Patient Studies

Study to test effect of blood pressure in trauma patients

Baylor College of Medicine surgeons in the trauma center at Ben Taub General Hospital hope to determine if lowering blood pressure in patients undergoing operations to repair serious injuries to the chest and abdomen can reduce their risk of dying.

In this study, trauma patients will be assigned to one of two groups. In one group, blood pressure will be kept at normal levels. In the second group, the blood pressure will be lowered slightly by giving the patients slightly less fluid. Previously, surgeons at BCM and Ben Taub found that giving less fluid to trauma patients before and while they were transported to the hospital in ambulances resulted in a 10 percent decrease in the death rate. This study builds on the findings in that one.

All patients in the study will receive usual care for their injuries. The only difference will be lowering blood pressure in one group during surgery.

Because the study takes place in an emergency setting, the procedures must often take place before the patient or family members can agree or consent to take part. Surveys of patients in the waiting rooms at Ben Taub show that most people agree with the intent of the study and feel that it is important, said Matthew Carrick, M.D., assistant professor of surgery at BCM.

This study will begin in May and continue for two to three years, enrolling 250 to 300 patients. Those who do not wish to take part in the study may call or write to Carrick to obtain a free bracelet. Wearing the bracelet alerts the trauma surgeons at Ben Taub that the patient does not wish to be part of this study.

For more information or a bracelet, please contact Carrick at 713-783-4381 or e-mail traumatrial@bcm.edu. Information is also available by writing Dr. Matthew M. Carrick, One Baylor Plaza, BCM 390, BCMD 390, Houston, Texas 77030.