Evaluating time until ligation in a novel tourniquet - A crossover randomized-controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Emergency Medicine
• Trauma Care
• Medical Device Innovation

Background:

• Severe external hemorrhage is a leading cause of preventable death.
• Rapid tourniquet application by laypersons can be life-saving.
• Evaluating novel tourniquet devices is crucial for improving outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the efficacy and application time of a novel tourniquet (PAX).
• To compare the PAX tourniquet with established devices (SAM, CAT).
• To assess learning effects and physiological changes using hyperspectral measurements.

Main Methods:

• A randomized-controlled cross-over study involving 50 medical personnel without prior tourniquet experience.
• Participants were randomized to apply the PAX tourniquet or control tourniquets (SAM/CAT).
• Time to ligation, success rate, and hyperspectral measurements were recorded.

Main Results:

• The PAX tourniquet demonstrated a high success rate (98%) with an average ligation time of 49 seconds.
• Significant differences in application times were noted between specific tourniquet models (PAX vs. SAM, SAM vs. CAT).
• Hyperspectral imaging confirmed expected physiological changes in perfusion and oxygenation.

Conclusions:

• The novel PAX tourniquet is quickly and effectively applied by medical personnel with no prior experience.
• The PAX tourniquet represents a viable option for managing severe external hemorrhage.
• Further research may explore its use in diverse populations and pre-hospital settings.