CT scan and Diagnostic Peritoneal Lavage: towards a better diagnosis in the area of nonoperative management of blunt abdominal trauma

BackgroundThe diagnosis of small bowel and mesenteric injuries (BBMI) after blunt abdominal trauma remains difficult, which results in delayed treatment and increased mortality and morbidity. Diagnostic peritoneal lavage (DPL) in patients with 1 or 2 abnormal CT findings that are suggestive of BBMI was proposed, but the rate of unnecessary surgical exploration remains high.Patients and methodsBlunt abdominal trauma patients with 1 or 2 CT findings predictive of BBMI from 2001 to 2014 underwent a DPL with calculation of a cell count ratio (CCR) dividing the ratio of white blood cells (WBCs) to red blood cells (RBCs) (WBC/RBC ratio) in the lavage fluid by the WBC/RBC ratio in peripheral blood. Surgical exploration of the abdomen was performed immediately in cases with a CCR ≥ 1. CT findings, DPL and surgery results, and global outcome were analyzed.ResultsThirty-seven were included in the study (27 males, median age of 30 years (range, 17–69 years)). Exploratory laparotomy was performed in 24 patients (65%). Sixteen patients (67%) had BBMI: 7 hollow organ perforations or tears (29%), including 4 bowel resection with primary anastomosis and 3 single sutures, and 9 patients had mesenteric injuries. CT findings associated with BBMI and hollow organ perforation were large peritoneal effusion (p = 0.02) and small bowel wall abnormalities (p = 0.002). No postoperative complications were observed. Sensitivity and specificity of DPL for the diagnosis of bowel injuries were respectively 100% (CI 95% [59–100]) and 43% (CI 95% [25–63]). The sensitivity remained 100% (CI 95% [59–100]) when the ratio was ≥4 (n = 10 patients), and the specificity reached 90% (CI 95% [73–98]).ConclusionDPL is sensitive for the diagnosis of BBMI in stable trauma patients with 1 or 2 unexplained CT abnormalities, but specificity is low with a high rate of nontherapeutic laparotomy in case of CCR ≥ 1. Indications for exploratory laparotomy could be restricted to patients with a CCR ≥ 4 to improve the specificity of diagnosis management.     

Avoiding delayed diagnosis of significant blunt bowel and mesenteric injuries: Can a scoring tool make the difference? A 7-year retrospective cohort study

IntroductionSignificant blunt bowel and mesenteric injuries (sBBMI) are frequently missed despite the widespread use of computed tomography (CT). Early treatment improves the outcome related to these injuries. The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of sBBMI, the incidence of delayed diagnosis and to test the performance of the Bowel Injury Prediction Score (BIPS), determined by the white blood cell (WBC) count, presence or absence of abdominal tenderness and CT grade of mesenteric injury.Patients and methodsSingle-centre, registry-based retrospective cohort study, screening all consecutive trauma patients admitted to Lausanne University Hospital Trauma Centre from 2008 to 2015 after a road traffic accident. All patients with reliable information about the presence or absence of sBBMI who underwent abdominal CT and for whom calculation of the BIPS was possible were included for analysis. The incidence of delayed (>24 h after admission) diagnosis in the patient group with sBBMI was determined and the diagnostic performance of the BIPS for sBBMI was assessed.ResultsFor analysis, 766 patients with reliable information about the presence or absence of sBBMI were included. The prevalence of sBBMI was 3.1% (24/766). In 24% (5/21) of stable trauma patients undergoing CT, a diagnostic delay of more than 24 h occurred. Abdominal tenderness (p < 0.0001) and CT grade ≥4 (p < 0.0001) were associated with sBBMI, whereas CT grade 4 alone (p = 0.93) and WBC count ≥17 G/l (p = 0.30) were not. A BIPS ≥2 had a sensitivity of 89% (95% CI, 67–99), specificity of 89% (95% CI, 86–91), positive likelihood ratio of 8 (95% CI, 6.1–10), negative likelihood ratio of 0.12 (95% CI, 0.03–0.44), positive predictive value (PPV) of 19% (95% CI, 15–24) and negative predictive value (NPV) of 99.7% (95% CI, 98.7–99.9). CT alone identified 79% (15/19) and the BIPS 89% (17/19) of patients with sBBMI (p = 0.66).ConclusionsDiagnostic delays in patients with sBBMI are common (24%), despite the routine use of abdominal CT. Application of the BIPS on the present cohort would have led to a high number of non-therapeutic abdominal explorations without identifying significantly more sBBMI early than CT alone.     

