The management of retroperitoneal haematoma discovered at laparotomy for trauma

Aim

To review our local experience with presentation and management of retroperitoneal haematomas (RPH) discovered at laparotomy and factors affecting outcome.

Methods

Patients with retroperitoneal haematomas (RPHs) were identified from a prospective database. Data collected included demographics, clinical presentation, zones and organs involved, management and outcome.

Results

Of a total of 488 patients with abdominal trauma, 145 (30%) with RPH were identified 136 of whom were male (M:F = 15:1). Mean age was 28.8 (SD 10.6) years and median delay before surgery was 7 h. The injury mechanisms were firearms (109), stabs (24), and blunt trauma (12). Twenty-four patients (17%) presented with shock. There were 58 Zone I, 69 Zone II, and 38 Zone III haematomas. The median injury severity score (ISS) was 9. Fifty-two patients (36%) developed complications and 26 (18%) patients died. Sixty-four (44%) patients required ICU with median ICU stay of 3 days. All Zone I injuries were explored; Zones II and III were explored selectively. The mortality for Zones I, II, III and IV was 14%, 4%, 29% and 35%, respectively. Mortality was highest for blunt trauma and lowest for stabs (p = 0.146). Twelve of 24 patients with shock died (50%) compared to 14 of 121 (12%) without shock (p < 0.0001). Eighteen of 64 patients with <6-h delay before surgery died (28%) compared to 8 of 81 (10%) with >6-h delay (p < 0.017). Mortality increased with increasing ISS. Median hospital stay was 8 days.

Conclusion

RPH accounted for 30% of abdominal trauma. Injury mechanism, presence of shock, delay before surgery and ISS showed a significant association with mortality.     

Surgical management and outcome of blunt major liver injuries: Experience of damage control laparotomy with perihepatic packing in one trauma centre

Introduction

This retrospective study aimed to assess the clinical experience and outcome of damage control laparotomy with perihepatic packing in the management of blunt major liver injuries.

Materials and methods

From January 1998 to December 2006, 58 patients of blunt major liver injury, American Association for the Surgery of Trauma-Organ Injury Scale (AAST-OIS) equal or greater than III, were operated with perihepatic packing at our institute. Demographic data, intra-operative findings, operative procedures, adjunctive managements and outcome were reviewed. To determine whether there was statistical difference between the survivor and non-survivor groups, data were compared by using Mann–Whitney U test for continuous variables, either Pearson's chi-square test or with Yates continuity correction for contingency tables, and results were considered statistically significant if p < 0.05.

Results

Of the 58 patients, 20 (35%) were classified as AAST-OIS grade III, 24 (41%) as grade IV, and 14 (24%) as grade V. At laparotomy, depending on the severity of injuries, all 58 patients underwent various liver-related procedures and perihepatic packing. The more frequent liver-related procedures included debridement hepatectomy (n = 21), hepatorrhaphy (n = 19), selective hepatic artery ligation (n = 11) and 7 patients required post-laparotomy hepatic transarterial embolization. Of the 58 patients, 28 survived and 30 died with a 52% mortality rate. Of the 30 deaths, uncontrolled liver bleeding in 24-h caused 25 deaths and delayed sepsis caused residual 5 deaths. The mortality rate versus OIS was grade III: 30% (6/20), grade IV: 54% (13/24), and grade V: 79% (11/14), respectively. On univariate analysis, the significant predictors of mortality were OIS grade (p = 0.019), prolonged initial prothrombin time (PT) (p = 0.004), active partial thromboplastin time (APTT) (p < 0.0001) and decreased platelet count (p = 0.005).

Conclusions

The mortality rate of surgical blunt major liver injuries remains high even with perihepatic packing. Since prolonged initial PT, APTT and decreased platelet count were associated with high risk of mortality, we advocate combination of damage control resuscitation with damage control laparotomy in these major liver injuries.     

Is dopexamine superior to dopamine in the treatment of multiple trauma patients—A prospective, double-blind, randomised study

Background

The goal of this prospective, randomised, double-blind clinical trial study was to assess the effects of dopexamine hydrochloride on organ failure, inflammatory mediators and splanchnic oxygenation in blunt multiple trauma patients at high risk of multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS).

