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Case Presentation: An 89-year-old male who had been holding dabigatran in the setting of transcarotid artery revascularization presented to the emergency department with sudden onset leg pain and weakness. Computed tomography angiography revealed acute aortic occlusion and thrombosis of the bilateral common iliac arteries. He underwent aortoiliac and femoral embolectomies and stenting of the bilateral common iliac arteries and returned to his baseline functional status.  Discussion: Acute aortic occlusion is a rare but often devastating vascular emergency characterized by obstruction of the aorta by an embolus or thrombosis. Diagnosis can be challenging as it may be mistaken for spinal pathology, which can lead to delays in diagnosis. Despite advances in diagnostic modalities and interventions, acute aortic occlusion often results in high rates of major morbidity and mortality.

Sarah K Lee,1 Kaushik Mukherjee2 1Department of Plastic Surgery, University of California Irvine Health, Irvine, CA, USA; 2Division of Acute Care Surgery, Loma Linda University Health, Loma Linda, CA, USACorrespondence: Kaushik Mukherjee, Division of Acute Care Surgery, Loma Linda University Health, 11175 Campus Street, CP, 21111, Loma Linda, CA, 92350, USA, Tel +001 909-558-4286, Fax +001 909-558-236, Email kmukherjee@llu.eduAbstract: Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) has emerged as a promising intervention for hemorrhagic shock and traumatic injury management, offering a minimally invasive means of aortic occlusion compared to resuscitative thoracotomy. While REBOA’s origin dates back to the 1950s, recent advancements have made it more accessible and applicable in various clinical scenarios. REBOA has become increasingly utilized in not only the exsanguinating trauma patient but also in non-traumatic hemorrhage as a bridge to definitive hemostatic control. This article reviews the procedure and mechanism, clinical applications, and challenges associated with the REBOA. There are several challenges to consider when implementing the REBOA, particularly in procedural execution and patient selection. Determining the ideal candidates for REBOA remains inconclusive, with varying outcomes reported in different patient populations. Additionally, the potential for ischemic complications, such as visceral organ injury, end organ damage, and lower extremity ischemia, underscores the critical importance of procedural planning and ongoing monitoring. Partial and intermittent REBOA techniques have been introduced to mitigate ischemic complications associated with complete occlusion, but their efficacy and safety warrant further investigation. Beyond technical considerations, logistical and institutional factors pose as potential barriers to the effective utilization of REBOA, highlighting the importance of standardized training and a multidisciplinary approach when establishing a REBOA program. REBOA offers promising advancements in hemorrhage control, and the technology continues to evolve to address potential challenges and complications. Further research is imperative to delineate its optimal use and potential impact on patient outcomes.Keywords: traumatic hemorrhagic shock, REBOA, postpartum hemorrhage, partial REBOA, aortic occlusion, endovascular

Introduction Retrograde Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) is an effective management for the transient responder, but the ischemic consequences of complete aortic occlusion currently limit its use. Multiple DoD-funded preclinical studies have clearly demonstrated that partial REBOA reduces distal ischemia to potentially extend safe occlusion times, while still providing effective temporization of noncompressible torso hemorrhage. Early versions of REBOA devices were designed to completely occlude the aorta and had little ability to provide partial occlusion. Recently, a new REBOA device (pREBOA-PRO) was designed specifically to allow for partial occlusion, with the hypothesis that this may reduce the complications of aortic occlusion and extend safe occlusion times while maintaining the benefits on cardiac and cerebrovascular circulation as well as reductions in resuscitation requirements. Materials and Methods To ascertain the impact of a new purpose-built partial REBOA device on the extension of safe occlusion time, the Partial REBOA Outcomes Multicenter ProspecTive (PROMPT) trial compared available data from the pREBOA-PRO with existing data from 200 clinical uses of pREBOA-PRO and available data in the AAST AORTA Registry were reviewed to design primary endpoints and clinical evidence for a prospective multi-center trial, the PROMPT Study. Together with the endpoints identified in preclinical studies of partial REBOA, primary endpoints for the PROMPT study were identified and power analyses were conducted to determine the target patient enrollment goals. Results Results from the clinical implementation of partial REBOA at a single trauma center were used to conduct the initial power analysis for the primary endpoint of Acute Kidney Injury (AKI) after prolonged occlusion. The rate of AKI after complete REBOA was 55% (12/20) compared to 33% (4/12) after partial REBOA (Madurska et al. 2021). With an alpha of 0.05 and power (β) of 0.8, the projected sample size for comparison on a dichotomous outcome is 85 patients for the assessment of AKI. Initial power and endpoint analyses have been confirmed and extended with the ongoing analysis of partial and complete REBOA reported in the AORTA database. These analyses confirm preclinical findings which show that compared to complete REBOA, partial REBOA is associated with extended occlusion time in zone 1 (complete: 31 min vs. partial: 45 min, P  = 0.003), lower rates of AKI after zone 1 occlusion (complete: 33% vs. partial: 19%, P  = 0.05) and reduced resuscitation requirements (e.g. 25% reduction in pRBC administration: complete: 18 units vs. partial: 13 units, P  = 0.02). Conclusions The DoD-funded PROMPT study of partial REBOA will provide prospective observational clinical data on patients being treated with pREBOA-PRO. Outcomes will be stratified based on partial or complete occlusion to address whether partial REBOA has additional clinical benefits over complete REBOA, such as decreased distal ischemia, extension of safe occlusion time, improved hemodynamics during transition to and from occlusion, and reduced interoperative bleeding and blood product use. The results from this study are expected to confirm previous data demonstrating reduction of ischemic sequalae, improved transition to reperfusion, and reduced resuscitative requirements compared to complete REBOA. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The goal of the present national survey was to describe the practices and use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) in France in level-1 trauma centers. Methods: Between January and December 2023, the ACUTE SFAR (Société Française d’Anesthésie et de Réanimation) committee sent a numeric survey to each French level-1 trauma center. This survey was focused on REBOA in trauma management including: use, protocol (indications, placement, aortic occlusion durations), aortic occlusion location (Zone 1/Zone 3), partial occlusion (pREBOA), device characteristics, operator, specific complications. Results: Among the 41 French level-1 trauma centers, 18 (44%) had incorporated REBOA in their algorithm. In 2022, 78% (14/18) of these centers had experienced between 1 and 5 REBOA placements, 11% (2/18) between 6 and 10, and 6% (1/18) 10 or more placements. The frequency of REBOA procedures increased with the duration of REBOA availability at the center. A protocol for REBOA placement was present in 28% (5/18) of centers. An anesthesiologistintensivist was the operator in 50% (9/18), a surgeon in 28% (5/18), and a radiologist in 22% (4/18) of centers. The proportion of centers using REBOA in Zone 1 was 39% (7/18), and pREBOA 33% (6/18). The maximum duration of complete aortic occlusion was specified in 50% of centers for Zone 1 and 78% for Zone 3. Conclusions: Use of REBOA is modestly spread among the French trauma centers, and in less than half of centers. Specific protocols are present. Anesthesiologist-intensivists are the operators in only half of these centers.

