Effect of Early Vasopressin Administration in Refractory Hemorrhagic Shock.

Abstract

Background: Hemorrhagic shock management includes controlling bleeding and blood product replacement; however, vasopressor therapy may be required to maintain adequate perfusion. Studies have shown the potential benefits of early vasopressin use, but there is limited evidence of its clinical utility.

Objective: This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of early vasopressin administration in trauma patients with refractory hemorrhagic shock.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study included adult trauma patients who received more than one blood product. The primary outcome was 28-day alive and vasopressor-free days. Secondary outcomes included blood product administration, 28-day alive and ventilator-free days, and intensive care unit and hospital length of stay (LOS). Safety outcomes included the incidence of renal replacement therapy, venous thromboembolism, and fluid overload.

Results: Overall, 37 patients were included, with seven (19%) in the vasopressin group and 30 (81%) in the norepinephrine group. The study population included primarily male patients (n = 29, 78%) with blunt injuries (n = 24, 65%) and a median Injury Severity Score of 26 [IQR 17.0-34.0]. There was no difference in the primary outcome between the vasopressin and norepinephrine groups (median 25.5 [IQR 22.7-26.7] vs 26.2 days [IQR 22.7-26.7], p = .985). All secondary and safety outcomes were similar, except that the vasopressin group was associated with a longer hospital LOS (20 [IQR 18-27] vs. 13 days [IQR 8-20], p = .036).

Conclusion: Early vasopressin administration was not associated with a significant difference in 28-day alive and vasopressor-free days. However, this study was limited by its small sample size, and further studies are needed.