Use of Tourniquets in Limb Trauma Surgery

Orthop Clin North Am. 2018 Apr;49(2):157-165. doi: 10.1016/j.ocl.2017.11.004. Epub 2017 Dec 9.

Abstract

Although tourniquets are commonly used in patients with limb trauma patients, both in the acute and elective settings, no set protocols exist for their indications, contraindications, or proper use. This article addresses the current literature on optimal pressure, timing, cuff design, and complications of tourniquets in trauma patients. General issues are discussed, followed by those specific to upper and lower extremities. Lastly, serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism, are described.

Keywords: Cuff pressure; Cuff width; Exsanguination; Orthopedic limb trauma; Tourniquet; Tourniquet design.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Arm Injuries / diagnosis
  • Arm Injuries / surgery*
  • Emergency Medical Services / methods*
  • Equipment Design
  • Equipment Safety
  • Female
  • Follow-Up Studies
  • Hemostatic Techniques / instrumentation
  • Humans
  • Injury Severity Score
  • Leg Injuries / diagnosis
  • Leg Injuries / surgery*
  • Male
  • Preoperative Care / methods
  • Tourniquets / adverse effects
  • Tourniquets / statistics & numerical data*
  • Treatment Outcome