Implementing thrombelastography: Experiences from a level I trauma institution

Alexandra Dixon, Samantha Underwood, Martin Schreiber

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

2 Scopus citations

Abstract

Viscoelastic hemostatic assays such as thrombelastography (TEG) and rotational thrombelastometry have proven to be important point-of-care tools in the management of acute traumatic hemorrhage. Despite the availability of prospective studies that have confirmed the utility of TEG in reducing transfusion requirements and mortality in bleeding patients when compared to conventional coagulation tests, many institutions run into barriers implementing these viscoelastic hemostatic assays due to concerns regarding cost and benefit. At our academic Level 1 trauma institution, the Division of Trauma, Critical Care, and Acute Care Surgery advocated for the addition of TEG to the clinical armamentarium of providers caring for injured patients and thus spearheaded the clinical implementation of TEG. With the approval of the central laboratory, the Division developed an extensive and well-trained team to run and interpret TEGs as well as perform machine validation and upkeep. The Division continues to perform point-of-care testing throughout the hospital today.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)S29-S32
JournalTransfusion
Volume60
Issue numberS6
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2020

Keywords

  • administration
  • transfusion practices (adult)

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology
  • Hematology

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