How effective and feasible is pre-hospital REBOA compared to non-REBOA interventions for trauma patients with massive bleeding? A systematic review.

Bouscholte Boris, 2023
In the ever-evolving field of trauma medicine, the introduction of innovative techniques can significantly improve patient outcomes, especially in critical, life-threatening scenarios. This thesis, conducted at Ghent University for the Master of Medicine in Medicine program, delves into the effectiveness and feasibility of a groundbreaking technique known as Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) in pre-hospital settings. The manuscript includes a scoping review from the 2022-2023 academic year, providing a broad overview on the topic, and a detailed systematic review from 2023-2024, focusing on specific research question findings. REBOA represents a pivotal advancement in trauma care for patients experiencing massive bleeding, particularly in situations where traditional methods may fall short. Its primary function is to temporarily halt severe hemorrhage, thereby buying crucial time for patients to receive definitive medical care. This technique is especially beneficial in pre-hospital environments where immediate surgical intervention is not possible. Through a comprehensive systematic review, this thesis explores the comparative effectiveness and practicality of REBOA against non-REBOA interventions in trauma cases with significant bleeding. The findings offer insightful perspectives on how REBOA can enhance survival rates and overall outcomes for trauma patients, potentially transforming the approach to managing severe bleeding in pre-hospital settings. The implications of this research extend beyond the medical community to public health and emergency response systems. Understanding the capabilities and limitations of REBOA can aid in better preparation and training for emergency medical personnel, ultimately leading to improved trauma care and survival rates. This research not only contributes to the academic and medical fields but also underscores the importance of integrating innovative techniques into emergency trauma care. By sharing these findings with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and the public, the gap between cutting-edge medical research and its practical application in society can be bridged, enhancing the overall efficacy of trauma management and emergency medical response.

Promotor Jean-Baptiste Watelet
Opleiding Geneeskunde
Domein Spoedgeneeskunde
Kernwoorden pre-hospital REBOA balloon occlusion hemorrhage hemorrhagic shock trauma