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Thrombelastography (TEG(®) 6s) early amplitudes predict maximum amplitude in severely injured trauma patients
Vigstedt M, Baksaas-Aasen K, Henriksen HH, Maegele M, Stanworth S, Juffermans NP, Kolstadbråten KM, Naess PA, Brohi K, Gaarder C, et al
Scandinavian journal of clinical and laboratory investigation. 2022;:1-5
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
Severely injured trauma patients are often coagulopathic and early hemostatic resuscitation is essential. Previous studies have revealed linear relationships between thrombelastography (TEG(®)) five- and ten-min amplitudes (A5 and A10), and maximum amplitude (MA), using TEG(®) 5000 technology. We aimed to investigate the performance of A5 and A10 in predicting low MA in severely injured trauma patients and identify optimal cut-off values for hemostatic intervention based on early amplitudes, using the cartridge-based TEG(®) 6s technology. Adult trauma patients with hemorrhagic shock were included in the iTACTIC randomized controlled trial at six European Level I trauma centers between 2016 and 2018. After admission, patients were randomized to hemostatic therapy guided by conventional coagulation tests (CCT) or viscoelastic hemostatic assays (VHA). Patients with available admission-TEG(®) 6s data were included in the analysis, regardless of treatment allocation. Low MA was defined as <55 mm for Kaolin TEG(®) and RapidTEG(®), and <17 mm for TEG(®) functional fibrinogen (FF). One hundred eighty-seven patients were included. Median time to MA was 20 (Kaolin TEG(®)), 21 (RapidTEG(®)) and 12 (TEG(®) FF) min. For Kaolin TEG(®), the optimal Youden index (YI) was at A5 < 36 mm (100/93% sensitivity/specificity) and A10 < 47 mm (100/96% sensitivity/specificity). RapidTEG(®) optimal YI was at A5 < 34 mm (98/92% sensitivity/specificity) and A10 < 45 mm (96/95% sensitivity/specificity). TEG(®) FF optimal YI was at A5 < 12 mm (97/93% sensitivity/specificity) and A10 < 15 mm (97/99% sensitivity/specificity). In summary, we found that TEG(®) 6s early amplitudes were sensitive and specific predictors of MA in severely injured trauma patients. Intervening on early amplitudes can save valuable time in hemostatic resuscitation.
PICO Summary
Population
Adult trauma patients with haemorrhagic shock enrolled in the iTACTIC study at six European trauma centers (n= 187).
Intervention
Haemostatic therapy guided by conventional coagulation tests (CCT).
Comparison
Viscoelastic haemostatic assays (VHA).
Outcome
The study aimed to investigate the performance of A5 and A10 in predicting low maximum amplitude (MA), and to identify optimal cut-off values for haemostatic intervention based on early amplitudes, using the cartridge-based TEG® 6s technology. Patients with available admission-TEG® 6s data were included in the analysis, regardless of treatment allocation. Low MA was defined as <55 mm for Kaolin TEG® and RapidTEG®, and <17 mm for TEG® functional fibrinogen (FF). Median time to MA was 20 (Kaolin TEG®), 21 (RapidTEG®) and 12 (TEG® FF) min. For Kaolin TEG®, the optimal Youden index (YI) was at A5 < 36 mm (100/93% sensitivity/specificity) and A10 < 47 mm (100/96% sensitivity/specificity). RapidTEG® optimal YI was at A5 < 34 mm (98/92% sensitivity/specificity) and A10 < 45 mm (96/95% sensitivity/specificity). TEG® FF optimal YI was at A5 < 12 mm (97/93% sensitivity/specificity) and A10 < 15 mm (97/99% sensitivity/specificity).
