permissive hypotension
Deliberate maintenance of lower than normal blood pressure in trauma patients to reduce bleeding while preserving organ perfusion.
Full Definition
A resuscitation strategy where systolic blood pressure is intentionally maintained at 80-90 mmHg rather than normal levels to minimize ongoing hemorrhage while maintaining adequate perfusion to vital organs. This approach is particularly useful in penetrating trauma and situations where immediate surgical control of bleeding is anticipated. The strategy balances the risk of inadequate tissue perfusion against the benefit of reduced bleeding from damaged vessels.
Usage
Usage note: Note the distinction from 'hypotensive resuscitation' - permissive hypotension is the deliberate strategy, while hypotensive resuscitation refers to the broader approach.
In Context
- "The trauma team implemented permissive hypotension while preparing for emergency surgery." — operative report
- "Permissive hypotension protocols should specify target blood pressure ranges for different injury patterns." — clinical guideline