Fractures and dislocations of the hand in polytrauma patients: Incidence,injury pattern and functional outcome

IntroductionInjuries of the hand can cause significant functional impairment, diminished quality of life and delayed return to work. However, the incidence and functional outcome of hand injuries in polytrauma patients is currently unknown. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence, distribution and functional outcome of fractures and dislocation of the hand in polytrauma patients.MethodsA single centre retrospective cohort study was performed at a level 1 trauma centre. Polytrauma was defined as patients with an Injury Severity Score of 16 or higher. Fractures and dislocations to the hand were determined. All eligible polytrauma patients with hand injuries were included and a Quick Disability of Arm, Shoulder and Hand questionnaire (QDASH) and Patient-Rated Wrist/Hand Evaluation (PRWHE) were administered. Patients were contacted 1–6 years after trauma.ResultsIn a cohort of 2046 polytrauma patients 72 patients (3.5%) suffered a hand injury. The functional outcome scores of 52 patients (72%) were obtained. The Metacarpal (48%) and carpal (33%) bones were the most frequently affected. The median QDASH score for all patients with hand injury was 17 (IQR 0–31) and the PRWHE 14 (IQR 0–41). Patients with a concomitant upper extremity injury (p = 0.002 for PRWHE, p0.006 for QDASH) and those with higher ISS scores (p = 0.034 for PRWHE, QDASH not significant) had worse functional outcome scores. As an example, of the 5 patients with the worst outcome scores 3 suffered an isolated phalangeal injury, all had concomitant upper extremity injury or neurological injuries (3 plexus injuries, 1 severe brain injury).ConclusionThe incidence of hand injuries in polytrauma patients is 3.5%, which is relatively low compared to a general trauma population. Metacarpal and carpal bones were most frequently affected. The functional extremity specific outcome scores are highly influenced by concomitant injuries (upper extremity injuries, neurological injuries and higher ISS).     

Identification of concomitant injuries associated with specific spine level fractures in polytrauma patients

IntroductionSpine fractures are associated with high energy mechanisms and can lead to substantial morbidity and mortality in the trauma setting. Rapid identification and treatment of these fractures and their associated injuries are paramount in preventing adverse outcomes. The purpose of this study is to identify concomitant skeletal and non-skeletal injuries related to cervical, thoracic, and lumbar fractures.MethodsA retrospective review of institutional American College of Surgeons (ACS) registry was conducted on 3,399 consecutive trauma patients identifying those with spine fractures from 1/2016–12/2019. Two-hundred ninety patients were included(8.5%) and separated into three groups based on fracture location: eighty-eight cervical(C)-spine, 129thoracic(T)-spine, and 143lumbar(L)-spine. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify associated injuries, presenting injury severity score(ISS) and Glasgow coma scale(GCS), mechanism of injury, demographic data, substance use, and paralysis for each group. Cox hazard regression was utilized to identify factors associated with inpatient mortality.ResultsC-spine fractures were associated with head trauma(OR2.18,p = 0.003),intracranial bleeding (OR2.64,p = 0.001),facial(OR2.25,p = 0.02) and skull fractures(OR3.92,p = 0.001),and cervical cord injuries(OR4.78,p = 0.012). T-spine fractures were associated with rib fractures(OR2.31,p = 0.003). L-spine fractures were associated with rib(OR1.77, p = 0.04), pelvic(OR5.11,p<0.001), tibia/fibula (OR2.31,p = 0.05), and foot/ankle fractures(OR3.32,p = 0.04), thoracic(OR2.43,p = 0.008) and retroperitoneal cavity visceral injuries(OR27.3,p = 0.001). Falls≤6meters were also significantly associated with C-spine fractures(OR1.70,p = 0.04) while falls>6meters were associated with L-spine fractures(OR4.30,p = 0.001). Inpatient mortality risk increased in patients with C-spine fractures(HR4.41,p = 0.002), higher ISS(HR1.05, p<0.001), and lower GCS(HR0.85,p<0.001). Last, patients≥65-years-old were more likely to experience C-spine fractures(OR1.88,p = 0.03).ConclusionPatients who experience fractures of the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine are at risk for additional fractures, visceral injury, and/or death. Awareness of the associations between spinal fractures and other injuries can increase diagnostic efficacy, improve patient care, and provide valuable prognostic information. These associations highlight the importance of effective and timely communication and multidisciplinary collaboration.     

