Clinical evaluation of the antishock trouser: retrospective analysis of five years of experience.

A retrospective study of five years of experience in using pneumatic antishock trousers was undertaken to provide data for analysis of clinical response and complications associated with use of the suit. Of 1,120 patients who received pneumatic antishock trousers, 821 (73.3%) survived more than 24 hours, and their response and clinical course were analyzed. Response was not uniform: most exhibited blood pressure response, and some showed changes in only pulse rate or evidence of improved tissue perfusion. Different responses were noted for different shock etiologies. Of all the potential complications theoretically possible, a prevalence of only 4% for ischemic skin changes (none requiring grafting) and 0.97% for renal perfusion failure were noted. The pneumatic antishock trouser is thought to be beneficial and safe.