of predisposition to thrombosis with administration of known systemic hemostatic agents and fibrin monomer in the experiment

Aim. To compare predisposition to thrombosis caused by administration of known systemic hemostatic agents and fibrin monomer under the conditions of normal coagulation versus drug-induced hypocoagulation in the experiment.

Materials and methods. The prothrombotic effect of intravenous (IV) administration of various systemic hemostatic agents was compared in a series of in vivo experiments. These agents included fibrin monomer (FM) (0.25 mg / kg), prothrombin complex concentrate (PCC) (40 IU / kg) or recombinant factor VIIa (rFVIIa) (270 mcg / kg). The studies were conducted under the conditions of hypocoagulation induced by the administration of warfarin (per os at a dose of 0.4–0.5 mg / kg / day for 14 days) or dabigatran etexilate (per os at a single dose of 15–20 mg / kg). Hemostatic system parameters were evaluated using thromboelastometry and calibrated automated thrombography.

Results. It was found that PCC reversed anticoagulant effects and led to an overcompensated increase in the density characteristics of the blood clot along with an excessive increase in thrombin generation in the groups of animals with warfarin-induced coagulopathy. The use of PCC and rFVIIa in the groups of animals with dabigatran-induced hypocoagulation also resulted in an increase in blood thrombogenic properties. In the administration of PCC, it was manifested though an increased D-dimer level and in administration of rFVIIa – through an increase in the clot density characteristics. At the same time, replacement of these hemostatic agents with FM did not affect the hemostatic system parameters.

Conclusion. FM at a dose of 0.25 mg / kg, as opposed to PCC and rFVIIa, is safer in terms of the risk of thrombosis.

Étude épidémiologique des accidents de la voie publique dans une île des Antilles, Marie-Galante

Objectifs : La traumatologie routière représente 13,1 décès pour 105 habitants en Guadeloupe. Marie-Galante (MG), île de l’archipel guadeloupéen, située dans les Antilles françaises, est fortement impactée par l’accidentologie routière. La prise en charge de ces victimes implique des spécificités organisationnelles liées à la géographie et au système de soins. Les objectifs de ce travail sont la description épidémiologique des victimes d’accident de la voie publique (AVP) et l’évaluation de la prise en charge (PEC) médicale initiale des victimes les plus graves.

Méthodes : Étude observationnelle rétrospective de 2016 à 2018 incluant les victimes prises en charge par le service médical d’urgence et de réanimation (Smur) et/ou par le centre hospitalier de Sainte-Marie (CHSM) à Marie-Galante. Les patients ont été répartis par critère de gravité : instables, critiques, potentiellement graves ou stables.

Résultats : Sur la période, 499 victimes ont nécessité une PEC : 164 (33 %) impliquant des véhicules légers, 217 (43 %) des deux-roues motorisés et 60 (12 %) des vélos. La population est jeune (29 [21–49] ans), et masculine (sex-ratio H/F : 3,3). Le CHSM a pris en charge 467 (95 %) victimes, 6 (1 %) étaient instables, 11 (2 %) critiques, 142 (28 %) potentiellement graves et 264 (53 %) stables ; 7 (1 %) ont bénéficié d’un transfert héliporté (TH) direct vers le centre hospitalier universitaire de Guadeloupe (CHUG), 52 (10 %) d’un TH secondaire après une PEC au CHSM. Tous les patients instables et 10 (91 %) des 11 critiques ont été admis au CHUG.

Conclusion : Cette étude souligne la forte incidence de la traumatologie routière à Marie-Galante. Ce travail doit permettre d’élaborer des axes d’amélioration de PEC, notamment par la filiarisation du patient traumatisé.

Association between hypotension and myocardial injury in patients with severe trauma

PURPOSE

During resuscitation of patients with severe trauma, guidelines recommend permissive hypotension prior to surgical bleeding control. However, hypotension may be associated with reduced organ perfusion and multiple organ dysfunction, e.g. myocardial injury. The association between hypotension and myocardial injury in trauma patients is underexplored. We hypothesized that hypotension is associated with myocardial injury in this population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This retrospective study included patients ≥ 18 years suffering from severe trauma [defined as Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥ 16] that were treated in the emergency department resuscitation room between 2016 and 2019. Primary endpoint was the incidence of myocardial injury defined as high-sensitive troponin T > 14 ng/l. Main exposure was the duration of arterial hypotension during resuscitation period defined as mean arterial pressure < 65 mmHg.

RESULTS

Out of 368 patients screened, 343 were analyzed (73% male, age: 55 ± 21, ISS: 28 ± 12). Myocardial injury was detected in 143 (42%) patients. Overall in-hospital mortality was 26%. Multivariate binary logistic regression with forced entry of nine predefined covariables revealed an odds ratio of 1.29 [95% confidence interval 1.16-1.44]; p = 0.012) for the association between the duration of hypotension and myocardial injury.

CONCLUSION

The duration of hypotension during resuscitation period is independently associated with the incidence of myocardial injury in patients with severe trauma.

Pediatric traumatic hemorrhagic shock consensus conference recommendations

ABSTRACT

Hemorrhagic shock in pediatric trauma patients remains a challenging yet preventable cause of death. There is little high-quality evidence available to guide specific aspects of hemorrhage control and specific resuscitation practices in this population. We sought to generate clinical recommendations, expert consensus, and good practice statements to aid providers in care for these difficult patients.The Pediatric Traumatic Hemorrhagic Shock Consensus Conference process included systematic reviews related to six subtopics and one consensus meeting. A panel of 16 consensus multidisciplinary committee members evaluated the literature related to 6 specific topics: (1) blood products and fluid resuscitation for hemostatic resuscitation, (2) utilization of prehospital blood products, (3) use of hemostatic adjuncts, (4) tourniquet use, (5) prehospital airway and blood pressure management, and (6) conventional coagulation tests or thromboelastography-guided resuscitation. A total of 21 recommendations are detailed in this article: 2 clinical recommendations, 14 expert consensus statements, and 5 good practice statements. The statement, the panel's voting outcome, and the rationale for each statement intend to give pediatric trauma providers the latest evidence and guidance to care for pediatric trauma patients experiencing hemorrhagic shock. With a broad multidisciplinary representation, the Pediatric Traumatic Hemorrhagic Shock Consensus Conference systematically evaluated the literature and developed clinical recommendations, expert consensus, and good practice statements concerning topics in traumatically injured pediatric patients with hemorrhagic shock.