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Platelet-to-red blood cell ratio and mortality in bleeding trauma patients: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Kleinveld DJB, van Amstel RBE, Wirtz MR, Geeraedts LMG, Goslings JC, Hollmann MW, Juffermans NP
Transfusion. 2021;61 Suppl 1:S243-s251
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
BACKGROUND In traumatic bleeding, transfusion practice has shifted toward higher doses of platelets and plasma transfusion. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate whether a higher platelet-to-red blood cell (RBC) transfusion ratio improves mortality without worsening organ failure when compared with a lower ratio of platelet-to-RBC. METHODS Pubmed, Medline, and Embase were screened for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in bleeding trauma patients (age ≥16 years) receiving platelet transfusion between 1946 until October 2020. High platelet:RBC ratio was defined as being the highest ratio within an included study. Primary outcome was 24 hour mortality. Secondary outcomes were 30-day mortality, thromboembolic events, organ failure, and correction of coagulopathy. RESULTS In total five RCTs (n = 1757 patients) were included. A high platelet:RBC compared with a low platelet:RBC ratio significantly improved 24 hour mortality (odds ratio [OR] 0.69 [0.53-0.89]) and 30- day mortality (OR 0.78 [0.63-0.98]). There was no difference between platelet:RBC ratio groups in thromboembolic events and organ failure. Correction of coagulopathy was reported in five studies, in which platelet dose had no impact on trauma-induced coagulopathy. CONCLUSIONS In traumatic bleeding, a high platelet:RBC improves mortality as compared to low platelet:RBC ratio. The high platelet:RBC ratio does not influence thromboembolic or organ failure event rates.
PICO Summary
Population
Bleeding trauma patients receiving platelet transfusion (5 studies, n= 1,757).
Intervention
Higher platelet-to-red blood cell (RBC) transfusion ratio.
Comparison
Lower ratio of platelet-to-RBC.
Outcome
A high platelet:RBC compared with a low platelet:RBC ratio significantly improved 24 hour mortality (odds ratio (OR) 0.69 (0.53-0.89)) and 30- day mortality (OR 0.78 (0.63-0.98)). There was no difference between platelet:RBC ratio groups in thromboembolic events and organ failure. Correction of coagulopathy was reported in five studies, in which platelet dose had no impact on trauma-induced coagulopathy.
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Viscoelastic haemostatic assay augmented protocols for major trauma haemorrhage (ITACTIC): a randomized, controlled trial
Baksaas-Aasen K, Gall LS, Stensballe J, Juffermans NP, Curry N, Maegele M, Brooks A, Rourke C, Gillespie S, Murphy J, et al
Intensive care medicine. 2020
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
PURPOSE Contemporary trauma resuscitation prioritizes control of bleeding and uses major haemorrhage protocols (MHPs) to prevent and treat coagulopathy. We aimed to determine whether augmenting MHPs with Viscoelastic Haemostatic Assays (VHA) would improve outcomes compared to Conventional Coagulation Tests (CCTs). METHODS This was a multi-centre, randomized controlled trial comparing outcomes in trauma patients who received empiric MHPs, augmented by either VHA or CCT-guided interventions. Primary outcome was the proportion of subjects who, at 24 h after injury, were alive and free of massive transfusion (10 or more red cell transfusions). Secondary outcomes included 28-day mortality. Pre-specified subgroups included patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). RESULTS Of 396 patients in the intention to treat analysis, 201 were allocated to VHA and 195 to CCT-guided therapy. At 24 h, there was no difference in the proportion of patients who were alive and free of massive transfusion (VHA: 67%, CCT: 64%, OR 1.15, 95% CI 0.76-1.73). 28-day mortality was not different overall (VHA: 25%, CCT: 28%, OR 0.84, 95% CI 0.54-1.31), nor were there differences in other secondary outcomes or serious adverse events. In pre-specified subgroups, there were no differences in primary outcomes. In the pre-specified subgroup of 74 patients with TBI, 64% were alive and free of massive transfusion at 24 h compared to 46% in the CCT arm (OR 2.12, 95% CI 0.84-5.34). CONCLUSION There was no difference in overall outcomes between VHA- and CCT-augmented-major haemorrhage protocols.
PICO Summary
Population
Trauma patients from the ITACTIC trial (n= 396).
Intervention
Empiric major haemorrhage protocols (MHPs) augmented by Viscoelastic Haemostatic Assays (VHA), (n= 201).
Comparison
Interventions guided by Conventional Coagulation Tests (CCTs), (n= 195).
Outcome
At 24 h, there was no difference in the proportion of patients who were alive and free of massive transfusion (VHA: 67%, CCT: 64%). 28-day mortality was not different overall (VHA: 25%, CCT: 28%), nor were there differences in other secondary outcomes or serious adverse events. In pre-specified subgroups which included patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), there were no differences in primary outcomes. In the pre-specified subgroup of 74 patients with TBI, 64% were alive and free of massive transfusion at 24 h compared to 46% in the CCT arm.
