Abstract
IntroductionThe 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. MethodsIn 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. ResultsThere 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). ConclusionsA narrowed pulse pressure is associated with the presence of hemorrhagic shock and need for emergent interventions among patients with penetrating torso trauma.
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