Tertiary survey in polytrauma patients should be an ongoing process

IntroductionDue to prioritisation in the initial trauma care, non-life threatening injuries can be overlooked or temporally neglected. Polytrauma patients in particular might be at risk for delayed diagnosed injuries (DDI). Studies that solely focus on DDI in polytrauma patients are not available. Therefore the aim of this study was to analyze DDI and determine risk factors associated with DDI in polytrauma patients.MethodsIn this single centre retrospective cohort study, patients were considered polytrauma when the Injury Severity Score was ≥16 as a result of injury in at least 2 body regions. Adult polytrauma patients admitted from 2007 until 2012 were identified. Hospital charts were reviewed to identify DDI.Results1416 polytrauma patients were analyzed of which 12% had DDI. Most DDI were found during initial hospital admission after tertiary survey (63%). Extremities were the most affected regions for all types of DDI (78%) with the highest intervention rate (35%). Most prevalent DDI were fractures of the hand (54%) and foot (38%). In 2% of all patients a DDI was found after discharge, consisting mainly of injuries other than a fracture. High energy trauma mechanism (OR 1.8, 95% CI 1.2–2.7), abdominal injury (OR 1.5, 95% CI 1.1–2.1) and extremity injuries found during initial assessment (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.6–3.3) were independent risk factors for DDI.ConclusionIn polytrauma patients, most DDI were found during hospital admission but after tertiary survey. This demonstrates that the tertiary survey should be an ongoing process and thus repeated daily in polytrauma patients. Most frequent DDI were extremity injuries, especially injuries of the hand and foot.     

Timing of intervention for spinal injury in patients with polytrauma

ObjectiveThe optimal timing of surgical intervention of spinal fractures in patients with polytrauma is still controversial. In the setting of trauma to multiple organ systems, an inappropriately timed definitive spine surgery can lead to increased incidence of pulmonary complications, hemodynamic instability and potentially death, while delayed surgical stabilisation has its attendant problems of prolonged recumbency including deep vein thrombosis, organ-sp ecific infection and pressure sores.MethodsA narrative review focussed at the epidemiology, demographics and principles of surgery for spinal trauma in poly-traumatised patients was performed. Pubmed search (1995–2020) based on the keywords – polytrauma OR multiple trauma AND spine fracture AND timing, present in “All the fields” of the search tab, was performed. Among 48 articles retrieved, 23 articles specific to the management of spinal fracture in polytrauma patients were reviewed.ResultsSpine trauma is noted in up to 30% of polytrauma patients. Unstable spinal fractures with or without spinal cord injury in polytrauma require surgical intervention and are treated based on the following principles - stabilizing the injured spine during resuscitation, acute management of life-and limb-threatening organ injuries, “damage control” internal stabilisation of unstable spinal injuries during the early acute phase and, definitive surgery at an appropriate window of opportunity. Early spine fracture fixation, especially in the setting of chest injury, reduces morbidity of pulmonary complications and duration of hospital stay.ConclusionRecognition and stabilisation of spinal fractures during resuscitation of polytrauma is important. Early posterior spinal fixation of unstable fractures, described as damage control spine surgery, is preferred while a delayed definitive 360° decompression is performed once the systemic milieu is optimal, if mandated for biomechanical and neurological indications.     

Mortality in polytrauma patients with moderate to severe TBI on par with isolated TBI patients: TBI as last frontier in polytrauma patients