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The impact of blood product ratio and procoagulant therapy on the development of thromboembolic events in severely injured hemorrhaging trauma patients
Wirtz MR, Schalkers DV, Goslings JC, Juffermans NP
Transfusion. 2020
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Editor's Choice
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Transfusion therapy in hemorrhaging trauma patients is associated with the development of thromboembolic events. It is unknown whether current resuscitation strategies, including large volumes of plasma and early administration of procoagulant therapy, increases this risk. METHODS A systematic search was conducted in MEDLINE, PubMed, and Embase. Studies were screened by two independent reviewers and included if they reported on thromboembolic events in patients with severe trauma (injury severity score ≥16) who received transfusion of at least 1 unit of red blood cells. The ratio by which blood products were transfused, as well as use of procoagulant or antifibrinolytic medication, was recorded. RESULTS A total of 40 studies with 11.074 bleeding trauma patients were included, in which 1.145 thromboembolic events were reported, yielding an incidence of 10% thromboembolic events. In studies performing routine screening for thromboembolic complications, the incidence ranged from 12% to 23%. The risk of thromboembolic events was increased after administration of tranexamic acid (TXA; odds ratio [OR], 2.6; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.7-4.1; p < 0.001) and fibrinogen concentrate (OR, 2.1; 95% CI, 1.0-4.2; p = 0.04). Blood product ratio, the use of prothrombin complex concentrate or recombinant factor VIIa were not associated with thromboembolic events. CONCLUSION This systematic review identified an incidence of thromboembolic events of 10% in severely injured bleeding trauma patients. The use of TXA and fibrinogen concentrate was associated with the development of thromboembolic complications.
PICO Summary
Population
Patients with severe trauma who received transfusion of at least 1 unit of red blood cells (40 studies, n= 11074).
Intervention
Systematic review on the incidence of thromboembolic events.
Comparison
Outcome
A total of 1145 thromboembolic events were reported, yielding an incidence of 10% thromboembolic events. In studies performing routine screening for thromboembolic complications, the incidence ranged from 12% to 23%. The risk of thromboembolic events was increased after administration of tranexamic acid and fibrinogen concentrate. Blood product ratio, the use of prothrombin complex concentrate or recombinant factor VIIa were not associated with thromboembolic events.
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Are there any alternatives for transfusion of AB plasma as universal donor in an emergency release setting?
Balvers K, Saleh S, Zeerleder SS, Klinkspoor JH, Goslings JC, Juffermans NP
Transfusion. 2016;56((6):):1469-74
Abstract
BACKGROUND AB plasma is used as the universal donor plasma product in patients requiring massive transfusion. However, currently it is a recommended policy to transfuse plasma derived from male donors only as transfusion of plasma from HLA antibody-positive female donors is associated with an increased risk for transfusion-related acute lung injury. As a result, due to high demands, supplies of blood banks may run out of AB plasma, calling for alternatives. Therefore, the aim of this review was to investigate alternatives for emergency release of AB plasma as the universal donor. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A systematic search was conducted in Embase and PubMed. Studies on adult patients, who were transfused with at least 1 unit of plasma, investigating the incidence of transfusion-related complications or mortality in patients transfused with ABO-identical, ABO-compatible, or ABO-incompatible plasma were eligible for inclusion. The primary outcomes were the incidence of transfusion-related complications and mortality. RESULTS In total six studies were included. Transfusion of ABO-compatible plasma was associated with an increased incidence of lung injury and mortality (odds ratio, 1.10; 95% confidence interval, 1.04-1.15; p = 0.0003) compared to transfusion of ABO-identical plasma. No significant differences were observed regarding transfusion-related complications and mortality between patients transfused with ABO-compatible or ABO-incompatible plasma. DISCUSSION Studies are insufficient to formulate advice about alternatives for transfusion of AB plasma as universal donor plasma in the emergency setting due to the small number of studies. The results of this review underline the need for further research.
