Little Rock, Arkansas – A groundbreaking emergency medicine study is underway at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS), with the participation of the University of Pittsburgh, aimed at revolutionizing the way trauma patients are treated in the critical moments following severe injury.
The joint study, which includes input from both UAMS and the University of Pittsburgh, seeks to examine whether early intervention in trauma patients experiencing significant blood loss can improve patient outcomes. Specifically, the research is focused on the use of calcium and vasopressin, two substances that may enhance the body’s ability to cope with traumatic injuries and blood loss. UAMS officials are hopeful that the treatment could increase survival rates among severely injured patients, a population with a high risk of death despite current medical treatments.
Dr. Joseph Margolick, a trauma surgeon at UAMS, who is serving as the principal investigator for the study, explained the importance of this new approach. “We are committed at UAMS to helping improve survival rates of these severely injured patients,” he said. “We think early treatment with calcium and vasopressin in trauma patients may improve outcomes.” His team believes that the introduction of these substances at an earlier stage of care could significantly alter the treatment trajectory for trauma victims.
The trial, labeled CAVALIER (CAlcium and VAsopressin following Injury Early Resuscitation), represents a significant departure from traditional trauma care methods. Typically, trauma patients suffering from severe blood loss are treated with blood transfusions, blood clotting medications, and surgical interventions to control bleeding. However, UAMS officials point out that despite these measures, up to 30% of patients with major blood loss may still die. This new trial hopes to change those statistics by applying calcium and vasopressin immediately after injury to boost the body’s natural response to trauma.
Approximately 1,050 patients, aged 18 to 90, will participate in the study, which will be conducted under real-world conditions. Metropolitan Emergency Medical Services (MEMS) will play a key role by having emergency response teams administer the calcium and vasopressin therapy at the scene of the accident, with continued treatment upon the patient’s arrival at UAMS. This is an important distinction, as it allows for earlier administration of treatment during the crucial period before the patient reaches the hospital.
UAMS officials emphasized the innovative nature of the CAVALIER study, particularly in how it differs from standard trauma care protocols. The study is categorized as an “Exception from Informed Consent” trial, meaning that treatment may begin even if the patient is unable to provide consent due to the severity of their injuries. This is particularly critical in emergency trauma situations where time is of the essence, and patients are often unable to communicate or make decisions about their treatment.
The study is being supported by a Department of Defense contract, as well as funding from the UAMS Translational Research Institute, underscoring the significance and potential impact of the research. The collaboration with the University of Pittsburgh strengthens the study’s scope, drawing on a wide range of expertise in emergency medicine.
As the study progresses, UAMS and its partners hope that this early intervention model will not only help save lives but also reshape how trauma care is approached across the country. With the potential to significantly improve patient outcomes, the research being conducted at UAMS may set a new standard in trauma treatment, offering a more effective approach to saving those who suffer from severe injuries and blood loss.
