Needle Thoracostomy in the Prehospital Setting: A Retrospective Observational Study.

Background: The use of needle thoracostomy (NT) is a common prehospital intervention for patients in extremis or cardiac arrest due to trauma; however, controversy surrounds its use. The purpose of this study is to compare outcomes, effectiveness, and complications of NT in an Emergency Medical Services (EMS) system that includes urban, rural, and wilderness environments.

Methods: This is a retrospective observational study of all patients who had NT performed in a four county EMS system with a catchment area of greater than 1.

Needle Thoracostomy for Patients with Prolonged Transport Times: A Case-control Study.

Unlabelled: Introduction The use of prehospital needle thoracostomy (NT) is controversial. Some studies support its use; however, concerns exist regarding misplacement, inappropriate patient selection, and iatrogenic injury. Even less is known about its efficacy in situations where there is a delay to definitive care.