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Risk factors for trauma-induced coagulopathy and transfusion-associated multiple organ failure in severely injured trauma patients
Balvers K, Wirtz MR, van Dieren S, Goslings JC, Juffermans NP
Frontiers in Medicine. 2015;2:24
Abstract
BACKGROUND Both trauma-induced coagulopathy (TIC) and transfusion strategies influence early outcome in hemorrhagic trauma patients. Their impact on late outcome is less well characterized. This study systematically reviews risk factors for TIC- and transfusion-associated multiple organ failure (MOF) in severely injured trauma patients. MATERIALS AND METHODS A systematic search was conducted in PubMed and Embase. Studies published from 1986 to 2013 on adult trauma patients with an injury severity score >16, investigating TIC or transfusion strategies with MOF as primary or secondary outcome, were eligible for inclusion. Results of the included studies were evaluated with meta-analyses of pooled data. RESULTS In total, 50 studies were included with a total sample size of 63,586 patients. Due to heterogeneity of the study populations and outcome measures, results from 7 studies allowed for pooling of data. Risk factors for TIC-associated MOF were hypocoagulopathy, hemorrhagic shock, activated protein C, increased histone levels, and increased levels of markers of fibrinolysis on admission. After at least 24h after admission, the occurrence of thromboembolic events was associated with MOF. Risk factors for transfusion-associated MOF were the administration of fluids and red blood cell units within 24h post-injury, the age of red blood cells (>14days) and a ratio of FFP:RBC>1:1 (OR 1.11, 95% CI 1.04-1.19). CONCLUSION Risk factors for TIC-associated MOF in severely injured trauma patients are early hypocoagulopathy and hemorrhagic shock, while a hypercoagulable state with the occurrence of thromboembolic events later in the course of trauma predisposes to MOF. Risk factors for transfusion-associated MOF include administration of crystalloids and red blood cells and a prolonged storage time of red blood cells. Future prospective studies investigating TIC- and transfusion-associated risk factors on late outcome are required.
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Effect of transfusion of fresh frozen plasma on parameters of endothelial condition and inflammatory status in non-bleeding critically ill patients: a prospective substudy of a randomized trial
Straat M, Muller MC, Meijers JC, Arbous MS, Spoelstra-de Man AM, Beurskens CJ, Vroom MB, Juffermans NP
Critical Care (London, England). 2015;19((1):):163.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Much controversy exists on the effect of a fresh frozen plasma (FFP) transfusion on systemic inflammation and endothelial damage. Adverse effects of FFP have been well described, including acute lung injury. However, it is also suggested that a higher amount of FFP decreases mortality in trauma patients requiring a massive transfusion. Furthermore, FFP has an endothelial stabilizing effect in experimental models. We investigated the effect of fresh frozen plasma transfusion on systemic inflammation and endothelial condition. METHODS A prospective predefined substudy of a randomized trial in coagulopathic non-bleeding critically ill patients receiving a prophylactic transfusion of FFP (12 ml/kg) prior to an invasive procedure. Levels of inflammatory cytokines and markers of endothelial condition were measured in paired samples of 33 patients before and after transfusion. The statistical tests used were paired t test or the Wilcoxon signed-rank test. RESULTS At baseline, systemic cytokine levels were mildly elevated in critically ill patients. FFP transfusion resulted in a decrease of levels of TNF-alpha (from 11.3 to 2.3 pg/ml, P=0.01). Other cytokines were not affected. FFP also resulted in a decrease in systemic syndecan-1 levels (from 675 to 565 pg/ml, P=0.01) and a decrease in factor VIII levels (from 246 to 246%, P <0.01), suggestive of an improved endothelial condition. This was associated with an increase in ADAMTS13 levels (from 24 to 32%, P <0.01) and a concomitant decrease in von Willebrand factor (vWF) levels (from 474 to 423%, P <0.01). CONCLUSIONS A fixed dose of FFP transfusion in critically ill patients decreases syndecan-1 and factor VIII levels, suggesting a stabilized endothelial condition, possibly by increasing ADAMTS13, which is capable of cleaving vWF. TRIAL REGISTRATIONS Trialregister.nl NTR2262 , registered 26 March 2010 and Clinicaltrials.gov NCT01143909 , registered 14 June 2010.
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Transfusion of fresh-frozen plasma in critically ill patients with a coagulopathy before invasive procedures: a randomized clinical trial (CME)
Muller MC, Arbous MS, Spoelstra-de Man AM, Vink R, Karakus A, Straat M, Binnekade JM, de Jonge E, Vroom MB, Juffermans NP
Transfusion. 2015;55((1):):26-35.
