Clinical evaluation of the antishock trouser: prospective study of low-pressure inflation.

We designed a prospective study to address the question of the adequacy of low-pressure (20 to 30 mm Hg) inflation of pneumatic anti-shock trousers when in use on hypotensive patients in the prehospital and emergency department settings. For an eight-month period, all patients who were candidates for pneumatic trousers received a two-stage inflation process. Of 120 patients who received trousers, 91 survived more than 24 hours, and their response to low-pressure inflation was analyzed. The majority (70%) did not respond at low pressure. Those patients who did respond were characterized by a higher initial systolic pressure (P less than .05), indicating that their degree of shock was relatively mild. In responding patients, the response varied, affirming the importance of full clinical assessment. Gauges showing intrasuit pressure are not necessary to evaluate patient condition.