Haemorrhage control in extremity stab injury

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Emergency Medicine
• Vascular Surgery

Background:

• Penetrating cardiac injuries have utilized Foley catheters for bleeding control during surgery.
• Controlling massive hemorrhage in extremity injuries remains a critical challenge in emergency settings.

Observation:

• A novel application of a urinary catheter was employed to manage hemorrhage from a stab wound to an extremity.
• This technique aimed to achieve hemodynamic stability in a patient awaiting definitive surgical treatment.

Findings:

• The urinary catheter effectively controlled external hemorrhage by internalizing applied pressure, similar to its use in cardiac injuries.
• The technique proved quick, easy, and useful for junctional vascular injuries and wounds with narrow necks.

Implications:

• This method offers a life-saving, simple, and cost-effective approach to managing massive hemorrhage in extremity trauma.
• The technique can be easily removed in the operating room or sutured for patient transfer, enhancing its versatility.