THE TREATMENT OF SHOCK BY AORTIC TRANSFUSION DURING THORACIC OPERATIONS

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Abstract
Peripheral arterial transfusions have been shown to be of value experimentally in the study of shock by Kohlstaedt and Page.1 Gardner2 has proved their usefulness in its clinical control. Arterial transfusions may have occasional value in thoracic surgery. Uncontrollable hemorrhage during thoracic operations is a potential hazard. If this complication should occur it may be impossible to provide sufficient blood intravenously after hemostasis to sustain life. It may be difficult or occasionally impossible to obtain veins for venipuncture if the patient is in shock. Unnecessary time may be lost in attempting venipuncture. Even though blood can be provided in adequate amounts the dangers of pulmonary edema and right sided cardiac failure are ever present when blood is given too rapidly intravenously. The mortality rate from injuries of the mediastinal vessels is high. Though the hemorrhage may be surgically controlled, death may result from loss of blood and shock.