Resuscitative Endovascular Balloon Occlusion of the Aorta: Indications, Outcomes, and Training.

Exsanguinating torso hemorrhage is a leading killer of trauma patients. The most appropriate means of hemorrhage control must be used. Trauma surgeons should have expertise with all approaches for prompt hemorrhage control [laparotomy, thoracotomy, resuscitative endovascular balloon occlusion of the aorta (REBOA), and resuscitative thoracotomy]. REBOA is an exciting adjunct for hemorrhage control as it can be deployed quickly and placed percutaneously. Balloon inflation can vary dependent on patient physiology. REBOA is effective in hemorrhagic shock as a bridge to definitive hemostasis. Endovascular training is important for trauma surgeons caring for patients at high risk of death from traumatic hemorrhage.