Methods

We performed a prospective randomised controlled trial on 30 consecutive blunt multiple trauma patients with ISS ≥ 16, age 18-60 years and initial blood pressure ≥120 mmHg initially admitted to our level I trauma centre. Patients were randomised to treatment with dopamine (n = 15) or dopexamine (n = 15) for 48 h after admission. Outcome in terms of mortality, MODS, splanchnic perfusion, complications, duration of stay was statistically analysed.

Results

Dopexamine treatment was associated with impaired organ function and an increased duration of ventilation and ICU stay compared with patients who received dopamine treatment. The acute inflammatory response was increased in the Dopexamine group while a decreased pHi and MEGX formation and increased serum lactate levels were measured.

Conclusions

The indication to use dopexamine hydrochloride appears questionable. In the absence of an antiinflammatory effect, dopexamine demonstrated a disadvantageous ICU course in regards to the organ function and the duration of treatment. In addition, a decreased pHi and MEGX formation suggested a deterioration of splanchnic oxygenation.     

Population-based analysis of blunt splenic injury management in children: Operative rate is an informative quality of care indicator

Background

In hemodynamically normal children with blunt splenic injury (BSI), the standard of care is non-operative management. Several studies have reported that non-paediatric and non-trauma centres have higher operative rates in children with BSI compared to paediatric hospitals and trauma centres. We investigate the feasibility of using operative rate for BSI as a quality of care indicator.

Methods

We performed a population-based retrospective cohort study of children (≤18 years) with BSI admitted to all acute-care hospitals in Canada from 2001 to 2010. The main outcome was rate of operative management for BSI. Hierarchical multivariable logistic regression models were constructed to evaluate the relationship between operative rate and different hospital types (paediatric or non-paediatric, trauma or non-trauma). These models also allowed for generation of hospital-level observed to expected (O/E) ratios for rate of operative management.

Results

We identified 3122 children with BSI. The majority (74%) were isolated splenic injuries and the grade of splenic injury was specified in 45% of cases (n = 1391, 38% grade I or II; 62% grade III, IV, or V). The overall operative rate was 11% (n = 315), of which 9% were total splenectomy and 2% were spleen-preserving operations. After adjusting for age, gender, mechanism of injury, splenic injury grade, ISS, and centre volume, admission to non-paediatric hospitals was associated with a higher probability of operative management (OR 7.6, 95% CI 2.4–24.4), whereas there was no significant difference in operative management between trauma and non-trauma centres (OR 1.6, 95% CI 0.8–3.2). Outlier status based on O/E ratio was determined to identify centres with higher or lower than expected operative rates.

Conclusions

The operative rates for children with BSI are significantly higher in non-paediatric hospitals. In these hospitals that do not routinely care for children and have higher than expected operative rates, we have used operative rate for BSI as a quality of care indicator and identified opportunities for quality improvement initiatives.Level of evidence: III, Retrospective comparative study.     

The relationship between post-traumatic ventilator-associated pneumonia outcomes and American College of Surgeons trauma centre designation

Introduction

The relationship between outcomes following severe trauma and American College of Surgeons (ACS) trauma centre designation has been studied. Little is known, however, about the association between ACS level and outcomes associated with ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP).

Methods

The National Trauma Databank (NTDB, Version 5.0) was queried to identify adult (age ≥ 18) trauma patients who (1) developed VAP and (2) were admitted to either an ACS level I or level II centre. Transfer and burn patients were excluded. Univariate analysis defined differences between patient cohorts. Logistic regression analysis was utilised to identify independent risk factors for mortality.

Results

A total of 3465 patients were identified where 65.6% were admitted to a level I facility and 34.4% to a level II centre. Patients admitted to a level I centre were more likely to have an age > 55 (71.5% vs. 66.8%, p = 0.004) and to be hypotensive (SBP < 90) on admission (16.2% vs. 13.6%, p = 0.042). They were also more likely to have a longer duration of mechanical ventilation (18.5 days vs. 16.5 days, p = 0.001), longer hospital LOS (34.2 days vs. 29.6 days, p < 0.001) and a higher rate of early (≤7 days) tracheostomy (33.1% vs. 29.1%, p = 0.017). Level I admission was, however, associated with lower mortality rates (10.8% vs. 14.7%, p = 0.001) and a higher likelihood of achieving discharge to home (20.2% vs. 16.1%, p < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis identified admission to a level II facility as an independent risk factor for mortality (OR 1.34, 95% CI 1.08-1.66; p = 0.008) in patients developing post-traumatic VAP.

