Clinical Research Directory

Pneumatic Tourniquet Versus no Tourniquet in Transfemoral Amputation

Sponsor: University of Southern Denmark

Summary

Lower extremity amputation patients represent a frail group of patients with extensive comorbidity. The most common indication of amputation is ischemia, infection and concomitant ischemic pain due to underlying chronic disease, especially arteriosclerosis and diabetes. Prolonged general anesthesia and surgery as well as increased blood loss may result in impaired patient safety. Previous studies have shown total blood loss approx. 1000 mL in transfemoral amputations (TFA). Substantial blood loss during surgery increases the risk of anemic complications and death for this already weakened patient group. The aim of this randomized controlled trial is to improve patient safety by exploring the possibility of a more precautious surgical procedure for TFA. Hence, investigating the total blood loss and secondary differences in complications after TFA between patients operated with use of pneumatic tourniquet versus no tourniquet. Total blood loss is calculated via Nadlers approach. From a pilot series, sample size was calculated to 124, allocated 1:1 in two groups of 62 participants, to ensure detection of at least 200 mL difference in total blood loss. The hypothesis is that use of tourniquet will decrease the total blood loss, the amount of blood transfusions, time of surgery and complications related to postoperative anemia without a higher rate of adverse events. The secondary and explorative outcomes are blood transfusions, intraoperative blood loss, length of stay, time of surgery, risk of readmission, risk of re-operation, risk of mortality, complications during admission, quality of life (QoL), prosthesis use and the prosthesis-specific survey Prothesis Evaluation Questionnaire (PEQ). QoL is measured with the validated questionnaire EQ-5D-5L preoperatively, and at 3, 6, and 12 months postoperatively. The possibility to enhance patient safety is highly relevant, and this trial will aid in establishing evidence-based guidelines for TFA surgery.

Official title: Pneumatic Tourniquet Versus no Tourniquet in Transfemoral Amputation - A Randomized Controlled Trial

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