Unenhanced CT for clinical triage of elderly patients presenting to the emergency department with acute abdominal pain

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to compare the diagnostic accuracy and inter-reader agreement of unenhanced computed tomography (CT) to those of contrast-enhanced CT for triage of patients older than 75 years admitted to emergency department (ED) with acute abdominal pain (AAP).Patients and methodsTwo hundred and eight consecutive patients presenting with AAP to the ED who underwent CT with unenhanced and contrast-enhanced images were retrospectively included. There were 90 men and 118 women with a mean age of 85.4 ± 4.9 (SD) (range: 75–101.4 years). Three readers reviewed unenhanced CT images first, and then unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT images as a single set. Diagnostic accuracy was compared to the standard of reference defined as the final diagnosis obtained after complete clinico-biological and radiological evaluation. Correctness of the working diagnosis proposed by the ED physician was evaluated. Intra- and inter-reader agreements were calculated using the kappa test and interclass correlation. Subgroup analyses were performed for patients requiring only conservative management and for those requiring intervention.ResultsDiagnostic accuracy ranged from 64% (95% CI: 62–66%) to 68% (95% CI: 66–70%) for unenhanced CT, and from 68% (95% CI: 66–70%) to 71% (95% CI: 69–73%) for both unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT. Contrast-enhanced CT did not significantly improve the diagnostic accuracy (P = 0.973–0.979). CT corrected the working diagnosis proposed by the ED physician in 59.1% (range: 58.1–60.0%) and 61.2% (range: 57.6–65.5%) of patients before and after contrast injection (P > 0.05). Intra-observer agreement was moderate to substantial (k = 0.513–0.711). Inter-reader agreement was substantial for unenhanced (kappa = 0.745–0.789) and combined unenhanced and contrast-enhanced CT (kappa = 0.745–0.799). Results were similar in subgroup analyses.ConclusionUnenhanced CT alone is accurate and associated with high degrees of inter-reader agreement for clinical triage of patients older than 75 years with AAP in the emergency setting.     

A 20-year Experience with Portal and Superior Mesenteric Venous Injuries: Has Anything Changed?

ObjectivesTo identify predictive factors causing mortality in patients with injuries to the portal (PV) and superior mesenteric veins (SMV).DesignRetrospective analysis of prospectively collected data.Materials and methodsAdults admitted with blunt or penetrating PV and SMV injuries at an academic level I trauma center during a 20-year period.ResultsOf 26,387 major trauma victims admitted from 1987 through 2006, 26 sustained PV or SMV injuries (PV = 15, SMV = 11). Mechanism of injury was penetrating in 19 (73%) and 20 were in shock. Active hemorrhage occurred in 21. Most patients had associated injuries (2.9 ± 1.8/patient). Mean Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 27.8 ± 16.8. All PV injuries underwent suture repair and 27% of SMV injuries were ligated. Overall mortality was 46% (PV = 47%, SMV = 45%). Stab wounds had a lower mortality (31%) compared to gunshot wounds (67%) and blunt injuries (57%). Nonsurvivors had a higher ISS (35.8 vs. 20.9; p = 0.02), more associated injuries (3.7 vs. 2.2; p = 0.02), were older, and had active hemorrhage. Active hemorrhage (p = 0.04) was independently related to death while shock on admission (odds ratio = 6.1, p = 0.61) trended toward higher mortality.ConclusionDespite improvements in trauma care, mortality of PV and SMV injuries remains high. Shock, active hemorrhage, and associated injuries were predictive of increased mortality.     