Conclusion

For adults who develop VAP after trauma, admission to a level I facility is associated with improved survival. Further prospective study is needed.     

The imbalance between regulatory and IL-17-secreting CD4T cells in multiple-trauma rat

Background

It has been well recognised that a deficit of numbers and function of CD4⁺CD25⁺Foxp3⁺cells (Treg) is attributed to the development of auto-immune diseases, inflammatory diseases, tumour and rejection of transplanted tissue; however, there are controversial data regarding the suppressive effect of Treg cells on the T-cell response in auto-immune diseases. Additionally, interleukin-17 (IL-17)-producing cells (Th17) have a pro-inflammatory role. The balance between Th17 and Treg may be essential for maintaining immune homeostasis and has long been thought as one of the important factors in the development/prevention of auto-immune diseases, inflammatory diseases, tumour and rejection of transplanted tissue, but their role in multiple trauma remains unclear.

Objective

This study aims to investigate whether an imbalance of Treg and Th17 effector cells is characteristic of rats suffering from multiple trauma.

Methods and subjective

Sixty Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats were randomly divided into three groups. The control group (n = 20, group I) no received procedures (normal). The sham group (n = 20, group II) only received anaesthesia, cannulation and observation. The bilateral femoral shaft fractures with haemorrhagic shock groups (n = 20, group III). Rats in groups II and III were killed at the end of 4 h after models were established. Peripheral blood samples were collected for assessment of Treg cells, Th17 cells and cytokines (IL-17, IL-6, IL-2, transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β)) and intestine tissue was collected for intestine histological analysis.

Results

We observed decreased Treg/Th17 ratios in CD4⁺T cells in rats with multiple trauma and a strong inverse correlation with disease activity (intestinal histological scores).

Conclusion

We suggest a role for immune imbalance in the pathogenesis and development of multiple trauma. The alteration of the index of Treg/Th17 cells likely indicates the therapeutic response and progress in the clinic.     

Multidetector CT and radiographic findings of lung injuries secondary to cardiopulmonary resuscitation

Objectives

Lung injury is one of the complications of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). This is the first study to describe the MDCT and radiographic findings of lung injuries secondary to CPR.

Methods

A total of 44 patients who underwent CPR for a non-traumatic cause of cardiac arrest were retrospectively included in this study. We evaluated the presence of lung injuries in the initial chest radiograph and MDCT performed immediately after CPR and described the MDCT and radiographic findings of the CPR-associated lung injuries. Finally, we evaluated the temporal pattern of lung injury on the follow-up radiographies.

Results

Chest CT demonstrated lung injury in 54 lungs of 35 patients, while initial chest radiography detected lung abnormality in 37 lungs of 28 patients. The most common patterns of lung injuries on chest CT were bilateral (n = 19), ground-glass opacity (n = 30) and consolidation (n = 26), distributed along the bronchovascular bundles (n = 13). Most of the abnormalities were located in the posterior part of both upper lobes and both lower lobes (n = 29). Among seven patients who did not have abnormalities in the initial chest radiograph, lung abnormalities were detected on the follow-up radiographies (mean follow-up duration = 1.6 days, range = 1–3 days) in five patients, and 28 patients who had lung abnormalities on initial radiograph were improved (n = 19) or aggravated (n = 8) on the follow-up radiographies.

Conclusions

Lung injuries are frequent complications in patients who underwent CPR. Compared with radiography, MDCT has benefits for the detection and characterisation of CPR-associated lung injuries. The most common findings of lung injuries after CPR were bilateral ground glass opacity and consolidation, usually in the dependent area of both lungs.     

Blunt traumatic cardiac rupture: Therapeutic options and outcomes

Introduction

Cardiac rupture following blunt thoracic trauma is rarely encountered by clinicians, since it commonly causes death at the scene. With advances in traumatology, blunt cardiac rupture had been increasingly disclosed in various ways. This study reviews our experience of patients with suspected blunt traumatic cardiac rupture and proposes treatment protocols for the same.

Methods

This is a 5-year retrospective study of trauma patients confirmed with blunt traumatic cardiac rupture admitted to a university-affiliated tertiary trauma referral centre. The following information was collected from the patients: age, sex, mechanism of injury, initial effective diagnostic tool used for diagnosing blunt cardiac rupture, location and size of the cardiac injury, associated injury and injury severity score (ISS), reversed trauma score (RTS), survival probability of trauma and injury severity scoring (TRISS), vital signs and biochemical lab data on arrival at the trauma centre, time elapsed from injury to diagnosis and surgery, surgical details, hospital course and final outcome.