Abstract Background REBOA is a method used to manage bleeding during surgery involving sacropelvic tumors. Nevertheless, studies on the use of REBOA among elderly people are lacking. The aim of this research was to investigate the efficacy and safety of Zone III REBOA in patients aged more than 70 years. Methods A comparative study was conducted using case-control methods. A group of patients, referred to as Group A, who were younger than 70 years was identified and paired with a comparable group of patients, known as Group B, who were older than 70 years. Continuous monitoring of physiological parameters was conducted, and blood samples were collected at consistent intervals. Results Totally, 188 participants were enrolled and received REBOA. Among the 188 patients, seventeen were aged more than 70 years. By implementing REBOA, the average amount of blood loss was only 1427 ml. Experiments were also conducted to compare Group A and Group B. No notable differences were observed in terms of demographic variables, systolic blood pressure (SBP), arterial pH, lactate levels, blood creatinine levels, potassium levels, or calcium levels at baseline. Additionally, after the deflation of the REBOA, laboratory test results, which included arterial pH, lactate, potassium concentration, calcium concentration, and blood creatinine concentration, were not significantly different (P > 0.05). Conclusion This study indicated that in selected patients aged more than 70 years can achieve satisfactory hemodynamic and metabolic stability with Zone III REBOA. Level of evidence Therapeutic study, Level III.

Introduction According to domestic and foreign authors, the leading cause of death in victims with polytrauma is blood loss. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is one of the new promising ways to manage bleeding in patients in a state of traumatic shock. There are a large number of publications in the world scientific literature indicating the high effectiveness of this technology in the treatment of bleeding. However, in the Russian Federation, this method has not yet entered into everyday practice, and scientific research on this matter is scarce. AIM Based on literature data and analysis of our own sample, to justify the need to use REBOA technology for the treatment of victims with polytrauma.Material and methods A retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients with polytrauma admitted to the N.V. Sklifosovsky Research Institute for Emergency Medicine in 2021 was carried out. Data from medical records and the Results of forensic medical examinations were studied. The main sample included victims with polytrauma (Injury Severity Score, ISS, of more than 17 points) delivered from the scene of the incident in a state of traumatic shock (systolic blood pressure, SBP, of less than 90 mm Hg) and a verified source of bleeding. To assess the potential survival of victims, we used the Trauma Score and Injury Severity Score (TRISS) scale.Results Of the 92 patients with polytrauma, 19 patients (20.6%) had indications for REBOA. The most common sources of bleeding were injuries to the pelvic ring, 14 (73.7%), abdomen, 11 (57.9%), and chest, 7 (36.8%). In 6 victims (31.5%), there were combined abdomen and pelvic injuries as the area of blood loss. The mean age of the victims was 48.8±19.9 years, the mean ISS value was 39.4±20.1. On admission, the mean SBP was 62.4±31.5 mm Hg, and heart rate — 91.8±43.3 beats/min. In 8 victims (42.1%), norepinephrine was administered immediately upon hospitalization at an average dose of 837.5±537.0 ng/kg/min. As a result of their injuries, 15 patients (78.9%) died, and 4 were discharged from the hospital. According to the Conclusions of forensic experts, the leading cause of death was blood loss in 11 (61.1%), severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in 4 (22.2%), and infectious complications in 3 cases (16.7%).The TRISS was calculated for each patient. In order to identify the most potentially viable patients with indications for REBOA, we excluded 5 patients with severe TBI (the mean TRISS was 20.9±11.1%), and 5 patients with the TRISS of less than 50% (the mean TRISS was 10.0±14.1%), the latter died from hemorrhagic shock. Among the remaining 9 patients with higher TRISS values, 5 (26.3%) who died had the mean TRISS of 80.5±15.8%, comparable to the mean TRISS of 83.3±2.4% in the 4 survivors.Conclusion 1. According to foreign and domestic publications, the technology of resuscitation endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is effective for stopping internal bleeding in patients with polytrauma. 2. When analyzing our own sample of patients, it was proven that 20.6% of patients with polytrauma had indications for the use of REBOA. Most of them (78.9%) died. The main cause of death was hemorrhagic shock. 3. About a quarter of patients (26.3%) with indications for REBOA had a potentially high chance of survival. In the future, the use of this technology may reduce the number of deaths.

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BackgroundHemorrhage is a leading cause of maternal death worldwide, with increased risk in women with abnormal placentation. Aortic balloon occlusion (ABO), including resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion, has been used for obstetrical hemorrhage for 20 years, and is associated with decreased operative blood loss, fewer transfusions, and lower rates of hysterectomy. However, the effect of aortic occlusion on fetal/neonatal outcomes is not well known.MethodsA literature review on ABO for obstetrical or traumatic hemorrhage was performed. Cases were included if fetal/neonatal outcomes were reported. Data were collected on timing of balloon inflation (predelivery or postdelivery), fetal/neonatal mortality, and Apgar scores. Secondary maternal outcomes included blood loss, need for hysterectomy, ABO-related complications, and mortality.ResultsTwenty-one reports of ABO in 825 cases of obstetrical hemorrhage were reviewed (nine case reports/series and twelve comparative studies). 13.5% (111/825) had aortic occlusion prior to delivery of the fetus. Comparative cohorts included 448 patients who underwent iliac artery balloon occlusion (n = 219) or no vascular balloon occlusion (n = 229). The most common neonatal outcome reported was Apgar scores, with no difference in fetal/neonatal outcomes between ABO and non-ABO patients in any study. One neonatal mortality occurred in the sole reported case of ABO use in a pregnant trauma patient at 24 weeks gestation. One maternal mortality occurred because of aortic dissection. Five comparative studies reported significantly decreased blood loss in ABO patients compared to non-ABO patients, and four studies reported significantly lower rates of hysterectomy in ABO patients. ABO-related complications were reported in 1.6% of patients (13/825).ConclusionObstetrical hemorrhage is a devastating complication, and ABO may potentially decrease blood loss and reduce the hysterectomy rate without compromising fetal and neonatal outcomes. Further research is needed to determine the safety of predelivery aortic occlusion as this occurred in 14% of the cases.