BackgroundMortality caused by Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI) remains high, despite improvements in trauma and critical care. Polytrauma is naturally associated with high mortality. This study compared mortality rates between isolated TBI (_ITBI) patients and polytrauma patients with TBI (_PTBI) admitted to ICU to investigate if concomitant injuries lead to higher mortality amongst TBI patients.MethodsA 3-year cohort study compared polytrauma patients with TBI (_PTBI) with AIS head ≥3 (and AIS of other body regions ≥3) from a prospective collected database to isolated TBI (_ITBI) patients from a retrospective collected database with AIS head ≥3 (AIS of other body regions ≤2), both admitted to a single level-I trauma center ICU. Patients <16 years of age, injury caused by asphyxiation, drowning, burns and ICU transfers from and to other hospitals were excluded. Patient demographics, shock and resuscitation parameters, multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and mortality data were collected and analyzed for group differences.Results259 patients were included; 111 _PTBI and 148 _ITBI patients. The median age was 54 [33-67] years, 177 (68%) patients were male, median ISS was 26 [20-33]. Seventy-nine (31%) patients died. Patients with _PTBI developed more ARDS (7% vs. 1%, p = 0.041) but had similar MODS rates (18% vs. 10%, p = 0.066). They also stayed longer on the ventilator (7 vs. 3 days, p=<0.001), longer in ICU (9 vs. 4 days, p=<0.001) and longer in hospital (24 vs. 11 days, p=<0.001). TBI was the most prevalent cause of death in polytrauma patients. Patients with _PTBI showed no higher in-hospital mortality rate. Moreover, mortality rates were skewed towards _ITBI patients (24% vs. 35%, p = 0.06).DiscussionThere was no difference in mortality rates between _PTBI and _ITBI patients, suggesting TBI-severity as the predominant factor for ICU mortality in an era of ever improving acute trauma care.     

Incidence and predictors of missed injuries in trauma patients in the initial hot report of whole-body CT scan

BackgroundWhole-body CT scan is the cornerstone of trauma-related injury assessment. Several lines of evidence indicate that significant number of injuries may remain undetected after the initial hot report of CT. Missed injuries (MI) represent an important issue in trauma patients, for they may increase morbidity, mortality and costs. The aim of this study was to examine incidence and predictors of MI in trauma patients undergoing whole-body CT scan.Methods177 CT scan performed upon admission of trauma patients during year 2005 were reviewed by a radiologist blinded to patient's initial data. MI was defined as injuries not written in the initial report. Patients with and without MI were compared to determine predictors of MI by multivariable analysis.Results157 MI were diagnosed in 85 (47%) patients. MI was predominantly encoded AIS 2 (57%) or 3 (29%). Patients with MI had significantly higher SAPSII, higher ISS and were more frequently sedated. Age over 50 years (OR: 4.37, p = 0.003) and ISS over 14 (OR: 4.17, p < 0.0001) were independent predictors of MI. Median ISS after encoding MI was significantly higher than initial ISS (22 vs. 20 p < 0.0001). After adjustment for severity, mortality and length of stay were not different between patients with or without MI.ConclusionTrauma patients, especially aged and severe, experienced a high rate of missed injuries in the initial hot report which appeared to be predominantly minor and musculoskeletal, advocating a CT scan second reading.     

Displaced acromion fracture: A rare injury,case report

IntroductionAcromion fractures are extremely rare. There are no common accepted treatment schemes and fixation methods We aimed to present a case which may contribute to the diagnosis and treatment of acromion fracture in a patient with polytrauma.Presentation of caseAcromion fracture associated with scapula and clavicle fractures was diagnosed in 40 years old patient and treated with open reduction and cannulated screw fixation. The fracture healing was completed without causing subacromial impingement.DiscussionIn patients with polytrauma, diagnosis and treatment of acromion fractures can be delayed or overlooked. In improperly treated acromion fractures; pain, movement restriction, subacromial impingement, rotator cuff injury and symptomatic nonunion can occur.ConclusionWe recommend early surgical treatment for displaced acromion fractures, reduction of subacromial space and disruption of the superior shoulder suspensory complex.     

The impact of obesity on polytraumatized patients with operatively treated fractures

IntroductionThe objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of obesity on outcomes following operative treatment of fractures in obese polytrauma patients.MethodsThis was a prospective cohort study at a level I trauma centre from January 2014 until December 2017. The eligibility criteria were adult (age >= 18 years) polytrauma patients who presented with at least one orthopaedic fracture that required operative fixation. Polytrauma was defined as having an Injury Severity Score (ISS) >= 16. Out of 891 patients, a total of 337 were included with 85 being obese. The primary outcome variable was the total hospital length of stay in days. The secondary outcome variables were the number of patients who had an intensive care unit (ICU) admission, the ICU length of stay in days, the number of patients who had mechanical ventilation, the duration of mechanical ventilation in days, perioperative complications, and mortality.ResultsObesity was associated with increased total hospital stay (36 vs. 27 days; P<0.001), increased ICU stay (13 vs. 8 days; P = 0.04), increased ICU admissions (83.5% vs. 68.6%; P = 0.008) and increased incidence of mechanical ventilation (64.7% vs. 43.7%; P = 0.001). These findings remained statistically significant following adjusted regression models for age, gender, ISS, and injuries sustained. However, the mechanical ventilation duration was not significantly different between both groups on adjusted and unadjusted analyses. However, an increase per unit BMI significantly increases the duration of mechanical ventilation (P = 0.02). In terms of complications, obesity was only associated with an increase in acute renal failure (ARF) on unadjusted analyses (P = 0.004). Whereas, adjusted logistic regression demonstrated that an increase per BMI unit led to a significant increase in the odds ratio for wound infection (P = 0.03) and ARF (P = 0.024).ConclusionsThis study displayed that obesity was detrimental to polytrauma patients with operatively treated fractures leading to prolonged hospital and ICU length of stay. This highlights the importance of optimizing trauma care for obese polytraumatized patients to reduce morbidity. With 41.1% of our population being obese, obesity presents a unique challenge in the care of polytrauma patients which mandates further research in improving health care for this population group.     