Results

The study comprised 8 men and 3 women with a median age of 39 years (range: 24-73 years) and the median follow-up was 5.5 months (range: 1-35 months). The ISS, RTS, and TRISS scores of the patients were 32.18 ± 5.7 (range: 25-43), 6.267 ± 1.684 (range: 2.628-7.841), and 72.4 ± 25.6% (range: 28.6-95.5%), respectively. Cardiac injuries were first detected using focused assessment with sonography for trauma (FAST) in 4 (36.3%) patients, using transthoracic echocardiography in 3 (27.3%) patients, chest CT in 1 (9%) patient, and intra-operatively in 3 (27.3%) patients. The sites of cardiac injury comprised the superior vena cava/right atrium junction (n = 4), right atrial auricle (n = 1), right ventricle (n = 4), left ventricular contusion (n = 1), and diffuse endomyocardial dissection over the right and left ventricles (n = 1). Notably, 2 had pericardial lacerations presenting as a massive haemothorax, which initially masked the cardiac rupture. The in-hospital mortality was 27.3% (3/11) with 1 intra-operative death, 1 multiple organ failure, and 1 death while waiting for cardiac transplantation. Another patient with morbid neurological defects died on the thirty-third postoperative day; the overall survival was 63.6% (7/11). Compared with the surviving patients, the fatalities had higher RTS and TRISS scores, serum creatinine levels, had received greater blood transfusions, and had a worse preoperative conscious state.

Conclusions

We proposed a protocol combining various diagnostic tools, including FAST, CT, transthoracic echocardiography, and TEE, to manage suspected blunt traumatic cardiac rupture. Pericardial defects can mask the cardiac lesion and complicate definite cardiac repair. Comorbid trauma, particularly neurological injury, may have an impact on the survival of such patients, despite timely repair of the cardiac lesions.     

Battlefield extremity injuries in Operation Iraqi Freedom

Objective

Extremity injuries account for the majority of wounds incurred during US armed conflicts. Information regarding the severity and short-term outcomes of patients with extremity wounds, however, is limited. The aim of the present study was to describe patients with battlefield extremity injuries in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and to compare characteristics of extremity injury patients with other combat wounded.

Patients and methods

Data were obtained from the United States Navy-Marine Corps Combat Trauma Registry (CTR) for patients who received treatment for combat wounds at Navy-Marine Corps facilities in Iraq between September 2004 and February 2005. Battlefield extremity injuries were classified according to type, location, and severity; patient demographic, injury-specific, and short-term outcome data were analysed. Upper and lower extremity injuries were also compared.

Results

A total of 935 combat wounded patients were identified; 665 (71%) sustained extremity injury. Overall, multiple wounding was common (an average of 3 wounds per patient), though more prevalent amongst patients with extremity injury than those with other injury (75% vs. 56%, P < .001). Amongst the 665 extremity injury patients, 261 (39%) sustained injury to the upper extremities, 223 (34%) to the lower extremities, and 181 (27%) to both the upper and lower extremities. Though the total number of patients with upper extremity injury was higher than lower extremity injury, the total number of extremity wounds (n = 1654) was evenly distributed amongst the upper and lower extremities (827 and 827 wounds, respectively). Further, lower extremity injuries were more likely than the upper extremity injuries to be coded as serious to fatal (AIS > 2, P < .001).

Conclusions

Extremity injuries continue to account for the majority of combat wounds. Compared with other conflicts, OIF has seen increased prevalence of patients with upper extremity injuries. Wounds to the lower extremities, however, are more serious. Further research on the risks and outcomes associated with extremity injury is necessary to enhance the planning and delivery of combat casualty medical care.     

A 13-year analysis from Switzerland of non-fatal sledging (sledding or tobogganing) injuries

Introduction

Winter sports have evolved from an upper class activity to a mass industry. Especially sledging regained popularity at the start of this century, with more and more winter sports resorts offering sledge runs. This study investigated the rates of sledging injuries over the last 13 years and analysed injury patterns specific for certain age groups, enabling us to make suggestions for preventive measures.