Abstract Background Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is increasingly used. The recently published UK-REBOA trial aimed to investigate patients suffering haemorrhagic shock and randomized to standard care alone or REBOA as adjunct to standard care and concludes that REBOA may increase the mortality. Main body In this commentary we try to balance the discussion on use of REBOA and address limitations in the UK-REBOA trial that may have influenced the outcome of the study. Conclusion The situation is complex, and the patients are in extremis. In summary, we do not think this is the end of balloons.

Iatrogenic aortic injury is a rare complication of laparoscopic nephrectomy with potentially catastrophic complications. Delays in recognition and treatment contribute significantly to patient morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a patient with acute limb ischemia and mesenteric ischemia secondary to partial transection of the supraceliac aorta during laparoscopic nephrectomy with a staple ligature. The injury was successfully treated with resection of the stapled aorta and reconstruction of a thoracoabdominal aortic bypass with a jump graft to the celiac artery.

The management of trauma and emergency procedures (i.e., aneurysm repair, visceral and pelvic bleeding, and others) has undergone considerable changes due to the presence of new endovascular and mini-invasive approaches, which have supplanted the surgical approach in some cases. The use of Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) has been largely used to manage trauma patients, but it is, nowadays, increasingly also being used for other types of bleeding, such as vascular emergencies, post-partum hemorrhages, and gastrointestinal and iatrogenic or spontaneous bleeding. We present a case of an unexpected hemorrhagic shock in a patient with a locally advanced cervix neoplasm involving sacrum and pelvic vessels, where we used a REBOA to manage an intraprocedural massive bleed due to the rupture of the descending branch of the right hypogastric artery.

Uncontrolled hemorrhage models require sufficient quantities of donor blood products to support resuscitation. To that end, we describe a novel method of whole blood extraction from donor swine using resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) to support hemodynamics during terminal blood extraction and its impact on the quality of banked blood. Ten adult Yorkshire-cross swine were anesthetized and instrumented with an REBOA catheter, femoral multistage venous cannula, and proximal/distal blood pressure monitoring. Hemodynamics during terminal blood extraction was supported with hand-titrated partial REBOA. Blood samples were taken at set time points for analysis. The median collected blood volume was 3912 mL, with all animals surviving through the planned blood collection of 60% estimated total blood volume (ETBV). Median lactate and potassium levels remained within normal limits for swine through collection of 40% of the ETBV. Median hemoglobin through collection of 40% ETBV did not significantly change from values measured at the start of hemorrhage. This method of whole blood extraction provided sufficient blood volume and blood quality appropriate for transfusion through 40% ETBV, with remaining collected blood likely still acceptable for allogeneic transfusion despite increased lactate levels. This method of whole blood extraction can efficiently provide a large volume of quality blood to support resuscitation for subsequent uncontrolled hemorrhage models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is increasingly used. The recently published UK-REBOA trial aimed to investigate patients suffering haemorrhagic shock and randomized to standard care alone or REBOA as adjunct to standard care and concludes that REBOA may increase the mortality. Main body: In this commentary we try to balance the discussion on use of REBOA and address limitations in the UK-REBOA trial that may have influenced the outcome of the study. Conclusion: The situation is complex, and the patients are in extremis. In summary, we do not think this is the end of balloons. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Open in new tab Download slide OBJECTIVES Ischaemia and reperfusion-induced microvascular dysfunction is a serious problem encountered during a variety surgical procedures, leading to systemic inflammation and affecting remote organs, specially the lungs. 17β-Oestradiol reduces pulmonary repercussions from various acute lung injury forms. Here, we focused on the 17β-oestradiol therapeutic effects after aortic ischaemia and reperfusion (I/R) by evaluating lung inflammation. METHODS Twenty-four Wistar rats were submitted to I/R by insufflation of a 2-F catheter in thoracic aorta for 20 min. Reperfusion took 4 h and 17β-oestradiol (280 µg/kg, i.v.) was administered after 1 h of reperfusion. Sham-operated rats were controls. Bronchoalveolar lavage was performed and lung samples were prepared for histopathological analysis and tissue culture (explant). Interleukin (IL)-1β, IL-10 and tumour necrosis factor-α were quantified. RESULTS After I/R, higher number of leukocytes in bronchoalveolar lavage were reduced by 17β-oestradiol. The treatment also decreased leukocytes in lung tissue. I/R increased lung myeloperoxidase expression, with reduction by 17β-oestradiol. Serum cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant 1 and IL-1β increased after I/R and 17β-oestradiol decreased cytokine-induced neutrophil chemoattractant 1. I/R increased IL-1β and IL-10 in lung explants, reduced by 17β-oestradiol. CONCLUSIONS Our results showed that 17β-oestradiol treatment performed in the period of reperfusion, modulated the systemic response and the lung repercussions of I/R by thoracic aortic occlusion. Thus, we can suggest that 17β-oestradiol might be a supplementary approach leading the lung deterioration after aortic clamping in surgical procedures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Several surgical and endovascular techniques are used during the treatment of aorto-iliac occlusive disease. Aortobifemoral bypass (AoBFB) is the standard of care, but other options such as axillobifemoral (AxBFB) bypass, aorto-iliac kissing stents (KS), and covered endovascular reconstruction of aortic bifurcation (CERAB) are also available. This study aimed to perform a computational comparison of these four modalities to investigate their haemodynamic performance. Report: Eight patient specific anatomies were analysed, with each of the abovementioned techniques used to treat two anatomies. The CT angiograms were segmented from the renal (or axillary) to common femoral arteries and the 3D geometries were exported. A commercial finite volume solver was implemented for numerical simulations. Outcomes that were assessed were pressure drop (ΔP) between the inlet and the outlet for every configuration and haemodynamic indices of Time Average Wall Shear Stress (TAWSS), Oscillatory Shear Index (OSI), and Relative Residence Time (RRT) as markers of a thrombogenic environment. The results indicate that maximum ΔP was observed at peak systole for all models, with values ranging between 12 mmHg and 21 mmHg for the AoBFB, 64 mmHg and 96 mmHg for the AxBFB, 31 mmHg and 46 mmHg for the KS, and 43 mmHg and 46 mmHg for the CERAB configuration. TAWSS, OSI, and RRT varied among different configurations, mostly presenting values well above thrombogenic thresholds. Regarding RRT, the percentage of total surface area presenting such values is 2.5%, 3.2%, 2%, and 4.3% for the AoBFB, AxBFB, KS, and CERAB configurations, respectively. Discussion: Computational modelling indicates a favourable haemodynamic performance of AoBFB compared with the other configurations. This leads to a smaller pressure drop and sconsequently a higher pressure in the outlet of the conduit, which is the perfusion pressure of the limb. Notably, lower patency rates of the latter modalities cannot be explained based on haemodynamic indices.