Injuries associated with serious brachial plexus involvement in polytrauma among patients requiring surgical repair

Background

Brachial plexus injury occurs in up to 5% of polytrauma cases involving motorcycle crashes and in approximately 4% of severe winter sports injuries. One of the conditions for the success of operative therapy is early detection, ideally within three months of injury. The aim of this study was to evaluate associated injuries in patients with severe brachial plexus injury and determine whether there is a characteristic concomitant injury (or injuries), the presence of which, in the polytrauma, could act as a marker for nerve structures involvement and whether there are differences in severity of polytrauma accompanying specific types of brachial plexus injury.

Methods

We evaluated retrospectively 84 surgical patients from our department, from 2008 to 2011, that had undergone brachial plexus reconstruction. For all, an injury severity scale (ISS) score and all major associated injuries were determined.

Results

72% of patients had an upper, 26% had a complete and only 2% had a lower brachial plexus palsy. The main cause was motorcycle crashes (60%) followed by car crashes (15%). The average ISS was 35.2 (SD = 23.3), although, values were significantly higher in cases involving a coma (59.3, SD = 11.0). The lower and complete plexus injuries were significantly associated with coma and fractures of the shoulder girdle and injuries of lower limbs, thoracic organs and head. Upper plexus injuries were associated with somewhat less severe injuries of the upper and lower extremities and less severe injuries of the spine.

Conclusion

Serious brachial plexus injury is usually accompanied by other severe injuries. It occurs in high-energy trauma and it can be stated that patients involved in motorcycle and car crashes with multiple fractures of the shoulder girdle are at high risk of nerve trauma. This is especially true for patients in a primary coma. Lower and complete brachial plexus injuries are associated with higher injury severity scale.     

Analysis of radiation exposure to the orthopaedic trauma patient during their inpatient hospitalisation

PurposeThere has been considerable concern regarding radiation exposure to both the patient and treating surgeon and the possible risk of resulting malignancy. We sought to analyse the total effective dose of radiation that a cohort of orthopaedic trauma patients are exposed to during their inpatient hospitalisation and determine risk factors for greater exposure levels.MethodsFollowing approval from the Institution Review Board, a search was conducted of a level I trauma centre database for radiation exposures to patients over a 1 year period. Patients were included if they had an ICD-9 code from 805 to 828, indicating a fracture involving the trunk (805–811) or extremities (812–828). We compared the total effective radiation dose in various injury patterns as well as those considered to be polytrauma patients to those who were not according to their injury severity score (ISS).ResultsThe records of 1357 trauma patients were available for review. The average patient age was 40.6 years and the mean ISS was 14.1. The average effective radiation dose for all patients during their hospitalisation was 31.6 mSv. There was a statistically significant difference in radiation exposure between patients with an ISS greater than 16 (48.6 mSv) versus those with an ISS equal to or less than 16 (23.5 mSv), p < 0.001. Patients with spine trauma can be expected to get more than 15 mSv more radiation than non-spine patients, p < 0.001. Extremity injuries received the least amount of radiation, spine only patients were next, then finally spine and extremity injury patients had the greatest exposures. Having a spine fracture, a pelvic fracture, a chest wall injury, or a long bone fracture were all risk factors for having more than 20 mSv of effective dose exposure. Patients under the age of 18 years did receive less radiation than the remainder of the cohort, p < 0.001.ConclusionsThe average orthopaedic patient receives a total effective radiation dose of more than 30 mSv, much greater than is considered acceptable as a recommended permissible annual dose by the International Commission on Radiological Protection (20 mSv). These findings indicate that the average trauma patient (in particular those with polytrauma or fractures involving the spine, pelvis, chest wall, or long bones) is exposed to high levels of radiation during their inpatient hospitalisation. The treating physicians of such patients should take into consideration the large amounts of radiation their patients receive just during their initial hospitalisation, and be prudent with the ordering of imaging studies involving radiation exposure.     

