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Effectiveness of non invasive external pelvic compression: a systematic review of the literature
Peyman Bakhshayesh1, Tarek Boutefnouchet2, Anna Tötterman3
1Department of Orthopaedics, Karolinska University Hospital, Karolinksa vägen, 17176, Solna, Stockholm, Sweden. peyman.bakhshayesh@karolinska.se.
Insights
Pelvic circumferential compression devices (PCCDs) are used for suspected pelvic bleeding, with evidence suggesting they stabilize pelvic rings. However, complications exist, and future research should address effectiveness and bleeding sources.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
- Orthopedics
Background:
- Pelvic fractures pose a significant bleeding risk.
- Pelvic circumferential compression devices (PCCDs) aid initial management of pelvic injuries in poly-trauma patients.
- Existing literature on PCCD efficacy and safety is reviewed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review the literature for evidence on the efficacy and safety of pelvic circumferential compression devices (PCCDs).
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search using PRISMA guidelines across major databases (PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase, Scopus).
- Inclusion of English language articles published between 1999 and 2015.
- Narrative data synthesis for study appraisal.
Main Results:
- Seven articles examined mechanical properties, six focused on physiological aspects, and three evaluated pressure characteristics of PCCDs.
- Four case reports detailed adverse effects associated with PCCD use.
- No studies addressed cost-effectiveness or pain relief related to PCCDs.
Conclusions:
- PCCDs are commonly used for suspected pelvic bleeding, with evidence supporting their role in reducing pelvic ring disruption.
- Complications following PCCD application have been reported.
- Future studies should investigate the hemorrhagic source and physiological effectiveness of PCCDs, while judicious application remains recommended.
Introduction:
Pelvic fractures might carry a significant risk of bleeding. A wide variety of pelvic binders together with pelvic sheets are available and offer an adjunct to the initial management of poly-trauma patients with pelvic injuries. These devices are collectively referred to as pelvic circumferential compression devices (PCCDs). The aim of this study was to review the literature for evidence pertinent to the efficacy and safety of PCCDs.
Methods:
Using the PRISMA guidelines a systematic search on PubMed, Web of Science, CINAHL, Embase and Scopus was carried out. Articles included were in English language and published between 1999 and 2015. Studies included were appraised with narrative data synthesis.
Results:
Seven articles addressed mechanical properties of non-invasive external mechanical devices, six articles focused on physiological aspects, and three studies evaluated the pressure characteristics of these devices. We found 4 case reports regarding adverse effects. None of the studies identified addressed the cost effectiveness or pain relief issues related to the use of PCCDs.
Conclusions:
Based on available literature, PCCDs are widely used in the initial management of patients with suspected pelvic bleeding. There is evidence to suggest that external compression reduces disrupted pelvic rings. There are some complications reported following application of PCCDs. Hemorrhagic source and physiological effectiveness of PCCDs needs to be addressed in future studies. In the meantime judicious application of PCCDs will continue to be recommended.
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