This case report and literature review aimed to evaluate the incidence and characteristics of abdominal aortic thrombosis in patients with COVID-19. A case report was presented of a 52-y-old male with past medical history significant only for hypertension who presented with lower extremity claudication 5 months after a mild COVID-19 infection. On imaging, he had an isolated aortic thrombus and underwent successful thrombectomy. To prevent devastating limb ischemia, we emphasize early evaluation of claudication symptoms in patients with COVID-19 or recent COVID-19 infection. A literature search was performed, which yielded nine articles relevant to concomitant COVID-19 infection and abdominal aortic occlusion (AAO). The results showed that the majority of patients presented with clinical features of acute limb ischemia, along with associated features of a hypercoagulable state. While the patient age range was wide, most patients were over the age of 50 y. The case report and literature review highlight the importance of recognizing the potential for AAO in patients with COVID-19, especially in those with risk factors such as advanced age or underlying medical conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Patients with atrial fibrillation with contraindications to anticoagulation can undergo left atrial appendage closure with a device. Hours after a 73-year-old man had undergone left atrial appendage closure, he lost perfusion to his lower extremities. Imaging studies showed that the device had migrated to the infrarenal aorta. After right common femoral artery cutdown and sheath placement, the device was retrieved with a balloon embolectomy catheter, and a balloon was simultaneously deployed in the proximal left common femoral artery to prevent device embolization. To the best of our knowledge, this report represents the first documented device retrieval from the aorta using balloon embolectomy and contralateral lower extremity embolic protection.

We describe a successful case of hybrid revascularization of a totally occluded aortobifemoral bypass with retrograde use of the Rotarex S catheter (BD) and complete relining with a Gore Excluder iliac branch endoprosthesis (W.L. Gore & Associates). The repair procedure was performed with femoral surgical access and percutaneous brachial access. Despite left renal artery endoclamping, after the final angiography, deployment of a covered stent in the left renal artery was needed because of residual thrombotic material at the vessel ostium. The procedure was completed with reconstruction using a common femoral artery Dacron graft and bilateral complete iliac surgical branch relining using self-expanding covered stents, with recovery of distal pulses.

Complete aortic occlusion is a rare pathology with various possible etiologies. According to current data, it is most frequently caused by atherosclerosis. However, thrombosis or vasculitis could also be involved. We present the case of a 42-year-old female with chronic complete distal aortic occlusion, associated pulmonary embolism and positive antiphospholipid antibodies. The patient had an obstetric history suggestive of antiphospholipid syndrome (APS). She presented with typical intermittent claudication symptoms persisting for approximately five years at the time of admission. Arteriography revealed complete infrarenal aortic occlusion and the presence of collateral arteries. Aortoiliac bypass surgery was performed. This case emphasizes an unusual, yet possible, etiology of chronic aortic occlusion—most probably, combining atherosclerosis and chronic thrombosis—in a relatively young patient, in which the diagnosis was significantly delayed due to the peculiar association of traits. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is a key procedure in sacral and pelvic tumor resection that provides hemorrhage control. However, few studies have been performed to capture the effects of REBOA in a nonshock condition and provide a detailed description of the changes occurring with prolonged occlusion time. This study aimed to examine the hemodynamic and metabolic effects of Zone 3 REBOA for sacral and pelvic tumor resections following different periods of REBOA. Methods In total, 121 patients who underwent surgical tumor resections of the pelvis and/or the sacrum with the use of aortic balloon occlusion were prospectively enrolled from October 2020 to December 2021. All cases were divided into Group A (occlusion time ≤ 60 min, n = 57) and Group B (occlusion time ≥ 90 min, n = 64). Physiologic parameters were continuously recorded, and laboratory specimens were obtained at regular intervals. Results Balloon inflation resulted in a significant increase in SBP from 106 to 120 mmHg and decreased to 96 mmHg immediately following balloon deflation. With the application of REBOA, the median blood loss was only 1200 ml (range, 400–7900). When deflating the REBOA, the arterial pH was lower than baseline (7.36 vs. 7.41, p

Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is an uncommon fibrotic disorder that can cause pain, ureteral obstruction, deep venous thrombosis, hydrocele, and, rarely, aortic occlusion. Herein is described a 65-year-old man with aortic occlusion from idiopathic RPF who was treated with axillobifemoral bypass grafting, which failed in the intermediate term. On representation with critical claudication, he underwent thoracobifemoral bypass grafting via a lateral retroperitoneal tunnel created through a midline, infraumbilical counterincision. He was discharged home on postoperative day 5. This illustrates the successful use of thoracic aortic inflow to treat the aortoiliac occlusive complication of RPF.

We present the case of a 61-year-old male who had undergone infrarenal endovascular aortic aneurysm repair, right iliac branched endoprosthesis and left internal iliac artery-covered stenting for aneurysms of the right common iliac artery and left internal iliac artery. Two months after the index procedure, he presented to the emergency room with acute onset of back pain, which progressed to bilateral lower extremity paraplegia and anesthesia. On physical exam, his femoral and pedal pulses were absent. Computed tomography angiography demonstrated collapse of the proximal aortic stent graft with thrombosis of the bilateral common iliac limbs and of the left internal iliac artery stent. He underwent bilateral, over-the-wire Fogarty thrombectomy, 40mm × 10mm Palmaz balloon-expandable stent placement at the proximal endograft, relining of the iliac limbs with covered stents, and aspiration thrombectomy of the left internal iliac artery. Pelvic and lower extremity perfusion were restored at the completion of the procedure. The patient regained motor function on postoperative day 0, and gradually regained sensory function. He was discharged on postoperative day 6 on aspirin (81mg) and low-dose direct oral anticoagulants.

