Plasma therapy for traumatic brain injury: Rationale for a prospective randomized trial.

This article explores the potential benefits of using fresh frozen plasma (FFP) as a treatment for traumatic brain injury (TBI). TBI is a significant global health issue, and current guidelines focus on minimizing secondary brain injury. FFP has shown promise in improving survival rates and may have neuroprotective effects in TBI patients. Animal models and clinical studies have demonstrated that early administration of FFP can reduce brain lesion size, improve neurological outcomes, and enhance survival rates. The FIT-BRAIN clinical trial, funded by the Department of Defense, aims to evaluate the safety and efficacy of early FFP administration in patients with moderate to severe TBI. The trial will compare outcomes between patients who receive FFP and those who receive standard care alone, with the primary endpoint being the Extended Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS-E) at 3 months post-injury. The trial will collect data on secondary and exploratory endpoints, including hemorrhagic progression of contusion, disability rating score, and intracranial pressure readings. The study has been designed to minimize biases and ensure diverse representation by selecting geographically distinct research sites. The authors hope that the trial will provide valuable information about the benefits of early plasma administration in TBI patients and potentially lead to a new treatment option for brain injuries. [Extracted from the article]