Complications with use of the Epistat in the arrest of midfacial haemorrhage.

Abstract

Control of midfacial haemorrhage can be difficult, especially in the multiply injured patient, either at the scene of injury, or in the Accident and Emergency Department. The use of Epistats has proven invaluable in this setting. Potential problems exist with their use and this is illustrated with examples, together with strategies for overcoming them. A summary of the didactic method of safe use of this life saving technique is insert the Epistat, aiming for a fingertip placed at the soft palate;inflate the posterior cuff;withdraw the Epistat slightly, to position the posterior cuff within the nasal choanae;inflate the anterior (intranasal) cuff.