Background: Emergency resuscitative thoracotomy (RT) is a recognised method of controlling non-compressible torso haemorrhage (NCTH) often in adjunct to emergency surgery. Recently, there is much debate regarding resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of aorta (REBOA) on its role in civilian trauma cases in controlling NCTH. This study aims to provide an updated review on in-hospital mortality rates in patients who underwent REBOA versus RT and standard care without REBOA (non-REBOA) and to identify the potential indicators of REBOA survival. Methods: Cochrane and Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were used to perform the study. All adult trauma cases were included, while pre-hospital, military and non-English studies were excluded. A literature search was done on studies from 01 January 2005 to 30 June 2020 using EMBASE, MEDLINE and COCHRANE databases. Risk of bias was assessed using the Methodological Index for Non-Randomised Studies (MINORS) tool. Meta-analysis was conducted using a random effects model and the DerSimonian and Laird estimation method. A significance level of p < 0.05 was used. Results: Twenty-five studies were included in this study. The odds of in-hospital mortality of patients who underwent REBOA compared to RT was 0.18 (p < 0.01, 0.12–0.26). The odds of in-hospital survival of patients who underwent REBOA compared to non-REBOA was 1.28 (p = 0.62, 0.46–3.53). There was a significant difference found between survivors and non-survivors in terms of their pre-REBOA systolic blood pressure (SBP) (19.26 mmHg, p < 0.01), post-REBOA SBP (20.73 mmHg, p < 0.01), duration of aortic occlusion (− 40.57 min, p < 0.01) and injury severity score (− 8.50, p < 0.01). Conclusions: REBOA has a potential for wider application in civilian settings, with our study demonstrating lower in-hospital mortality compared to RT. Prospective multi-centre studies are needed for further evaluation of the indications and feasibility of REBOA. Level of Evidence + Study Type: Level IV. Systematic review with meta-analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate survival after emergency department thoracotomy (EDT) in a physician-staffed emergency medicine system. Methods: This single-center retrospective study included all in extremis trauma patients who underwent EDT between 2013 and 2021 in a military level 1 trauma center. CPR time exceeding 15 minutes for penetrating trauma of 10 minutes for blunt trauma, and identified head injury were the exclusion criteria. Results: Thirty patients (73% male, 22/30) with a median age of 42 y/o [27–64], who presented mostly with polytrauma (60%, 18/30), blunt trauma (60%, 18/30), and severe chest trauma with a median AIS of 4 3–5 underwent EDT. Mean prehospital time was 58 min (4–73). On admission, the mean ISS was 41 29–50, and 53% (16/30) of patients had lost all signs of life (SOL) before EDT. On initial work-up, Hb was 9.6 g/dL [7.0–11.1], INR was 2.5 [1.7–3.2], pH was 7.0 [6.8–7.1], and lactate level was 11.1 [7.0–13.1] mmol/L. Survival rates at 24 h and 90 days after penetrating versus blunt trauma were 58 and 41% versus 16 and 6%, respectively. If SOL were present initially, these values were 100 and 80% versus 22 and 11%. Conclusion: Among in extremis patients supported in a physician-staffed emergency medicine system, implementation of a trauma protocol with EDT resulted in overall survival rates of 33% at 24 h and 20% at 90 days. Best survival was observed for penetrating trauma or in the presence of SOL on admission. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Use of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) for temporary hemorrhage control in severe non-compressible torso trauma remains controversial, with limited data on patient selection and outcomes. This study aims to analyze the nationwide trends of its use in the emergency department (EDs)., Methods: A retrospective analysis of the American College of Surgeons Trauma Quality Improvement Program (ACS-TQIP) from 2017 to 2022 was performed, focusing on REBOA placements in EDs., Results: The analysis included 3398 REBOA procedures. Majority patients were male (76 ​%) with a median age of 40 years (27-58) and injury severity score of 20 (20-41). The most common mechanism was collision (64 ​%), with emergency surgeries most frequently performed for pelvic trauma (14 ​%). Level 1 trauma centers performed 82 ​% of these procedures, with consistent low annual utilization (<200 facilities). Survival rates were 85 ​% at 1-h post-placement, decreasing significantly to 42 ​% by discharge., Conclusions: REBOA usage in remains limited but steady, primarily occurring at level 1 trauma center EDs. While short-term survival rates are favorable, they drop significantly by the time of discharge., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest Andrew D Fisher, Michael D April, Julie A Rizzo, Joseph D DuBose, and Steven G Schauer have all received funding from the Department of Defense in the form of grants to their institutions. However, there are no competing interests pertaining this particular publication., (Copyright © 2024 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Despite the success of prehospital resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) in combat and civilian settings, the prevalence of complications and the lack of conclusive evidence has led to uncertainty and controversy. Therefore, this systematic review aimed to evaluate the role of prehospital REBOA for hemorrhage control in trauma populations. We systematically searched Cochrane, Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and Google Scholar for all relevant studies that investigated the efficacy of prehospital REBOA on trauma patients with massive hemorrhage. Primary outcome was evaluated by blood pressure elevation and secondary outcome was measured by 30-day mortality and complications. Our search identified 546 studies, but only six studies met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Included studies were low to moderate quality due to limitations within the studies. However, all of the studies reported significant elevation of blood pressure and survival, demonstrating the potential benefits of REBOA. For example, the 30-day mortality rate reduced significantly after REBOA, but studies lacked long-term outcome assessments across the continuum of care. Due to the heterogeneity of the results, a meta-analysis was not possible. We conclude that prehospital REBOA is a feasible and effective resuscitative adjunct for shock patients with lethal non-compressible torso hemorrhage. However, due to the unclear causes of complications and the lack of high quality and homogeneous data, the effects of prehospital REBOA were not truly reflected and comparison between groups was not feasible. Thus, further high-quality studies are required to attest the causality between prehospital REBOA and outcomes.

