Research Paper Title

Tactical Damage Control Resuscitation.

Abstract

Recently the Committee on Tactical Combat Casualty Care changed the guidelines on fluid use in haemorrhagic shock.

The current strategy for treating haemorrhagic shock is based on early use of components:

• Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs);
• Fresh Frozen Plasma (FFP); and
• Platelets in a 1:1:1 ratio.

The researchers suggest that lack of components to mimic whole blood functionality favours the use of Fresh Whole Blood in managing haemorrhagic shock on the battlefield.

They present a safe and practical approach for its use at the point of injury in the combat environment called Tactical Damage Control Resuscitation.

They describe pre-deployment preparation, assessment of hemorrhagic shock, and collection and transfusion of fresh whole blood at the point of injury.

By approaching shock with goal-directed therapy, it is possible to extend the period of survivability in combat casualties.

Reference

Fisher, A.D., Miles, E.A., Cap, A.P., Strandenes, G. & Kane, S.F. (2016) Tactical Damage Control Resuscitation. Military Medicine. 180(8), pp.869-75. doi: 10.7205/MILMED-D-14-00721.