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Updated: May 20, 2025

Author Spotlight: Deciphering Coagulation Disorders in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients
Published on: August 4, 2023
Acute traumatic coagulopathy: What you should know, what is debated and what should come next
Arthur James1, Elaine Cole2, Martin Dünser3
1Sorbonne Université, GRC 29, Groupe de Recherche Clinique en Anesthésie Réanimation médecine Périopératoire, ARPE, F-75012 Paris, France; APHP, Hôpital La Pitié Salpêtrière, DMU DREAM, Department of Anesthesiology and Critical Care, F-75013 Paris, France.
Abstract:
Managing acute traumatic coagulopathy involves several interventions, including tranexamic acid, plasma transfusion, factor administration, or coagulation therapy guided by viscoelastic methods. However, the range of evidence to support these strategies is variable or needs more consensus, and translation to clinical practice is challenging. To address these challenges, we propose a narrative review of randomized controlled trials published during the last two decades. This review will clarify how interventions have been evaluated, the specific populations involved, and the potential benefits and risks identified. By synthesizing the evidence from these randomized controlled trials, this review aims to provide clinicians with a clearer understanding of which strategies should change their clinical practices. Finally, this review also seeks to highlight gaps in the current literature, guiding future research and helping to establish more definitive clinical guidelines.
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