Factors influencing management of bilateral femur fractures: A multicenter retrospective cohort of early versus delayed definitive Fixation

IntroductionThe purpose of our study was to evaluate the factors that influence the timing of definitive fixation in the management of bilateral femoral shaft fractures and the outcomes for patients with these injuries.MethodsPatients with bilateral femur fractures treated between 1998 to 2019 at ten level-1 trauma centers were retrospectively reviewed. Patients were grouped into early or delayed fixation, which was defined as definitive fixation of both femurs within or greater than 24 hours from injury, respectively. Statistical analysis included reversed logistic odds regression to predict which variable(s) was most likely to determine timing to definitive fixation. The outcomes included age, sex, high-volume institution, ISS, GCS, admission lactate, and admission base deficit.ResultsThree hundred twenty-eight patients were included; 164 patients were included in the early fixation group and 164 patients in the delayed fixation group. Patients managed with delayed fixation had a higher Injury Severity Score (26.8 vs 22.4; p<0.01), higher admission lactate (4.4 and 3.0; p<0.01), and a lower Glasgow Coma Scale (10.7 vs 13; p<0.01). High-volume institution was the most reliable influencer for time to definitive fixation, successfully determining 78.6% of patients, followed by admission lactate, 64.4%. When all variables were evaluated in conjunction, high-volume institution remained the strongest contributor (X² statistic: institution: 45.6, ISS: 8.83, lactate: 6.77, GCS: 0.94).ConclusionIn this study, high-volume institution was the strongest predictor of timing to definitive fixation in patients with bilateral femur fractures. This study demonstrates an opportunity to create a standardized care pathway for patients with these injuries.Level of EvidenceLevel III     

Demographics,mechanism of injury,and associated injuries of 25,615 patients with talus fractures in the National Trauma Data Bank

BackgroundExtensive research has been conducted concerning the epidemiology of fractures of the calcaneus and ankle. However, less work has characterized the population sustaining talus fractures, necessitating the analysis of a large, national sample to assess the presentation of this important injury.MethodsThe current study included adult patients from the 2011 through 2015 National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) who had talus fractures. Modified Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), mechanism of injury (MOI), Injury Severity Score (ISS), and associated injuries were evaluated.ResultsOut of 25,615 talus fracture patients, 15,607 (61%) were males. The age distribution showed a general decline in frequency as age increased after a peak incidence at 21 years of age. As expected, CCI increased as age increased. The mechanism of injury analysis showed a decline in motor vehicle accidents (MVAs) and an increase in falls as age increased. ISS was generally higher for MVAs compared to falls and other injuries.Overall, 89% of patients with a talus fracture had an associated injury. Among associated bony injuries, non-talus lower extremity fractures were common, with ankle fractures (noted in 42.7%) and calcaneus fractures (noted in 27.8%) being the most notable. The most common associated internal organ injuries were lung (noted in 19.0%) and intracranial injuries (noted in 14.9%).ConclusionThis large cohort of patients with talus fractures defined the demographics of those who sustain this injury and demonstrated ankle and calcaneus fractures to be the most commonly associated injuries. Other associated orthopaedic and non-orthopaedic injuries were also defined. In fact, the incidence of associated lumbar spine fracture was similar to that seen for calcaneus fractures (14%) and nearly 1 in 5 patients had a thoracic organ injury. Clinicians need to maintain a high suspicion for such associated injuries for those who present with talus fractures.Level of EvidenceLevel II, retrospective study     

Epidemiology of abdominal trauma: An age- and sex-adjusted incidence analysis with mortality patterns

