Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta as an Adjunct in a Patient with Neurogenic Shock

Abstract

Aortic occlusion is used during trauma resuscitation for patients with profound shock and cardiac arrest. Aortic occlusion increases coronary and cerebral perfusion permitting time for interventions in an attempt to salvage moribund patients. Resuscitative endovascular occlusion of the aorta (REBOA) is a less invasive method of aortic occlusion and its indications are being defined, but it is used primarily for noncompressible torso hemorrhage. This case is the first report of the use of REBOA for neurogenic shock in a trauma patient. The patient presented after a motorcycle accident with altered mental status and hypotension. The patient was resuscitated with blood products and REBOA used as an adjunct to maintain cardiac and cerebral perfusion. The patient underwent stabilization of his spinal injuries and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. There were no complications related to the REBOA.