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BACKGROUND Prophylactic use of fresh-frozen plasma (FFP) is common practice in patients with a coagulopathy undergoing an invasive procedure. Evidence that FFP prevents bleeding is lacking, while risks of transfusion-related morbidity after FFP have been well demonstrated. We aimed to assess whether omitting prophylactic FFP transfusion in nonbleeding critically ill patients with a coagulopathy who undergo an intervention is noninferior to a prophylactic transfusion of FFP. STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS A multicenter randomized open-label trial with blinded endpoint evaluation was performed in critically ill patients with a prolonged international normalized ratio (INR; 1.5-3.0). Patients undergoing placement of a central venous catheter, percutaneous tracheostomy, chest tube, or abscess drainage were eligible. Patients with clinically overt bleeding, thrombocytopenia, or therapeutic use of anticoagulants were excluded. Patients were randomly assigned to omitting or administering a prophylactic transfusion of FFP (12mL/kg). Outcomes were occurrence of postprocedural bleeding complications, INR correction, and occurrence of lung injury. RESULTS Due to slow inclusion, the trial was stopped before the predefined target enrollment was reached. Eighty-one patients were randomly assigned, 40 to FFP and 41 to no FFP transfusion. Incidence of bleeding did not differ between groups, with a total of one major and 13 minor bleedings (p=0.08 for noninferiority). FFP transfusion resulted in a reduction of INR to less than 1.5 in 54% of transfused patients. No differences in lung injury scores were observed. CONCLUSION In critically ill patients undergoing an invasive procedure, no difference in bleeding complications was found regardless whether FFP was prophylactically administered or not.Copyright 2014 AABB.
Clinical Commentary
Dr Simon Stanworth, NHS Blood & Transplant, Oxford, UK
What is known?
Audits continue to document that a common reason for transfusion of plasma is to non-bleeding critically ill patients with laboratory measures of abnormal coagulopathy and prior to invasive procedures. Although the broader observational literature argues against benefit for this practice, evidence from randomized controlled trials is very limited.
What did this paper set out to examine?
This paper describes a multi-centred randomized open-label trial in adult critically ill patients to determine whether FFP transfusion could be safely omitted prior to invasive procedures. The patients admitted to critical care were prospectively screened between 2010 and 2013 for prolongation of the INR. Patients fulfilling the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to receive or not to receive a single dose of 12mg of FFP prior to defined invasive procedures which included insertion of a central venous catheter, for thoracocentesis, percutaneous tracheostomy, drainage of abscess or fluid collection. The primary outcome of the study was procedure related bleeding occurring within 24 hours after the procedure. Bleeding was assessed using a tool previously validated and published in the critically ill population. For this tool, major bleeding was defined if bleeding accompanied by any of the following; a decrease in Hb by more that 2g/dL in the absence of another course of bleeding, transfusion of two or more units of red cells without an increase in Hb, a decrease in systolic blood pressure by more that 20mmHg, an increase in heart rate or wound related bleeding requiring specific intervention.
What did they show?
Due to slow patient accrual the trial was stopped before the predefined target enrolment was reached which was indicated to be a sample size in each arm of 198 patients. 81 patients were randomly assigned, 42 FFP and 41 to no FFP transfusion. The incidence of bleeding did not differ between the two study group arms. One major bleed was reported but although this event rate was consistent with the prediction of the researchers, the lower event rate was considered too small to complete a planned inferiority analysis. There were 13 minor bleeds recorded but there is some uncertainty about these numbers given that the clinical significance of these events is unclear. It was also noted that transfusion resulted in a reduction of INR to less than 1.5 in 54% of the transfused patients. No differences were reported in lung injuries scores between the arms.
What are the implications for practice and for future work?
The researchers are to be commended for attempting to address a clinical important research question: that of the role of plasma transfusion prior to invasive procedures in critically ill patients. Unfortunately the trial failed to recruit to target and the findings are not able to provide the level of evidence required to refute a clinical role for plasma in this setting. There is a need for research to address the best diagnostic tests as well as the optimal role of plasma or other pro-haemostatic coagulation factors. Arguably another lesson from this trial is the value of pilot trials ahead of a larger trial which might, for example, identify issues with recruitment.