Abstract Background Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) may be an adjunct treatment to cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Aortic occlusion may increase aortic pressure and increase the coronary perfusion pressure and the cerebral blood flow. Peripheral arterial blood pressure is often measured during or after CPR, however, changes in peripheral blood pressure after aortic occlusion is insufficiently described. This study aimed to assess changes in peripheral arterial blood pressure after REBOA in patients with out of hospital cardiac arrest. Methods A prospective observational study performed at the helicopter emergency medical service in Trondheim (Norway). Eligible patients received REBOA as adjunct treatment to advanced cardiac life support. Peripheral invasive arterial blood pressure and end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2) was measured before and after aortic occlusion. Differences in arterial blood pressures and EtCO2 before and after occlusion was analysed with Wilcoxon Signed Rank test. Results Five patients were included to the study. The median REBOA procedural time was 11 min and median time from dispatch to aortic occlusion was 50 min. Two patients achieved return of spontaneous circulation. EtCO2 increased significantly 60 s after occlusion, by a mean of 1.16 kPa (p = 0.043). Before occlusion the arterial pressure in the compression phase were 43.2 (range 12–112) mmHg, the mean pressure 18.6 (range 4–27) mmHg and pressure in the relaxation phase 7.8 (range − 7 – 22) mmHg. After aortic occlusion the corresponding pressures were 114.8 (range 23–241) mmHg, 44.6 (range 15–87) mmHg and 14.8 (range 0–29) mmHg. The arterial pressures were significant different in the compression phase and as mean pressure (p = 0.043 and p = 0.043, respectively) and not significant in the relaxation phase (p = 0.223). Conclusion This study is, to our knowledge, the first to assess the peripheral invasive arterial blood pressure response to aortic occlusion during CPR in the pre-hospital setting. REBOA application during CPR is associated with a significantly increase in peripheral artery pressures. This likely indicates improved central aortic blood pressure and warrants studies with simultaneous peripheral and central blood pressure measurement during aortic occlusion. Trial registration The study is registered in ClinicalTrials.gov ( NCT03534011 ).

Aim To compare in‐hospital mortality of severely injured trauma patients who underwent resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) or aortic cross‐clamping (ACC). Methods In this multicenter, retrospective cohort study using data from a nationwide trauma registry of tertiary emergency medical centers in Japan (n = 280), trauma patients who underwent aortic occlusion at the emergency department from 2004 to 2019 were divided into two groups according to the treatment they received: patients treated with ACC and patients who underwent placement of a REBOA catheter. Multiple imputations were used to handle the missing data. In‐hospital mortality of the patients who underwent REBOA or ACC was compared using a mixed‐effect logistic regression analysis and a propensity score‐matching analysis, in which the confounders, including baseline patient demographics and severity, were adjusted. Results Of 1,670 patients (1,137 with REBOA and 533 with ACC), 66% were male. The median age was 56 years, and the mortality rate was 55.2% in the REBOA group and 81.6% in the ACC group. The mixed‐effect model regression analysis showed a significantly lower odds ratio for in‐hospital mortality rate in the REBOA group (odds ratio 0.17; 95% confidence interval, 0.12–0.26). A similar odds ratio was observed in the propensity score matching analysis (odds ratio 0.27; 95% confidence interval, 0.18–0.40). Conclusion Compared with ACC, REBOA use was associated with decreased mortality in severely injured trauma patients.

Objective: Thrombectomy of the aortoiliac segment remains a challenge for surgical and endovascular revision. This study aimed to evaluate the concept of percutaneous thrombectomy in patients with aortoiliac segment occlusions.Materials& Methods: Eighteen patients with aortoiliac occlusion who underwent percutaneous thrombectomy were retrospectively identified using the local picture archive and divided into the stent-graft (N = 10) and native vessels (N  =  8) groups. The procedure was performed by placing a 12-24 French sheath adjacent to the distal end of the occluded vessel segment. The occlusion was passed with a balloon catheter which was retracted after inflation, to deliver the thrombus into the sheath. Technical success (reperfusion of the vessel and no residual thrombus/stenosis < 30%), complications and primary arterial patency were assessed. Follow-up included computed tomography angiography and evaluation of the clinical situation via telephone.Results: Technical success was achieved in 38% (7/18) of patients after percutaneous thrombectomy alone and in 100% after additional procedures. The most common complication was peripheral embolism (44%, 8/18), which was treated successfully in all cases and was linked to a mismatch between the sheath and target vessel of ≥ 1 mm (P < .01). There were no significant differences in the incidence of complications between the two groups. Primary patency was 72% (13/18) with no significant difference between groups (P  =  .94). Follow-up CT scans were available for 13/18 patients (72%), with a mean follow-up time of 270  ±  146 days. All patients were contacted via phone (follow-up time, 653  ±  264 days).Conclusion: Percutaneous thrombectomy appears to be effective for revascularization of the aortoiliac segment, both in stent-grafts and in native vessels. The most common complication is peripheral embolism; however, the risk may be reduced by choosing an adequate sheath size. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Prolonged surgical procedures and some clinical conditions such as surgeries of thoracoabdominal aorta, mesenteric ischemia, cardiopulmonary bypass, strangulated hernias and neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis may cause decreased perfusion and injury of relevant organs and tissues. After reperfusion, injuries may get worse, leading to ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury. Reperfusion following arterial clamping allows oxygen to ischemic tissues and produce injury by multiple mechanisms, including neutrophilic infiltration, intracellular adhesion molecules, and generation of reactive oxygen radicals. In this study with the analysis of SOD, MDA and Caspase-3 levels, we aimed to investigate the effect of topiramate on the outcome of I/R occured after abdominal aorta clamping on rats. Materials and Methods: Totaly 24 Sprague–Dawley male rats were randomly divided into three experimental groups; the control group (n = 8), I/R (n = 8) and I/R+ topiramate (n = 8). Topiramate (100 mg/kg/day); 50 mg/kg (single dose) was administered intraperitoneally after being diluted with saline 5 days before I/R. Results: The intestinal tissue of the ischemia group displayed hemorrhage, Crypts of Lieberkuhn degeneration, ulceration, vascular congestion and edematous fields as a result of aortic occlusion. We also observed that MDA levels and Caspase-3 positivity increased and SOD levels decreased in the small intestine. However, topiramate administration decreased Crypts of Lieberkuhn degeneration, ulceration, vascular congestion and edematous fields, Caspase-3 positivity, and MDA levels. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that topiramate is effective against aortic occlusion-induced intestinal injury by reducing oxidative stress and apoptosis.