Methods

We present a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. From 1996/1997 to 2008/2009, all patients involved in sledging injuries were recorded upon admission to a Level III trauma centre. Injuries were classified into body regions according to the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS). The Injury Severity Score (ISS) was calculated. Patients were stratified into 7 age groups. Associations between age and injured body region were tested using the chi-squared test. The slope of the linear regression with 95% confidence intervals was calculated for the proportion of patients with different injured body regions and winter season.

Results

4956 winter sports patients were recorded. 263 patients (5%) sustained sledging injuries. Sledging injury patients had a median age of 22 years (interquartile range [IQR] 14–38 years) and a median ISS of 4 (IQR 1–4). 136 (51.7%) were male. Injuries (AIS ≥ 2) were most frequent to the lower extremities (n = 91, 51.7% of all AIS ≥ 2 injuries), followed by the upper extremities (n = 48, 27.3%), the head (n = 17, 9.7%), the spine (n = 7, 4.0%). AIS ≥ 2 injuries to different body regions varied from season to season, with no significant trends (p > 0.19). However, the number of patients admitted with AIS ≥ 2 injuries increased significantly over the seasons analysed (p = 0.031), as did the number of patients with any kind of sledging injury (p = 0.004). Mild head injuries were most frequent in the youngest age group (1–10 years old). Injuries to the lower extremities were more often seen in the age groups from 21 to 60 years (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Mild head trauma was mainly found in very young sledgers, and injuries to the lower extremities were more frequent in adults. In accordance with the current literature, we suggest that sledging should be performed in designated, obstacle-free areas that are specially prepared, and that children should always be supervised by adults. The effect of routine use of helmets and other protective devices needs further evaluation, but it seems evident that these should be obligatory on official runs.     

The effect of epidural anaesthesia on the reverse-flow fasciocutaneous flap: An experimental study in rabbits

Background: The reverse-flow fasciocutaneous flap has been popularised as a feasible alternative to reconstruction of the post-burn contractures around lower-extremity joints. The effect of epidural anaesthesia (EA) on the haemodynamics of reverse-flow fasciocutaneous flap (RFFF) has not yet been investigated. Therefore, it was our primary objective to determine how EA impacts on vascular haemodynamics and tissue perfusion. Materials and methods: This study included 30 New Zealand white rabbits. The reverse-flow saphenous fasciocutaneous island flap in rabbit model was used. In group I (n = 10), epidural catheterisation of the rabbits were performed and they received an epidural infusion of 0.1 ml kg⁻¹ 0.125% bupivacaine 12-h periods until the 10th day. In group II (n = 10), epidural catheterisation of the rabbits was performed and they received an epidural infusion of 0.1 ml kg⁻¹ isotonic sodium chloride solution. In group III (n = 10), epidural catheterisation of the rabbits was not performed. Intra-arterial blood pressure (IABP) and intravenous blood pressure (IVBP) was recorded at time intervals of 5, 15, 30 and 60 min, respectively, after tourniquet release on the first and 10th day. Microcirculatory flow was measured by laser Doppler flowmetry at 2, 4, 6, 8 and 10 days in all the groups. Results: Throughout the experiment, the flaps showed complete survival. A significant difference was noted in the microcirculatory flow measurements in the flap surfaces between group I and groups II–III throughout the experiment (p < 0.05). A significant difference was noted in IVBP and IABP between group I and groups II–III (p < 0.05). On the first and the 10th day, however, there were no significant differences between groups II and III (p > 0.05). Conclusion: EA improves blood flow to RFFF and prevents the progression of venous congestion.     

Fecal continence following complex anorectal trauma in children

Background

Complex injuries involving the anus and rectum are uncommon in children. We sought to examine long-term fecal continence following repair of these injuries.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review using our trauma registry from 2003 to 2012 of children with traumatic injuries to the anus or rectum at a level I pediatric trauma center. Patients with an injury requiring surgical repair that involved the anal sphincters and/or rectum were selected for a detailed review.