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Fresh frozen plasma transfusion fails to influence the hemostatic balance in critically ill patients with a coagulopathy
Muller MC, Straat M, Meijers JC, Klinkspoor JH, de Jonge E, Arbous MS, Schultz MJ, Vroom MB, Juffermans NP
Journal of Thrombosis & Haemostasis. 2015;13((6)):989-97.
Abstract
BACKGROUND Coagulopathy has a high prevalence in critically ill patients. An increased International Normalized Ratio (INR) is a common trigger to transfuse fresh frozen plasma (FFP), even in the absence of bleeding. Therefore, FFP is frequently administered to these patients. However, the efficacy of FFP in correcting hemostatic disorders in non-bleeding recipients has been questioned. OBJECTIVES To assess whether INR prolongation parallels changes in the results of other tests investigating hemostasis, and to evaluate the coagulant effects of a fixed dose of FFP in non-bleeding critically ill patients with a coagulopathy. METHODS Markers of coagulation, individual factor levels and levels of natural anticoagulants were measured. Also, thrombin generation and thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assays were performed before and after FFP transfusion (12 mL kg(-1) ) to 38 non-bleeding critically ill patients with an increased INR (1.5-3.0). RESULTS At baseline, levels of factor II, FV, FVII, protein C, protein S and antithrombin were reduced, and thrombin generation was impaired. ROTEM variables were within reference ranges, except for a prolonged INTEM clot formation time. FFP transfusion increased the levels of coagulation factors (FII, 34% [interquartile range (IQR) 26-46] before vs. 44% [IQR 38-52] after; FV, 48% [IQR 28-76] before vs. 58% [IQR 44-90] after; and FVII, 25% [IQR 16-38] before vs. 37% [IQR 28-55] after), and the levels of anticoagulant proteins. Thrombin generation was unaffected by FFP transfusion (endogenous thrombin potential, 72% [IQR 51-88] before vs. 71% [IQR 42-89] after), whereas ROTEM EXTEM clotting time and maximum clot firmness slightly improved in response to FFP. CONCLUSION In non-bleeding critically ill patients with a coagulopathy, FFP transfusion failed to induce a more procoagulant state.Copyright © 2015 International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis. RN 0 (Biomarkers). ES 1538-7836 IL 1538-7836
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Utility of thromboelastography and/or thromboelastometry in adults with sepsis: a systematic review
Muller MC, Meijers JC, Vroom MB, Juffermans NP
Critical Care (London, England). 2014;18((2):):R30.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Coagulation abnormalities are frequent in sepsis. Conventional coagulation assays, however, have several limitations. A surge of interest exists in the use of point-of-care tests to diagnose hypo- and hypercoagulability in sepsis. METHODS MEDLINE, EMBASE, and the Cochrane Library were searched from 1 January 1980 to 31 December 2012. The search was limited to adults, and language was limited to English. Reference lists of retrieved articles were hand-searched for additional studies. Ongoing trials were searched on http://www.controlled-trials.com and http://www.clinicaltrials.gov. Studies addressing TEG/ROTEM measurements in adult patients with sepsis admitted to the ICU were considered eligible. RESULTS Of 680 screened articles, 18 studies were included, of which two were randomized controlled trials, and 16 were observational cohort studies. In patients with sepsis, results show both hyper- and hypocoagulability, as well as TEG/ROTEM values that fell within reference values. Both hyper- and hypocoagulability were to some extent associated with diffuse intravascular coagulation. Compared with conventional coagulation tests, TEG/ROTEM can detect impaired fibrinolysis, which can possibly help to discriminate between sepsis and systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS). A hypocoagulable profile is associated with increased mortality. The value of TEG/ROTEM to identify patients with sepsis who could possibly benefit from therapies interfering with the coagulation system could not be assessed, because studies addressing this topic were limited. CONCLUSION TEG/ROTEM could be a promising tool in diagnosing alterations in coagulation in sepsis. Further research on the value of TEG/ROTEM in these patients is warranted. Given that coagulopathy is a dynamic process, sequential measurements are needed to understand the coagulation patterns in sepsis, as can be detected by TEG/ROTEM.