A 57-year-old man had presented with a 6-month history of worsening dyspnea, renal failure, hypertension, pancytopenia, and a continuous machinery murmur. Imaging studies revealed pleuropericardial effusions that recurred despite aspiration and suprarenal mid-thoracic aortic occlusion (AO) with extensive collateral vessels to the chest wall, rectus sheath, and diaphragm. A right axillofemoral bypass transformed his clinical course. The murmurs, renal failure, pleuropericardial drainage, and pancytopenia resolved, and his hypertension had markedly improved. The association of chronic AO with pleuropericardial effusions without peripheral edema or ascites was most likely due to increased supradiaphragmatic interstitial pressure, and the bone marrow hypoperfusion likely explains the pancytopenia. In addition to posing diagnostic challenges, chronic AO reveals unique insights into the pathogenesis of pleuropericardial effusions and pancytopenia.

Abstract Objectives Out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) claims the lives of approximately 350,000 people in the United States each year. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) when used as an adjunct to advanced cardiac life support may improve cardio‐cerebral perfusion. Our primary research objective was to determine the feasibility of emergency department (ED)‐initiated REBOA for OHCA patients in an academic urban ED. Methods This was a single‐center, single‐arm, early feasibility trial that used REBOA as an adjunct to advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) in OHCA. Subjects under 80 years with witnessed OHCA and who received cardiopulmonary rescuitation (CPR) within 6 minutes were eligible. Results Five patients were enrolled between February 2020 and April 2021. The procedure was successful in all patients and 4 of 5 (80%) patients had transient return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after aortic occlusion. Unfortunately, all patients re‐arrested soon after intra‐aortic balloon deflation and none survived to hospital admission. At 30 seconds post‐aortic occlusion, investigators noted a statistically significant increase in end tidal carbon dioxide of 26% (95% confidence interval, 10%, 44%). Conclusion Initiating REBOA for OHCA patients in an academic urban ED setting is feasible. Aortic occlusion during chest compressions is temporally associated with improvements in end tidal carbon dioxide 30 seconds after aortic occlusion. Four of 5 patients achieved ROSC after aortic occlusion; however, deflation of the intra‐aortic balloon quickly led to re‐arrest and death in all patients. Future research should focus on the utilization of partial‐REBOA to prevent re‐arrest after ROSC, as well as the optimal way to incorporate this technique with other endovascular reperfusion strategies.

Catheter-directed mechanical thrombectomy, suction thrombectomy, and fibrinolytic therapy techniques have progressed in recent years due to technological advancement. Unfortunately, the rapid influx of new technology and the challenging design of randomized studies results in no established clinical superiority of new techniques over conservative management or open surgical procedures. Therefore, the incremental performance of new systems and instrumentation is mostly presented in case reports and observational series. Here, we report the short- and long-term procedural and clinical outcomes for 2 patients, who underwent treatments of 1) an acute, life-threatening occlusion of the infrarenal aorta, and 2) a thrombotic occlusion of the inferior vena cava and of the bilateral common and external iliac veins. The patients were treated using a new percutaneous, endovascular catheter capable of expeditiously restoring blood flow through a fresh thrombus, as well as dissolving the clot through the administration of thrombolytic.

Objectives To describe the technique of the aorta balloon occlusion, and evaluate the blood loss in lumbar spine tumor surgery assisted by aortic balloon occlusion, and to observe the balloon‐related complications. Methods Six patients with lumbar spine tumor underwent resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta prior to tumor resections in our institution between May 2018 to January 2021. Medical records including demographic, diagnosis, tumor location, surgical approach, intraoperative blood loss, surgical duration, and perioperative balloon‐related complication were evaluated retrospectively. Results This series included four males and two females, with a median age of 50 years (range 22 to 69). Of these, three primary tumors were plasmacytoma, giant cell tumor of bone, and osteosarcoma, while recurrence of undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma (UPS), recurrence of giant cell tumor of bone (GCT), and metastatic thyroid cancer were diagnosed in cases 1, 6, and 2, respectively. L2 was involved in cases 1 and 5. L3 was involved in case 6. L4 was involved in case 2, 3, and 6. L5 was involved in case 4. One‐stage total en bloc resection surgery (TES) was accomplished in all patients; of this series, signal anterior approach was conducted in case 1, signal posterior approach was utilized in cases 2, 3, and 6, while combined anterior and posterior approach was performed in cases 4 and 5. The median intraoperative blood loss was 1683 mL and ranged from 400 to 3200 mL with a median surgical duration of 442 min and a range from 210 to 810 min. During the perioperative period, no serious balloon‐related complications occurred. Conclusions Endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta successfully controls intraoperative exsanguination, contributing to a more radical tumor resection and a low rate of tumor cell contamination in lumbar tumor surgery.

Abstract Background Survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is poor and dependent on high-quality cardiopulmonary resuscitation. Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) may be advantageous in non-traumatic OHCA due to the potential benefit of redistributing the cardiac output to organs proximal to the aortic occlusion. This theory is supported by data from both preclinical studies and human case reports. Methods This multicentre trial will enrol 200 adult patients, who will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio to either a control group that receives advanced cardiovascular life support (ACLS) or an intervention group that receives ACLS and REBOA. The primary endpoint will be the proportion of patients who achieve return of spontaneous circulation with a duration of at least 20 min. The secondary objectives of this trial are to measure the proportion of patients surviving to 30 days with good neurological status, to describe the haemodynamic physiology of aortic occlusion during ACLS, and to document adverse events. Discussion Results from this study will assess the efficacy and safety of REBOA as an adjunctive treatment for non-traumatic OHCA. This novel use of REBOA may contribute to improve treatment for this patient cohort. Trial registration The trial is approved by the Regional Committee for Medical and Health Research Ethics in Norway (reference 152504) and is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (reference NCT04596514) and as Universal Trial Number WHO: U1111-1253-0322.