Results

Twenty-one patients (21/13,149 activations, 0.2%) who had an injury to the anus (n = 9), rectum (n = 8), or destructive injury to both the anus and rectum (n = 4) were identified. Eleven (52%) patients were male, and the median age at time of injury was 9 (range 1–14) years. Penetrating trauma accounted for 48% of injuries. Three (14%) patients had accompanying injury to the urinary tract, and 6 (60%) females had vaginal injuries. All patients with an injury involving the rectum and destructive anal injuries were managed with fecal diversion. No patient with an isolated anal injury underwent fecal diversion. Four (19%) patients developed wound infections. The majority (90%) of patients were continent at last follow-up. One patient who sustained a gunshot injury to the pelvis with sacral nerve involvement is incontinent, but remains artificially clean on an intense bowel management program with enemas, and one patient with a destructive crush injury still has a colostomy.

Conclusions

With anatomic reconstruction of the anal sphincter mechanism, most patients with traumatic anorectal injuries will experience long-term fecal continence. Follow-up is needed as occasionally these patients, specifically those with nerve or crush injury, may require a formal bowel management program.     

On and off the horse: Mechanisms and patterns of injury in mounted and unmounted equestrians

Introduction

The purpose of this study is to determine whether discrepant patterns of horse-related trauma exist in mounted vs. unmounted equestrians from a single Level I trauma center to guide awareness of injury prevention.

Methods

Retrospective data were collected from the University of Kentucky Trauma Registry for patients admitted with horse-related injuries between January 2003 and December 2007 (n = 284). Injuries incurred while mounted were compared with those incurred while unmounted.

Results

Of 284 patients, 145 (51%) subjects were male with an average age of 37.2 years (S.D. 17.2). Most injuries occurred due to falling off while riding (54%) or kick (22%), resulting in extremity fracture (33%) and head injury (27%). Mounted equestrians more commonly incurred injury to the chest and lower extremity while unmounted equestrians incurred injury to the face and abdomen. Head trauma frequency was equal between mounted and unmounted equestrians. There were 3 deaths, 2 of which were due to severe head injury from a kick. Helmet use was confirmed in only 12 cases (6%).

Conclusion

This evaluation of trauma in mounted vs. unmounted equestrians indicates different patterns of injury, contributing to the growing body of literature in this field. We find interaction with horses to be dangerous to both mounted and unmounted equestrians. Intervention with increased safety equipment practice should include helmet usage while on and off the horse.     

An analysis of predictors of morbidity after stab wounds of the pancreas in 78 consecutive injuries

Introduction

Penetrating injuries of the pancreas may result in serious complications. This study assessed the factors influencing morbidity after stab wounds of the pancreas.

Methods

A retrospective univariate cohort analysis was carried out of 78 patients (74 men) with a median age of 26 years (range: 16–62 years) with stab wounds of the pancreas between 1982 and 2011.

Results

The median revised trauma score (RTS) was 7.8 (range: 2.0–7.8). Injuries involved the body (n=36), tail (n=24), head/uncinate process (n=16) and neck (n=2) of the pancreas. All 78 patients underwent a laparotomy. Sixty-five patients had AAST (American Association for the Surgery of Trauma) grade I or II pancreatic injuries and thirteen had grade III, IV or V injuries. Eight patients (10.3%) had an initial damage control operation. Sixty-nine patients (84.6%) had drainage of the pancreas only, six had a distal pancreatectomy and one had a pancreaticoduodenectomy.Most pancreas related complications occurred in patients with AAST grade III injuries; eight patients (10.2%) developed a pancreatic fistula. Four patients (5.1%) died. Grade of pancreatic injury (AAST grade I–II vs grade III–V injuries, p<0.001), RTS (odds ratio [OR]: 5.01, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.46–17.19, p<0.007), presence of shock on admission (OR: 3.31, 95% CI: 1.16–9.42, p=0.022), need for a blood transfusion (OR: 6.46, 95% CI: 2.40–17.40, p<0.001) and repeat laparotomy (p<0.001) had a significant influence on the development of general complications.

Conclusions

Although mortality was low after a pancreatic stab wound, morbidity was high. Increasing AAST grade of injury, high RTS, shock on admission to hospital, need for blood transfusion and repeat laparotomy were significant factors related to morbidity.     

American College of Surgeons trauma centre designation and mechanical ventilation outcomes

Objective

The association between hospital volume and outcomes following mechanical ventilation has been previously examined in diverse patient populations. The American College of Surgeons (ACS) Committee on Trauma has outlined criteria for trauma centre level designations with specific requirements for both specialty capabilities and hospital volume. Our objective is to determine the relationship between ACS centre designation and outcomes for trauma patients undergoing mechanical ventilation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the National Trauma Databank (NTDB), identifying 13,933 adult (age ≥ 18) trauma patients receiving mechanical ventilation for greater than 48 h from 2000 to 2004 who were admitted to either an ACS Level I or Level II trauma centre. The primary endpoints examined were mortality, pneumonia and Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS). Univariate analysis defined differences between those patients admitted to ACS Level I and Level II facilities. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify if ACS level designation was an independent risk factor for the goal outcomes.

