Endovascular aortic resuscitation balloon (REBOA) for the control of non-compressible hemorrhage of the torso. Evidence review

Abstract

Non compressible torso hemorrhage continues to be one of the main causes of mortality in trauma victims. The control of this type of bleeding requires invasive procedures such as resuscitation thoracotomy, which is performed on the patient "in extremis".

The use of REBOA has been reintroduced since 2011, as a form of endovascular occlusion of the aorta and over time it is has already part of the implements that a level I trauma center. REBOA is used within the resuscitation process, while definitive control of bleeding in the torso is carried out, in order to increase the perfusion of organs such as the brain and heart, with two main areas of occlusion at the aortic level.

Multiple investigations have been carried out to find the indications and benefits of REBOA within the comprehensive care of a patient with severe trauma, and these are still under development. Its use in a patient with severe trauma is protocolized in different steps that go from arterial access to follow-up of the extremity after removal of the sheath.

For this last point, REBOA is among the important implements of resuscitation, however, it does not replace basic concepts such as comprehensive care of the polytraumatized patient, early control of bleeding and resuscitative damage control. Its implementation requires a highly protocolized center with established trauma teams with the aim of reducing complications and optimizing survival.