Narrowed pulse pressure predicts massive transfusion and emergent operative intervention following penetrating trauma

Abstract

Introduction

The early identification of hemorrhagic shock may be challenging. The objective of this study was to examine the utility of a narrowed pulse pressure in identifying the need for emergent interventions following penetrating trauma.

Methods

In this 2.5-year retrospective study of adult patients with a penetrating mechanism, patients with a narrowed pulse pressure (<30 mmHg) were compared to those without. Main outcomes measures were the need for a massive transfusion or emergent operation.

Results

There were 957 patients, of which the majority were male (86%) and 55% presented with gunshot wounds. On multivariate analysis, a narrowed pulse pressure was associated with the need for massive transfusion (OR 3.74, 95% C.I. 1.8–7.7, p = 0.0003) and emergent surgery (OR 1.68, 95% C.I. 1.14–2.48, p = 0.009).

Conclusions

A narrowed pulse pressure is associated with the presence of hemorrhagic shock and need for emergent interventions among patients with penetrating torso trauma.