Results

Patients admitted to a Level I facility and mechanically ventilated for greater than 48 h were more commonly greater than age 55 (71.3% vs. 67.9%, p < 0.01), hypotensive (SBP < 90) (16.1% vs. 12.8%, p < 0.01), and likely to have sustained injury due to penetrating mechanism (11.1% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.01). On univariate analysis, mortality and the incidence of pneumonia did not differ between the two groups. Level I admission was, however, less commonly associated with the development of ARDS (5.8% vs. 7.7%, p < 0.01) and patients admitted to Level I facilities were significantly more likely to be discharged to home than Level II counterparts (29.7% vs. 22.9%, p < 0.01). Logistic regression revealed that, while ACS Level designation was not a predictive factor for mortality or the development of pneumonia, admission to an ACS Level II facility was an independent predictor for the development of ARDS [p < 0.01, odds ratio, 95% CI: 1.35 (1.18-1.59)].

Conclusion

For trauma patients requiring mechanical ventilation for >48 h, ACS trauma centre designation had no effect on overall mortality or the incidence of pneumonia. Compared to Level I counterparts, however, patients admitted to an ACS Level II facility were significantly more likely to develop ARDS following trauma. This finding needs further investigation in a large, prospective analysis.     

Simulation-assisted burn disaster planning

The aim of the study was to evaluate the Swedish medical systems response to a mass casualty burn incident in a rural area with a focus on national coordination of burn care. Data were collected from two simulations of a mass casualty incident with burns in a rural area in the mid portion of Sweden close to the Norwegian border, based on a large inventory of emergency resources available in this area as well as regional hospitals, university hospitals and burn centres in Sweden and abroad. The simulation system Emergo Train System^® (ETS) was used and risk for preventable death and complications were used as outcome measures: simulation I, 18.5% (n = 13) preventable deaths and 15.5% (n = 11) preventable complications; simulation II, 11.4% (n = 8) preventable deaths and 11.4% (n = 8) preventable complications. The last T1 patient was evacuated after 7 h in simulation I, compared with 5 h in simulation II. Better national coordination of burn care and more timely distribution based on the experience from the first simulation, and possibly a learning effect, led to a better patient outcome in simulation II. The experience using a system that combines both process and outcome indicators can create important results that may support disaster planning.     

The timing of definitive fixation for major fractures in polytrauma—A matched-pair comparison between a US and European level I centres: Analysis of current fracture management practice in polytrauma

Purpose

Early definitive stabilisation is usually the treatment of choice for major fractures in polytrauma patients. Modifications may be made when patients are in critical condition, or when associated injuries dictate the timing of surgery. The current study investigates whether the timing of fracture treatment is different in different trauma systems.

Materials and methods

Consecutive patients treated a Level I trauma centre were documented (Group US) and a matched-pair group was gathered from the German Trauma Registry (Group GTR). Inclusion criteria: New Injury Severity Score (NISS) > 16, >2 major fractures and >1 organ/soft tissue injury. The timing and type of surgery for major fractures was recorded, as were major complications.

Results

114 patients were included, n = 57 Group US (35.1% F, 64.9% M, mean age: 44.1 yrs ± 16.49, mean NISS: 27.4 ± 8.65, mean ICU stay: 10 ± 7.49) and n = 57 Group GTR (36.8% F, 63.1% M, mean age: 41.2 yrs ± 15.35, mean NISS: 29.4 ± 6.88, mean ICU stay: 15.6 ± 18.25). 44 (57.1%) out of 77 fractures in Group US received primary definitive fracture fixation compared to 61 (65.5%) out of 93 fractures in Group GTR (n.s.). The average duration until definitive treatment was comparable in all major extremity fractures (pelvis: 5 days ± 2.8 Group US, 7.1 days ± 9.6 Group GTR (n.s.), femur: 7.9 days ± 8.3 Group US, 5.5 days ± 7.9 (n.s.), tibia: 6.2 days ± 5.6 Group US, 6.2 days ± 9.1 Group GTR (n.s.), humerus: 5 days ± 3.7 Group US, 6.6 days ± 6.1 Group GTR (n.s.), radius: 6 days ± 4.7 Group US, 6.1 days ± 8.7 Group GTR (n.s.).