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.     

The concentration of desflurane preventing spectral entropy change during surgical stimulation: A prospective randomized trial

Study objectiveTo determine the concentration of desflurane necessary to blunt changes in spectral entropy during surgical incision when two different target-controlled effect-site concentrations of remifentanil (1 and 3 ng/ml) were infused.DesignProspective, randomized controlled study.SettingOperating room of a university hospital.InterventionsForty-two patients undergoing general anesthesia for elective surgery were enrolled and randomly allocated to the R1 (1 ng/ml of remifentanil, n = 21) or R3 (3 ng/ml of remifentanil, n = 21) group. After at least a 10-min administration of target-controlled remifentanil concentration and predetermined end-tidal desflurane following endotracheal intubation, changes in spectral entropy in response to surgical incision were evaluated.MeasurementsConcentration of desflurane necessary to blunt changes in spectral entropy during surgical incision for each group was determined using Dixon's up-and-down method. Hemodynamic variables including mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were measured.Main resultsConcentration of desflurane necessary to blunt changes in spectral entropy during surgical incision in 50% of patients (EC₅₀) was 4.1% (95% CI: 3.5–4.7%) for the R1 group and 3.4% (95% CI: 3.0–3.8%) for the R3 group (P = 0.033). Additionally, the calculated EC₉₅ values using the logistic regression analysis for the R1 and R3 groups were 5.8% (95% CI: 5.0–10.8%) and 5.1% (95% CI: 4.3–10.6%), respectively. MAPs and HRs were significantly higher in the R1 than in the R3 group after surgical incision.ConclusionsDesflurane 4.1% with remifentanil 1 ng/ml and desflurane 3.4% with remifentanil 3 ng/ml significantly blunt the change in spectral entropy after surgical incision in 50% of patients.     

Are standard antero-posterior and 20° caudal radiographs a true assessment of mid-shaft clavicular fracture displacement?

AimsDecision-making in management of clavicle fractures is often based on the degree of displacement and shortening present on plain radiographs. We aimed to evaluate whether plain radiographs provide an accurate representation of the true displacement present, which can be difficult to image in orthogonal planes.MethodsConsecutive high-energy trauma patients with midshaft clavicular fractures requiring further CT imaging of the thorax/abdomen for other associated injuries between 2009 and 2012 were evaluated. The plain radiographs and CT scan were both performed at initial presentation. Displacement and shortening of the clavicle fracture were assessed on the standard clavicle views and then compared with the axial images obtained from CT scans.Results26 patients admitted following a high-energy trauma that necessitated CT scan of chest/abdomen/pelvis were included. All patients also underwent standard clavicle view radiographs at the same initial assessment. Displacement varied from 0 to 233%. Shortening was measured as between 0 and 29 mm. The displacement measured on the CT scan was a mean of 19% greater than the AP view and 11% greater than the 20° caudal. This difference was found to be statistically significant (p = 0.019) between the AP view and the axial view on CT. The difference between 20° caudal views did not extend to statistical significance (p = 0.211). There were no significant differences found between the two modalities on assessment of shortening.ConclusionsPlain radiographs give an accurate representation of the shortening present in midshaft clavicle fractures. Displacement may be underestimated if the standard AP and 20° caudal views alone are relied upon.     

Estudio observacional retrospectivo correlacionando las fracturas traumáticas de pelvis y sus lesiones asociadas según la clasificación de Tile

