Effectiveness of External Hemorrhage Compression Device of the Abdominal Aorta in Hemorrhagic Shock: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Abstract

Introduction: Severe hemorrhage, notably non-compressible torso hemorrhage (NCTH) leading to hemorrhagic shock and traumatic cardiac arrest (TCA), represents a critical and challenging condition in trauma resuscitation. Despite advancements in hemorrhage control for extremities, NCTH continues to present a significant barrier to survival, particularly in the prehospital setting. The abdominal aortic and junctional tour-niquet (AAJT), an external hemorrhage control device, has emerged as a promising tool for addressing junctional and abdominal hemorrhages, yet its clinical effectiveness remains inadequately explored. This review assesses the efficacy of the AAJT in improving survival rates in patients with hemorrhagic shock.

Methods: A systematic literature search was conducted per PRISMA guidelines. Only English-language publications published between 2019 and 2024 were included.

Results: Of the nine relevant publications identified, one was a descriptive case series, seven were animal model studies, and one examined the practicality of the AAJT when tested by combat medic technicians.

Conclusions: The sparse literature did not permit a proper systematic analysis or conclusions on the clinical effectiveness of AAJT in human patients. The AAJT remains a forward-thinking and viable option for improving trauma resuscitation protocols. Further studies, particularly randomized and controlled clinical trials, are required to advance this research.