The aim of this study is to evaluate the efficacy of Foley
catheter in the management of
hemorrhage from penetrating
maxillofacial injuries in austere environment. This retrospective cohort study evaluated all penetrating head and neck
trauma caused by firearm
injuries reported to a military hospital at a forward aid location during 2015-2017. Foley
catheter was used in the emergency management of
bleeding in 11 cases. The effectiveness of this technique in controlling
hemorrhage, its indication,
contraindications, and complications has been explained. Out of 26 penetrating
injuries received during the time period, 11 patients underwent Foley
catheter balloon tamponade for the control of
hemorrhage. Ten out of 11 patients responded adequately to balloon tamponade. One patient with a bullet lodged inside the neck underwent immediate surgical exploration for its removal and repair of internal jugular vein. No neurological deficits or complications were noted in any of the patients. Foley
catheter balloon tamponade is very effective in managing
hemorrhage from head and neck penetrating
injuries. It significantly reduces the mortality by controlling
bleeding from the major vessels especially in a combat environment.