PurposeAbdominal injuries may occur in up to one-third of all patients who suffer severe trauma, but little is known about epidemiological trends and characteristics in a Northern European setting. This study investigated injury demographics, and epidemiological trends in trauma patients admitted with abdominal injuries.MethodsThis was an observational cohort study of all consecutive patients admitted to Stavanger University Hospital (SUH) with a documented abdominal injury between January 2004 and December 2018. Injury demographics, age- and sex-adjusted incidence, and mortality patterns are analyzed across three time periods.ResultsAmong 7202 admitted trauma patients, 449 (6.2%) suffered abdominal injuries. The median age was 31 years, and the age increased significantly over time (from a median of 25 years to a median of 38.5 years; p = 0.020). Patients with ASA 2 and 3 increased significantly over time. Men accounted for 70% (316/449). The injury mechanism was blunt in 91% (409/449). Transport-related accidents were the most frequent cause of injury in 57% (257/449). The median Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 21, and the median New Injury Severity Score (NISS) was 25. The annual adjusted incidence of all abdominal injuries was 7.2 per 100,000. Solid-organ injuries showed an annual adjusted incidence of 5.7 per 100,000. The most frequent organ injury was liver injury, found in 38% (169/449). Multiple abdominal injuries were recorded in 44% (197/449) and polytrauma in 51% (231/449) of the patients. Overall 30-day mortality was 12.5% (56/449) and 90-day mortality 13.6% (61/449).ConclusionThe overall adjusted incidence rate of abdominal injuries remained stable. Age at presentation increased by over a decade, more often presenting with pre-existing comorbidities (ASA 2 and 3). The proportion of polytrauma patients was significantly reduced over time. Mortality rates were declining, although not statistically significant.     

High-energy trauma patients with pelvic fractures: Management trends in Ontario,Canada

IntroductionAlthough fractures of the pelvic ring account for only 2–3% of all fractures, they are present in approximately 7–20% of patients with high-energy polytrauma. High-energy pelvic fractures are life-threatening injuries, with mortality estimates ranging from 6 to 35%. The purpose of this study was to examine trends in the incidence, diagnosis, treatment, and mortality rates of high-energy pelvic fractures in Ontario, Canada over a 10-year period.MethodsA cohort of 3915 patients who sustained a high-energy pelvic fracture in Ontario between 01 April 2005 and 31 March 2015 was identified using the Ontario Trauma Registry and administrative healthcare data linked by the Institute for Clinical Evaluative Science (ICES). Severely injured patients (defined as having an Injury Severity Score (ISS) of ≥16) with pelvic fractures following high-velocity mechanisms of injury were identified using applicable ICD-10 codes. Trends were assessed statistically using the Poisson and the Cochrane-Armitage tests for trend. Modified Poisson regression was used to model the adjusted risk ratio of mortality by pelvic fracture treatment.ResultsThe incidence of pelvic fracture remained constant at approximately 4.6 cases per 100,000 population annually between 2005 and 2011. From 2012, there was a decrease in patients with ISS ≥ 16 due to changes in the calculation of the ISS. The proportion of patients presenting with ISS > 50 increased from 8.2% to 14.1% (p = 0.008) over the study period. Automobile collisions or pedestrians struck by vehicles accounted for over half of injuries. Approximately 6% of patients underwent angioembolisation. Treatment with external fixation (15.5%–20.2%) or no surgical intervention (46.2%–61.3%) increased from 2005 to 2015. Mortality remained constant (11% at 30 days), and laparotomy was the only major intervention not associated with decreased risk of death.ConclusionsStable mortality despite increasing injury severity suggests that the quality of care provided to patients with high-energy pelvic fractures has improved over time. However, unchanged incidence suggests the need for ongoing efforts aimed towards injury prevention. ISS at presentation was the most significant predictor of mortality in this patient population.     

Delayed diagnosis of hand injuries in polytrauma patients

ABSTRACT: Trauma patients are at high risk for delayed diagnosis of injuries, including those to the hand, with reports in the literature as high as 50%. As a result, patients may have prolonged disability and longer hospital stays with associated increased costs. Our objective was to elucidate risk factors for the delayed diagnosis of hand injuries.A review was performed from 2000 through 2009, assessing for age, sex, blood alcohol level, Glasgow Coma Score (GCS), Injury Severity Score (ISS), mechanism, injury type, length of stay, and timing of hand injury diagnosis.In this study, 36,568 patients were identified; 738 meeting criteria; 21.7% of patients had delayed diagnoses with 91.3% of patients diagnosed by the day after admission. Delayed diagnoses were more than 2 times higher for severely injured patients. Patients with delayed diagnoses had a lower GCS and a higher ISS and length of hospitalization.With a decreased GCS and elevated ISS, patients are at risk for delayed diagnoses of hand injuries. A focused tertiary survey is mandatory, particularly in patients with an altered mental status or with multiple injuries.     