IntroductionPelvic fractures due to high energy trauma present a high risk of associated injuries that compromise the functional and vital prognosis of the patients. The objective of this study was to analyze the relationship between traumatic pelvic fractures and their associated injuries according to the Tile classification.MethodsRetrospective observational study of patients who suffered traumatic pelvic fractures (Type A, B or C of the Tile classification) with concomitant associated injuries, analyzing hemoglobin levels, between 6/2013 and 1/2016.ResultsA total of 42 patients were included; of those 69% (n = 29) were males, mean age was 48 years. 45% (n = 19) suffered traffic accidents and 26.2% (n = 11) falls. There was a different proportion in pelvic injuries: Tile A (n = 15, 35.7%), B (n = 20, 47.6%), and C (n = 7, 16.6%) of cases. 54.8% (n = 23) underwent surgery, 21.4% (n = 9) needed temporary or definitive external fixation. Significant differences were found between Tile A type and scapula fractures (P=.032), and Tile B with sacral fractures (P=.033) and visceral injuries (P=.049), while there is a tendency without a statistical significal between Tile C and costal fractures. 61.9% (n = 26) needed blood transfusion; 9.5% (n = 4) presented hypovolemic shock.ConclusionsTile A pelvic fractures were associated with scapular fractures, and Tile B with transforaminal fractures of the sacrum and with visceral injuries (lungs, liver and genitourinary). The small number of Tile C prevent us to confirm an association with any pathology, although they are the ones which presnt more hemodynamically instability and thoracic injuries.     

Are bilateral tibial shaft fractures associated with an increased risk for adverse outcome?

IntroductionLong bone fractures are assumed to be an independent risk factor for systemic complications and death after trauma. Multiple studies have identified an increased risk for mortality and morbidity in patients with bilateral femoral fractures. Data about bilateral tibial shaft fractures is rare. The aim of our study was to analyze if patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures are at higher risk for systemic complications.MethodsWe performed a retrospective analysis of the TraumaRegister DGU^® from 1993 to 2008. Inclusion criteria were unilateral or bilateral tibial shaft fractures and an age ≥16. Additionally to the overall collective we analyzed different subgroups (divided into different injury severities and treatment periods).Results1899 patients with unilateral and 175 patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures were included. Age, gender and mean ISS (25.8 vs. 26.2, p = 0.51) in the two groups were comparable. Regarding the entire study population, patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures showed no significant higher incidence of respiratory organ failure (29.5% vs. 23.1%, p = 0.076) or mortality (20.0% vs. 16.3%, p = 0.203). However, subgroup analysis showed a significant higher rate of pulmonary organ failure for bilateral tibial shaft fractures as compared to unilateral tibial shaft fractures in the group ISS < 25 (20.7% vs. 11.7%, p = 0.023). Multivariate regression analysis identified the additional tibial shaft fracture as an independent risk factor for pulmonary organ failure (OR = 1.56) but not for mortality.DiscussionThe additional tibial shaft fracture is an independent risk factor for pulmonary organ failure but not for multiple organ failure or mortality. The impact of the additional tibial shaft fracture is especially pronounced in less severely injured patients (ISS < 25). These findings are comparable to results of bilateral femoral fracture studies and we therefore suggest to treat patients with bilateral tibial shaft fractures with the same caution as those with bilateral femoral fractures.     

Absence of association between inflammatory dietary pattern and low trauma fractures: Results of the French cohort NutriNet-Santé

IntroductionThe aim of our study was to assess the association between the Alternate Dietary Inflammatory Index (ADII) and the risk of fracture in a French cohort of women and men older than 50 years.MethodsA total of 15,096 participants were included from the French NutriNet-Santé cohort. The ADII score was calculated at inclusion. Incident low trauma fractures were retrospectively self-reported by participants on a specific additional questionnaire. Multivariate hazard ratio obtained from Cox proportional hazard regression models were used to characterize an association between ADII (in quartiles) and incident low trauma fractures.ResultsIn all, 12,046 participants (7607 (63.2%) women and 4439 (36.8%) men) were included in our study. For fractures, 806 (10.6%) and 191 (4.3%) low trauma fractures were recorded respectively in women and in men. Mean ADII was −1.23 (± 3.13) for women and −0.87 (± 3.64) for men. No association was detected between the ADII score and the risk of vertebral fracture (P = 0.21), major osteoporotic fracture (P = 0.93) and any low trauma fracture (P = 0.72) in women nor in men (P = 0.06 for major fracture and P = 0.10 for low trauma fracture) after adjustment for sociodemographic, lifestyle variables and for bone treatments.ConclusionThis study in postmenopausal women and men older than 50 years from the general population did not show any association between inflammatory dietary pattern measured using the ADII and the risk of incident low trauma fracture.     

