The risk factors for the development of complications during the recovery phase following blunt chest wall trauma: A retrospective study

Study objective

The difficulties in the management of the blunt chest wall trauma patient in the Emergency Department (ED) due to the development of late complications are well recognised in the literature. The aim of this study was to investigate the risk factors for the development of complications in the recovery phase following blunt chest wall trauma.

Methods

A retrospective study was completed in which the medical notes were analysed of all blunt chest wall trauma patients presenting to a large trauma centre in South Wales in 2009 and 2010. Using univariate and multivariable logistic regression analysis, the risk factors for development of complications during the recovery phase following blunt chest wall trauma were investigated.

Results

Risk factors for development of complications in the recovery phase following blunt chest wall trauma in the univariate analysis were a patient age of 65 years or more, three or more rib fractures, presence of chronic lung disease or cardiovascular disease, pre-injury anticoagulant use and blood oxygen saturation levels of less than 90%. On multivariable analysis, the risk factors were three or more rib fractures, chronic lung disease, pre-injury anticoagulant use and oxygen saturations of less than 90%.

Conclusion

A number of risk factors have been presented in this study which should be considered in the management of the blunt chest wall trauma patient. This is the first study in which a number of the risk factors have been investigated and this may provide the basis for further prospective studies.