RIB fracture triage pathway decreases ICU utilization,pulmonary complications and hospital length of stay

IntroductionRib fractures are one of the most frequent causes of morbidity following blunt injury to the chest. Many of these patients require ICU care and often develop pulmonary complications. Prior studies have attempted to identify changes in predicted lung volumes or utilized the number of rib fractures to guide clinical decisions. A rib fracture triage pathway was developed to identify which patients will benefit from ICU level of care and shorten hospital length of stay for patients that do not require ICU care.MethodsThe triage pathway utilized patient's age, number of rib fractures, significant cardiopulmonary co-morbidities, and incentive spirometry volumes to determine admission disposition. The triage pathway was implemented on November 2016. All patients with rib fractures from November 2015 to 2017 were identified in the trauma registry. Data was collected on patients age, gender, Glasgow Coma Scale on arrival (GCS), injury severity score (ISS), number of rib fractures, incentive spirometry volumes, days in intensive care (ICU), ventilator days, length of stay (LOS), complications, and mortality. Patients with severe TBI, those arriving intubated, or died within 48 h were excluded. The patients remaining were 278 patients in the pre triage pathway group and 370 in the post triage pathway.ResultsThere was no difference in age, gender, GCS, ISS, predicted incentive spirometry or number of rib fractures. The post treatment patients required significantly lower ICU admissions (64% vs 75%, p = 0.003), significantly lower pulmonary complication (5.1% vs 10.4%, p = 0.01), and significantly shorter hospital length of stay (6.8 d vs 7.5, p = 0.001) with no difference in mortality (1.6% vs 2.5%, p = 0.42) or readmission (0.3% vs. 0.7%, p = 0.4). Patient post triage protocol were also more likely to be discharge home (81% vs 70%, p = 0.0009) with less patients going to a skilled nursing facility (13% vs 21%, p = 0.01).ConclusionsDeveloping a rib fracture treatment and triage pathway can decrease ICU and hospital resource utilization and decrease pulmonary complications without increase in readmissions or mortality. Patients are more likely to be discharge home over a skilled nursing facility further decreasing health care cost. Level of Evidence IV Retrospective Study, Prognostic     

Temporary intravascular shunts after civilian arterial injury: A prospective multicenter Eastern Association for the Surgery of Trauma study

IntroductionWe sought to determine the impact of the indication for shunt placement on shunt-related outcomes after major arterial injuries. We hypothesized that a shunt placed for damage control indications would be associated with an increase in shunt-related complications including shunt dislodgement, thrombosis, or distal ischemia.Patients & methodsA prospective, multicenter study (eleven level one US trauma centers) of all adult trauma patients undergoing temporary intravascular shunts (TIVS) after arterial injury was undertaken (January 2017-May 2019). Exclusion criteria included age <15years, shunt placement distal to popliteal/brachial arteries, isolated venous shunts, and death before shunt removal. Clinical variables were compared by indication and shunt-related complications. The primary endpoint was TIVS complications (thrombosis, migration, distal ischemia).ResultsThe 66 patients who underwent TIVS were primarily young (30years [IQR 22-36]) men (85%), severely injured (ISS 17 [10-25]) by penetrating mechanisms (59%), and had their shunts placed for damage control (41%). After a median SDT of 198min [89-622], 9% experienced shunt-related complications. Compared by shunt placement indication (damage control shunts [n=27] compared to non-damage control shunts [n=39]), there were no differences in gender, mechanism, extremity AIS, MESS score, fractures, or surgeon specialty between the two groups (all p>0.05). Patients with shunts placed for damage control indications had more severe injuries (ISS 23.5 compared to 13; SBP 100 compared to 129; GCS 11 compared to 15; lactate 11.5 compared to 3.6; all p<0.05), and had more frequent shunt complication predictors, but damage control shunts did not have significantly more TIVS complications (11.1% compared to 7.7%, p=0.658). Shunt complication patients were discharged home less often (33% vs 65%; p<0.05) but all survived.ConclusionShunts placed for damage control indications were not associated with shunt complications in this prospective, multicenter study.     

