Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 19, 2026
Integrated Compensatory Responses in a Human Model of Hemorrhage
Published on: November 20, 2016
Narrowed pulse pressure predicts massive transfusion and emergent operative intervention following penetrating trauma
Jonathan Warren1, Ashkan Moazzez2, Vincent Chong2
1Division of Trauma/Acute Care Surgery/Surgical Critical Care, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, 1000 W Carson St, Torrance, CA, 90509, United States.
Introduction:
The early identification of hemorrhagic shock may be challenging. The objective of this study was to examine the utility of a narrowed pulse pressure in identifying the need for emergent interventions following penetrating trauma.
Methods:
In this 2.5-year retrospective study of adult patients with a penetrating mechanism, patients with a narrowed pulse pressure (<30 mmHg) were compared to those without. Main outcomes measures were the need for a massive transfusion or emergent operation.
Results:
There were 957 patients, of which the majority were male (86%) and 55% presented with gunshot wounds. On multivariate analysis, a narrowed pulse pressure was associated with the need for massive transfusion (OR 3.74, 95% C.I. 1.8-7.7, p = 0.0003) and emergent surgery (OR 1.68, 95% C.I. 1.14-2.48, p = 0.009).
Conclusions:
A narrowed pulse pressure is associated with the presence of hemorrhagic shock and need for emergent interventions among patients with penetrating torso trauma.
Related Concept Videos
01:24Blood Pressure
01:22Aneurysm IV: Nursing Management
01:17Measurement of Blood Pressure
01:29Pulmonary Embolism II: Diagnostic Studies and Interprofessional Care
01:10Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure
01:24Blood Pressure Imbalances and Circulatory Shock
Blood Pressure: Hypertension and Hypotension
Normal blood pressure is 120/80 mm Hg. Elevated blood pressure is 120-129/under 80 mm Hg. Hypertension, warranting treatment at 130/80 mm Hg, is often asymptomatic and can lead to severe cardiovascular events, aneurysms, peripheral arterial disease, chronic renal disease, or cardiac...