To evaluate if EPP in the emergency room is associated with a higher infection rate compared to the same procedure performed in the Operating Room, and to analyze differences in outcomes between the two settings.
Key Findings:
EPP is a safe procedure even when performed in emergency conditions, with careful monitoring.
Local infection rates post-EPP range from 15-35%, increasing with packing duration beyond 48 hours, highlighting the need for timely intervention.
Infections were more common in patients with open fractures or associated bladder/bowel injuries, indicating a need for targeted management in these cases.
Interpretation:
EPP is effective in managing pelvic hemorrhages, but it carries a significant risk of local infections, particularly in high-risk patients, necessitating vigilant monitoring.
Limitations:
Retrospective design may introduce bias, affecting the reliability of the findings.
Exclusion of certain patient groups may limit generalizability, particularly in diverse clinical settings.
Conclusion:
EPP is a viable emergency intervention for pelvic hemorrhages, but careful monitoring for infections is essential, especially in high-risk patients.
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