Background: Resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is a key procedure in sacral and pelvic tumor resection that provides hemorrhage control. However, few studies have been performed to capture the effects of REBOA in a nonshock condition and provide a detailed description of the changes occurring with prolonged occlusion time. This study aimed to examine the hemodynamic and metabolic effects of Zone 3 REBOA for sacral and pelvic tumor resections following different periods of REBOA.Methods: In total, 121 patients who underwent surgical tumor resections of the pelvis and/or the sacrum with the use of aortic balloon occlusion were prospectively enrolled from October 2020 to December 2021. All cases were divided into Group A (occlusion time ≤ 60 min, n = 57) and Group B (occlusion time ≥ 90 min, n = 64). Physiologic parameters were continuously recorded, and laboratory specimens were obtained at regular intervals.Results: Balloon inflation resulted in a significant increase in SBP from 106 to 120 mmHg and decreased to 96 mmHg immediately following balloon deflation. With the application of REBOA, the median blood loss was only 1200 ml (range, 400-7900). When deflating the REBOA, the arterial pH was lower than baseline (7.36 vs. 7.41, p < 0.01), the arterial lactate concentration increased from 0.9 to 1.4 mmol/L (p < 0.01), serum potassium measurements increased from 3.99 to 4.12 mmol/L, serum calcium measurements decreased from 2.31 to 2.04 mmol/L, and blood creatinine decreased from 64 to 60 µmol/L. The operating time of Group B was longer than that of patients in Group A, and the patients in Group B needed more blood units to be transfused. Although laboratory measurements, including pH, potassium, calcium, and blood creatinine, were at the same level in two groups comparison, the lactate was significantly higher in Group B after deflation (p = 0.01).Conclusions: The results of this study showed that acceptable hemodynamic and metabolic stability can be attained when the occlusion time of REBOA is more than 90 min, although the long duration of occlusion caused relatively higher lactate levels. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Aortic occlusion (AO) to facilitate the acute resuscitation of trauma and acute care surgery patients in shock remains a controversial topic. Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta (REBOA) is an increasingly deployed method of AO. We hypothesized that in patients with non-compressible hemorrhage below the aortic bifurcation, the use of REBOA instead of open AO may be associated with a survival benefit.Methods: From the AAST Aortic Occlusion for Resuscitation in Trauma and Acute Care Surgery (AORTA) registry, we identified 1494 patients requiring AO from 45 Level I and 4 Level II trauma centers. Presentation, intervention, and outcome variables were analyzed to compare REBOA vs open AO in patients with non-compressible hemorrhage below the aortic bifurcation.Results: From December 2014 to January 2019, 217 patients with Zone 3 REBOA or Open AO who required pelvic packing, pelvic fixation or pelvic angio-embolization were identified. Of these, 109 AO patients had injuries isolated to below the aortic bifurcation (REBOA, 84; open AO, 25). Patients with intra-abdominal or thoracic sources of bleeding, above deployment Zone 3 were excluded. Overall mortality was lower in the REBOA group (35.% vs 80%, p <.001). Excluding patients who arrived with CPR in progress, the REBOA group had lower mortality (33.33% vs. 68.75%, p = 0.012). Of the survivors, systemic complications were not significantly different between groups. In the REBOA group, 16 patients had complications secondary to vascular access. Intensive care lengths of stay and ventilator days were both significantly shorter in REBOA patients who survived to discharge.Conclusions: This study compared outcomes for patients with hemorrhage below the aortic bifurcation treated with REBOA to those treated with open AO. Survival was significantly higher in REBOA patients compared to open AO patients, while complications in survivors were not different. Given the higher survival in REBOA patients, we conclude that REBOA should be used for patients with hemorrhagic shock secondary to pelvic trauma instead of open AO.Level Iii Evidence: Therapeutic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection can lead to a constellation of viral and immune symptoms called coronavirus disease 2019. Emerging literature increasingly supports the premise that severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 promotes a prothrombotic milieu. However, to date there have been no reports of acute aortic occlusion, itself a rare phenomenon. We report a case of fatal acute aortic occlusion in a patient with coronavirus disease 2019. Case report A 59-year-old Caucasian male with past medical history of peripheral vascular disease presented to the emergency department for evaluation of shortness of breath, fevers, and dry cough. His symptoms started 5–7 days prior to the emergency department visit, and he received antibiotics in the outpatient setting without any effect. He was found to be febrile, tachypneic, and hypoxemic. He was placed on supplemental oxygen via a non-rebreather mask. Chest X-ray showed multifocal opacifications. Intravenous antibiotics for possible pneumonia were initiated. Hydroxychloroquine was initiated to cover possible coronavirus disease 2019 pneumonia. During the hospitalization, the patient became progressively hypoxemic, for which he was placed on bilevel positive airway pressure. D-dimer, ferritin, lactate dehydrogenase, and C-reactive protein were all elevated. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction was positive. On day 3, the patient was upgraded to the intensive care unit. Soon after he was intubated, he developed a mottled appearance of skin, which extended from his bilateral feet up to the level of the subumbilical plane. Bedside ultrasound revealed an absence of flow from the mid-aorta to both common iliac arteries. The patient was evaluated emergently by vascular surgery. After a discussion with the family, it was decided to proceed with comfort-directed care, and the patient died later that day. Discussion Viral infections have been identified as a source of prothrombotic states due to direct injury of vascular tissue and inflammatory cascades. Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 appears to follow a similar pattern, with numerous institutions identifying elevated levels of thrombotic complications. We believe that healthcare providers should be aware of both venous and arterial thrombotic complications associated with coronavirus disease 2019, including possible fatal outcome.

BackgroundThe duration of use and efficacy of resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is limited by distal ischemia. We developed a hybrid endovascular-extracorporeal circuit variable aortic control (VAC) device to extend REBOA duration in a lethal model of hemorrhagic shock to serve as an experimental surrogate to further the development of endovascular VAC (EVAC) technologies.MethodsNine Yorkshire-cross swine were anesthetized, instrumented, splenectomized, and subjected to 30% liver amputation. Following a short period of uncontrolled hemorrhage, REBOA was instituted for 20 minutes. Automated variable occlusion in response to changes in proximal mean arterial pressure was applied for the remaining 70 minutes of the intervention phase using the automated extracorporeal circuit. Damage-control surgery and whole blood resuscitation then occurred, and the animals were monitored for a total of 6 hours.ResultsSeven animals survived the initial surgical preparation. After 20 minutes of complete REBOA, regulated flow was initiated through the extracorporeal circuit to simulate VAC and provide perfusion to distal tissue beds during the 90-minute intervention phase. Two animals required circuit occlusion for salvage, while five animals tolerated sustained, escalating restoration of distal blood flow before surgical hemorrhage control. Animals tolerating distal flow had preserved renal function, maintained proximal blood pressure, and rapidly weaned from complete REBOA.ConclusionWe combined a novel automated, extracorporeal circuit with complete REBOA to achieve EVAC in a swine model of uncontrolled hemorrhage. Our approach regulated proximal aortic pressure, alleviated supranormal values above the balloon, and provided controlled distal aortic perfusion that reduced ischemia without inducing intolerable bleeding. This experimental model serves as a temporary surrogate to guide future EVAC catheter designs that may provide transformational approaches to hemorrhagic shock.