Practical tips for performing resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta

Background: Hemorrhage is the leading cause of death in trauma settings. Non-compressible torso hemorrhage, which is caused by abdominopelvic and thoracic injuries, is an important cause of subsequent organ dysfunction and poor outcomes in multiple trauma patients. The management of hemodynamically unstable patients with non-compressible torso hemorrhage has changed, and the concept of damage control resuscitation has been developed in the last decades. Currently, resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) as a method of temporary stabilization is the modern evolution of bleeding control, and it is in the middle of a paradigm shift as a treatment for non-compressible torso hemorrhage. Despite its effectiveness in patients with hemorrhagic shock, the application of REBOA remains limited because of lack of experience and troubleshooting guidelines. Objectives: The aim of study was to provide useful tips for the implementing a step-by-step procedure for REBOA in various hospital settings and capabilities. Methods: We introduced REBOA procedures using a REBOA-customized 7 Fr balloon catheter through the animation models or radiography from preparation to access, catheter management, and device removal after procedure completed. Results: We have described REBOA procedures as follows: identification of the common femoral artery, arterial access for placement of a guidewire, precautions during a sheath insertion, guidewire and balloon positioning in the aorta, occlusion zones and adjustment of balloon location, REBOA strategy for extending the occlusion time, balloon deflation and removal, sheath removal, and medical records. Conclusion: We believe that the practical tips mentioned in this article will help in performing the REBOA procedure systematically and developing an effective REBOA framework.