This study compares the 10-g AC to the 14-g AC for decompression of a tPTX and rescue from a tension-induced pulseless electrical activity (tPEA) in the setting of 30% estimated blood volume loss without hemothorax. The authors hypothesized the 10-g AC would be more effective and have a faster rescue from tension physiology than the 14-g AC currently used by most EMS systems.
This was an animal study utilizing anesthetized pigs. The researchers placed arterial and venous lines for hemodynamic monitoring. They then placed 12-mm trocars through each diaphragm through which they could infuse carbon dioxide to simulate a tension pneumothorax. The pigs were bled to an estimated 30% blood volume loss to simulate hemorrhagic shock. Decompression devices were inserted at the second and third IC…
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