Malalignment after minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis in distal femoral fractures

IntroductionAlthough minimally invasive plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) is a preferred operative treatment for fractures of the distal femur, malalignment is a significant concern because of indirect reduction of the fracture. The purpose of this study, therefore, was to evaluate radiologic alignment after MIPO for distal femoral fractures.Patients and methodsOf the 138 patients with fracture of the distal femur who underwent MIPO, we enrolled 51 patients in whom bilateral rotational alignment could be assessed by postoperative computed tomography (CT). The patients included 32 men and 19 women, with a mean age of 54.3 years. Thirteen patients had femoral shaft fractures (according to the AO/OTA classification: 32-A, n = 2; 32-B, n = 6; 32-C, n = 5), whereas 38 patients had distal femoral fractures (33-A, n = 7; 33-C, n = 31). Coronal and sagittal alignments were assessed using simple radiography, whereas rotational alignment was assessed using CT. According to the difference between the affected and unaffected sides, we divided the patients into satisfactory and unsatisfactory groups (reference point of 8°, using Handolin’s classification). Thereafter, we determined which factors can lead to malalignment, including fracture location (distal femoral shaft fracture or metaphyseal fracture), fracture pattern (simple fracture, n = 15; complex fractures, n = 36 patients), coronal and sagittal alignments, and combined ipsilateral long bone fractures.ResultsCoronal and sagittal alignment were satisfactory in 96.2% (average, 2.8°) and 98% (average, 2.2°), respectively, whereas the rotational alignment was satisfactory in 56.9% of patients. Leg length discrepancy was satisfactory in 92.3% of the patients (average, 10.9 mm). Concerning rotational malalignment, an unsatisfactory result was obtained in 48.6% of subjects with complex fractures and 26.7% of subjects with simple fractures (p = 0.114). No significant correlation was noted between the angular deformity in the coronal and sagittal planes and the degree of rotational alignment (p = 0.607 and 0.774, respectively).ConclusionsRegardless of the fracture pattern, rotational malalignment may occur at an extremely high rate after MIPO for fractures of the distal femur.     

Relative hypotension increases the probability of the need for angioembolisation in pelvic fracture patients without contrast extravasation on computed tomography scan

IntroductionIn the evaluation of haemorrhage in trauma patients with pelvic fractures, contrast extravasation (CE) on computed tomography (CT) scan often implies active arterial bleeding. However, the absence of CE on CT scan does not always exclude the need for transcatheter arterial embolisation (TAE) to achieve haemostasis. In the current study, we evaluated the factors associated with the need for TAE in patients without CE on CT scan. These factors may be evaluated as adjuncts to CT scanning in the management of patients with pelvic fractures.MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed our trauma registry and medical records of patients with pelvic fractures. When CE was observed, indicating active haemorrhage, the patients underwent TAE to achieve haemostasis. In contrast, patients without CE were held for observation and treatment of their injuries, and if their condition deteriorated after a delayed interval, they were then also referred for TAE if no other focus of haemorrhage was found. Patients without CE on CT scan but with retroperitoneal haemorrhage requiring TAE were investigated. Their demographic characteristics, associated injuries, fracture patterns, and changes in systolic blood pressure were described and analysed.ResultsIn total, 201 patients with pelvic fracture underwent CT scan examination; 47 (23.4%) had CE by CT scan, whereas the other 154 (76.6%) did not. Of the 154 patients who did not show CE by CT scan, 124 (80.5%) patients never underwent TAE; however, 30 (19.5%) of these patients did eventually undergo TAE. In comparing the patients who underwent TAE to those who did not undergo TAE among patients without CE on CT scan, the systolic blood pressure (SBP) on arrival (median: 100.0 mmHg vs 136.0 mmHg, p < 0.01) and the lowest SBP recorded in the ED (median: 68.0 mmHg vs 129.0 mmHg, p < 0.01) were significantly lower in the patients who underwent TAE. The ROC curve analysis revealed that the most appropriate cutoff value of decrement of SBP (SBP on arrival minus the lowest SBP in the ED) was 30 mmHg (AUC = 0.89).ConclusionIn the management of pelvic fracture patients, greater attention should be directed toward patients with relative hypotension. The higher likelihood of haemodynamic deterioration and the need for TAE for haemorrhage control should remain under consideration in such cases, despite the absence of CE by CT scan.     

