Contemporary uses of trauma video review: a scoping review

Trauma resuscitations are sporadic, high-acuity situations and conducting observation in the trauma bay for the purpose of quality improvement is challenging. We aim to review contemporary uses of trauma video review.

Medline and Embase were searched from 1980 to May 2020 for studies involving trauma video review. English studies of adult and paediatric populations were included for study and analysed for uses of trauma video review, outcomes measured and any resulting quality improvement (QI) initiatives.

A total of 463 publications were identified with 21 studies meeting eligibility for final inclusion. A majority of studies (11) observed technical skills with analysis of critical procedures, including tracheal intubation and thoracotomy. The remaining studies observed team dynamics and communication. Overall, eight studies resulted in new policies being put in place for trauma resuscitations and six studies utilized trauma video review as an educational tool.

This study highlights common uses of trauma video review. The greatest benefit for this new technology is in quality improvement and education. The majority of studies focussed on critical procedures and QI initiatives, such as checklists, protocols and continued education. We recommend adoption of video review systems for ongoing improvement of team dynamics and overall trauma and emergency resuscitation.