The association of hand and wrist injuries with other injuries in multiple trauma patients. A retrospective study in a UK Major Trauma Centre

BackgroundApproximately 20,000 major trauma cases occur in England every year. However, the association with concomitant upper limb injuries is unknown. This study aims to determine the incidence, injury pattern and association of hand and wrist injuries with other body injuries and the Injury Severity Score (ISS) in multiply injured trauma patients.MethodsSingle centre retrospective study was performed at a level-one UK Major Trauma Centre (MTC). Trauma Audit and Research Network (TARN) eligible multiply injured trauma patients that were admitted to the hospital between January 2014 and December 2018 were analysed. TARN is the national trauma registry. Eligible patients were: a trauma patient of any age who was admitted for 72 h or more, or was admitted to intensive care, or died at the hospital, was transferred into the hospital for specialist care, was transferred to another hospital for specialist care or for an intensive care bed and whose isolated injuries met a set of criteria. Data extracted included: age, gender, mode of arrival, location of injuries including: hand and/or wrist and mechanism of injury. We performed a logistic regression analysis to assess the association between hand/wrist injury to ISS score of 15 points or above/below and to the presentation of other injuries.Results107 patients were analysed. Hand and wrist injuries were the second most common injury (26.2%), after thoracic injuries. Distal radial injuries were found in 5.6%, carpal/carpometacarpal in 6.5%, concurrent distal radius and carpometacarpal in 0.9%, phalangeal injuries in 4.7%, tendon injuries in 0.9% and concurrent hand and wrist injuries in 7.5% cases. There was a significant association between hand or wrist injuries and lower limb injuries (Odds Ratio (OR): 3.84; 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.09 to 13.50; p = 0.04) and pelvic injuries (OR: 4.78; 95% CI: 1.31 to 17.44; p = 0.02). There was no statistical association between hand and wrist injuries and ISS score (OR: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.11 to 5.79; p = 0.82).ConclusionsHand and wrist injuries are prevalent in trauma patients admitted to MTCs. They should not be under-estimated but routinely screened for in multiply injured patients particularly those with a pelvic or lower limb injury.     

Combat-related acetabular fractures: Outcomes of open versus closed injuries

IntroductionSince the onset of the Global War on Terror close to 50,000 United States service members have been injured in combat, many of these injuries would have previously been fatal. Among these injuries, open acetabular fractures are at an increased number due to the high percentage of penetrating injuries such as high velocity gunshot wounds and blast injuries. These injuries lead to a greater degree of contamination, and more severe associated injuries. There is a significantly smaller proportion of the classic blunt trauma mechanism typically seen in civilian trauma.MethodsWe performed a retrospective review of the Department of Defense Trauma Registry into which all US combat-injured patients are enrolled, as well as reviewed local patient medical records, and radiologic studies from March 2003 to April 2012. Eighty seven (87) acetabular fractures were identified with 32 classified as open fractures. Information regarding mechanism of injury, fracture pattern, transfusion requirements, Injury Severity Score (ISS), and presence of lower extremity amputations was analyzed.ResultsThe mechanism of injury was an explosive device in 59% (n = 19) of patients with an open acetabular fracture; the remaining 40% (n = 13) were secondary to ballistic injury. In contrast, in the closed acetabular fracture cohort 38% (21/55) of fractures were due to explosive devices, and all remaining (n = 34) were secondary to blunt trauma such as falls, motor vehicle collisions, or aircraft crashes. Patients with open acetabular fractures required a median of 17units of PRBC within the first 24 h after injury. The mean ISS was 32 in the open group compared with 22 in the closed group (p = 0.003). In the open fracture group nine patients (28%) sustained bilateral lower extremity amputations, and 10 patients (31%) ultimately underwent a hip disarticulation or hemi-pelvectomy as their final amputation level.DiscussionOpen acetabular fractures represent a significant challenge in the management of combat-related injuries. High ISS and massive transfusion requirements are common in these injuries. This is one of the largest series reported of open acetabular fractures. Open acetabular fractures require immediate damage control surgery and resuscitation as well as prolonged rehabilitation due to their severity. The dramatic number of open acetabular fractures (37%) in this review highlights the challenge in treatment of combat related acetabular fractures.