Personalized tourniquet pressure versus uniform tourniquet pressure in orthopedic trauma surgery of extremities: A prospective randomized controlled study protocol

Background

In the field of orthopedic surgery, tourniquets are often used to achieve a clear operative field, expedite operations, and minimize hemorrhagic events. However, determining the optimal tourniquet inflation pressure is a topic of debate. The current approach involves using a constant tourniquet pressure, although this is associated with the potential to augment the risk of tourniquet-associated complications. The Association of Surgical Technologists recommends a tourniquet pressure of systolic blood pressure plus 50 mm Hg for the upper limb and 100 mm Hg for the lower limb. Nevertheless, this method lacks robust support from high-quality medical literature. Therefore, the study aimed to compare the hemostatic efficacy and disparities in tourniquet pressure settings based on systolic blood pressure versus those using the constant-pressure method. The findings might outline the theoretical framework necessary for advocating for tourniquet pressure setups guided by systolic blood pressure.

Methods/design

This randomized controlled study classified the tourniquet pressure regimen into two groups: one based on the patient's systolic blood pressure (the study group) and the other using a constant pressure (the control group). The study included patients aged between 16 and 70 who presented with fresh fractures (less than 3 weeks) of the lower and upper limbs. All the included patients required surgical treatment involving the intraoperative use of a tourniquet and had no contraindications to this surgery. Our primary outcome was to assess the surgeon's satisfaction with the hemostasis achieved in the operative field. We also examined the changes in the circumference of the limb where the tourniquet was applied and tracked any postoperative complications and their incidence. The study ultimately encompassed 144 patients.

Discussion

Despite the prevalent use of tourniquets in surgical operations related to limb fractures, conflicting viewpoints persist concerning the adjustments in pressure and other elements. The study aimed to compare the hemostatic efficacy and disparities in tourniquet pressure settings based on systolic blood pressure versus those using the constant-pressure method.

Study registration

The study was duly recorded in the Chinese Clinical Trial Registry on May 13, 2022 (Registration number: ChiCTR2200059867).

Registration website

https://www.chictr.org.cn/showproj.aspx?proj=162504.