Successful ROTEM-guided transfusion therapy in a case of rural paediatric trauma

Abstract

Massive transfusion therapy in severe paediatric trauma is a challenge. When this occurs in a rural setting, the potential delays in accessing medical services can lead to worse coagulopathy on presentation. We report successful treatment of a child post-traumatic lower limb amputation where treatment was only initiated 3 hours postinjury due to difficulties in access/retrieval. Rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM)-guided, goal-directed haemostatic therapy perioperatively utilising a blood product ratio of 2:2:1 units of red blood cell:free frozen plasma:platelet reverted his coagulopathy. This report aims to raise awareness of the utility of ROTEM in paediatric trauma.