Conclusion

The current matched-pair analysis demonstrates that the timing of initial definitive fixation of major fractures is comparable between the US and Europe. Certain fractures are stabilised internally in a staged fashion regardless the trauma system, thus discounting previous apparent contradictions.     

Consequences of increased use of computed tomography imaging for trauma patients in rural referring hospitals prior to transfer to a regional trauma centre

Background

Computed tomography (CT) plays an integral role in the evaluation and management of trauma patients. As the number of referring hospital (RH)-based CT scanners increased, so has their utilization in trauma patients before transfer. We hypothesized that this has resulted in increased time at RH, image duplication, and radiation dose.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was completed for trauma activations transferred to an ACS-verified Level II Trauma Centre (TC) during two time periods: 2002–2004 (Group 1) and 2006–2008 (Group 2). 2005 data were excluded as this marked the transition period for acquisition of hospital-based CT scanners in RH. Statistical analysis included t test and χ² analysis. P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results

1017 patients met study criteria: 503 in group 1 and 514 in group 2. Mean age was greater in group 2 compared to group 1 (40.3 versus 37.4, respectively; P = 0.028). There were 115 patients in group 1 versus 202 patients in group 2 who underwent CT imaging at RH (P < 0.001). Conversely, 326 patients in group 1 had CT scans performed at the TC versus 258 patients in group 2 (P < 0.001). Mean time at the RH was similar between the groups (117.1 and 112.3 min for group 1 and 2, respectively; P = 0.561). However, when comparing patients with and without a pretransfer CT at the RH, the median time at RH was 140 versus 67 min, respectively (P < 0.001). The number of patients with duplicate CT imaging (n = 34 in group 1 and n = 42 in group 2) was not significantly different between the two time periods (P = 0.392). Head CTs comprised the majority of duplicate CT imaging in both time periods (82.4% in group 1 and 90.5% in group 2). Mean total estimated radiation dose per patient was not significantly different between the two groups (group 1 = 8.4 mSv versus group 2 = 7.8 mSv; P = 0.192).

Conclusions

A significant increase in CT imaging at the RH prior to transfer to the TC was observed over the study periods. No associated increases in mean time at the RH, image duplication at TC, total estimated radiation dose per patient, and mortality rate were observed.     

Association of head,thoracic and abdominal trauma with delayed diagnosis of co-existing injuries in critical trauma patients

Background

Management of critically injured patients is usually complicated and challenging. A structured team approach with comprehensive survey is warranted. However, delayed diagnosis of co-existing injuries that are less severe or occult might still occur, despite a standard thorough approach coupled with advances in image intervention. Clinicians are easily distracted or occupied by the more obvious or threatening conditions. We hypothesised that the major area of injured body regions might contribute to this unwanted condition.

Methods

A retrospective study of all trauma patients admitted to our surgical intensive care units (ICU) was performed to survey the incidence of delayed diagnosis of injury (DDI) and the association between main body region injured and possibility of DDI. Demographic data and main body regions injured were compared and statistically analysed between patients with and without DDI.

Results

During the two-year study period, a total 976 trauma patients admitted to our surgical ICU were included in this study. The incidence of DDI was 12.1% (118/976). Patients with DDI had higher percentages of thoracic, abdominal, and pelvic injuries (30.5%, 16.1%, and 7.6% respectively) than the non-DDI group (14.7%, 7.5%, and 3.0% respectively) (p < 0.001, 0.003, and 0.024 respectively). A logistic regression model demonstrated that head (odds ratio = 1.99; 95%CI = 1.20–3.31), thoracic (odds ratio = 2.44; 95%CI = 1.55–3.86), and abdominal injuries (odds ratio = 2.38; 95%CI = 1.28–4.42) were independently associated with increasing DDI in patients admitted to the surgical ICU.

Discussion

In conclusion, critical trauma patients admitted to the surgical ICU with these categories of injuries were more likely to have DDI. Clinicians should pay more attention to patients admitted due to injuries in these regions. More detailed and dedicated secondary and tertiary surveys should be given, with more frequent and careful re-evaluation.