Warning about potential incidents of critical hyperkalemia during massive transfusion protocol after the preservation period of red blood cell products was extended in Japan

Background

Recently, the Japanese Red Cross Society approved extension of the preservation period of red blood cell products. Since then, we have already experienced two cases of critical hyperkalemia during massive transfusion protocol (MTP).

Case Presentation

Case 1, a 24-year-old man was stabbed in his right posterior chest. Although quick hemorrhage control was completed 35 min after arrival, his potassium level increased from 3.5 to 8.9 mEq/L within 40 min. Case 2, a 44-year-old man was transferred to our hospital after a car hit him. We immediately started resuscitation including MTP and opened his abdomen 24 min after arrival. His potassium level increased from 3.5 to 7.8 mEq/L within 38 min.

Conclusion

Although several other factors might be causing this rise in potassium, we consider the extended preservation periods of red blood cell products to be one cause of these unexpectedly rapid rises in potassium during MTP.

Outcomes of 4-factor Prothrombin Complex Concentrate in Patients With Liver Disease and Nonvitamin K Antagonist-Related Coagulopathy: A Retrospective Study

The administration of 4-factor prothrombin complex concentrate (4F-PCC) has expanded beyond its Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indication for the emergent reversal of vitamin K antagonists (VKAs). Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the risks and benefits associated with the expanded use of 4F-PCC. We conducted a single-center retrospective review of 4F-PCC administrations at our university hospital. Of the 159 patients who received 4F-PCC, 76% (n = 121) and 24% (n = 38) received it for the FDA-approved indication in the vitamin K-related coagulopathy (VKA) group and for expanded use in the nonvitamin K-related coagulopathy (nVKA) group, respectively. The expanded use of 4F-PCC was associated with a less robust reduction in the international normalized ratio (INR) (INR of -0.7 ± 1.3 vs INR of -1.6 ± 1.8, P = .002), and fewer patients in the nVKA group achieved a postadministration INR of less than1.5 (11% vs 79%, P = .001) than those in the VKA group. Furthermore, the 30-day mortality rate was significantly higher in the nVKA cohort than in the VKA cohort (42% vs 20%, P = .04). Notably, based on our data, underlying differences in the patient's comorbidities, particularly advanced liver disease, may have contributed to the observed outcome variations, including mortality rate. Therefore, factors, including comorbidities and the underlying etiology of coagulopathy, should be considered when deciding on the expanded use of 4F-PCC. Further research is needed to better understand the potential risks and benefits of 4F-PCC in expanded use scenarios, and the clinical decision to use 4F-PCC outside its FDA-approved indication should be made carefully, considering this information.

The Multiple Functions of Melatonin: Applications in the Military Setting

The aim of this review is to provide the reader with a general overview on the rationale for the use of melatonin by military personnel. This is a technique that is being increasingly employed to manage growing psycho-physical loads. In this context, melatonin, a pleotropic and regulatory molecule, has a potential preventive and therapeutic role in maintaining the operational efficiency of military personnel. In battlefield conditions in particular, the time to treatment after an injury is often a major issue since the injured may not have immediate access to medical care. Any drug that would help to stabilize a wounded individual, especially if it can be immediately administered (e.g., per os) and has a very high safety profile over a large range of doses (as melatonin does) would be an important asset to reduce morbidity and mortality. Melatonin may also play a role in the oscillatory synchronization of the neuro-cardio-respiratory systems and, through its epigenetic action, poses the possibility of restoring the main oscillatory waves of the cardiovascular system, such as the Mayer wave and RSA (respiratory sinus arrhythmia), which, in physiological conditions, result in the oscillation of the heartbeat in synchrony with the breath. In the future, this could be a very promising field of investigation.

1,2,3-Triazole Derivatives as Novel Antifibrinolytic Drugs

Fibrinolysis is a natural process that ensures blood fluidity through the removal of fibrin deposits. However, excessive fibrinolytic activity can lead to complications in different circumstances, such as general surgery or severe trauma. The current antifibrinolytic drugs in the market, aminocaproic acid (EACA) and tranexamic acid (TXA), require high doses repetitively to maintain their therapeutic effect. These high doses are related to a number of side effects such as headaches, nasal symptoms, or gastrointestinal discomfort and severely limit their use in patients with renal impairment. Therefore, the discovery of novel antifibrinolytics with a higher specificity and lower dosage could vastly improve the applicability of these drugs. Herein, we synthesized a total of ten compounds consisting of a combination of three key moieties: an oxadiazolone, a triazole, and a terminal amine. The IC₅₀ of each compound was calculated in our clot lysis assays, and the best candidate (1) provided approximately a 2.5-fold improvement over the current gold standard, TXA. Molecular docking and molecular dynamics were used to perform a structure-activity relationship (SAR) analysis with the lysine binding site in the Kringle 1 domain of plasminogen. This analysis revealed that 1,2,3-triazole was crucial for the activity, enhancing the binding affinity through pi-pi stacking and polar interactions with Tyr72. The results presented in this work open the door to further investigate this new family as potential antifibrinolytic drugs.