Etiology,treatment and long-term results of isolated midfoot fractures

PurposeEtiology, treatment and long-term results of patients with isolated midfoot fractures were evaluated to create a basis for treatment optimization.MethodInjury cause, type and extent, treatment and long-term results (American Association of Foot and Ankle Surgery-Midfoot-Score (AOFAS-M), Hannover Scoring System (HSS), own Questionnaire (Q)) of isolated midfoot fractures (avulsions and Chopart/Lisfranc fracture dislocations excluded) were determined.ResultsFifty-eight patients with isolated midfoot fractures were included. Injury causes were vehicular trauma (n = 40), falls (n = 13), contusions (n = 3) and others (n = 2). The fractures were located as follows: cuboid, n = 28; naviculare, n = 23; cuneiforme I, n = 19; cuneiforme II, n = 11; and cuneiforme III, n = 9. 91.4% (n = 53) of cases were treated operatively, 15 times with closed and 38 times with open reduction. Five patients were treated conservatively.Forty-seven (81.0%) patients had follow-up after 9 (1–22) years. The mean follow-up scores of the entire group were AOFAS-M = 66.7, HSS = 62.8, and Q = 62.2. No significant score differences were determined with regard to age, sex, and time or type of treatment. The highest scores were observed in non-displaced fractures or after early anatomic reduction.ConclusionIsolated midfoot fractures without Chopart's or Lisfranc's joint fracture dislocation are uncommon. The long-term results are mostly characterized by minimal functional restrictions. In cases with poor results, the initial restoration of anatomic conditions have been unsatisfactory. Therefore, we recommend the early reduction and internal fixation in all displaced fractures. The reduction should be open if the closed reduction does not achieve anatomic conditions.     

Simultaneous head and facial computed tomography scans for assessing facial fractures in patients with traumatic brain injury

IntroductionPatients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) may have concomitant facial fractures. While most head injury patients receive head computed tomography (CT) scans for initial evaluation, the objective of our study was to investigate the value of simultaneous facial CT scans in assessing facial fractures in patients with TBI.MethodsFrom January 1, 2015 to December 31, 2015, 1649 consecutive patients presenting to our emergency department (ED) with a TBI who received CT scans using the protocol for head and facial bones were enrolled. The clinical data and CT images were reviewed via a standardized format.ResultsIn our cohort, 200 patients (12.1%) had at least one facial fracture shown on the CT scans. Patients with facial fractures were more likely to have initial loss of consciousness (ILOC; p < 0.001), a Glasgow coma scale of 8 or less (p < 0.001), moderate or severe degrees of head injury severity scale (p < 0.001), positive physical examination findings (p < 0.001), and positive CT cranial abnormalities (p < 0.001). A total of 166 (83.0%) patients with facial fractures required further facial CT scans instead of conventional head CT scans alone. Surgical intervention was mandatory in 73 (44.0%) of the 166 patients, who more frequently exhibited fractures of the lower third of the face (p < 0.001) and orbital fractures (p = 0.019).ConclusionsTBI patients with risk factors may have a higher probability of concomitant facial fractures. Fractures of the lower third of the face and orbit are easily overlooked in routine head CT scans but often require surgical intervention. Therefore, simultaneous head and facial CT scans are suggested in selected TBI patients.     

A meta-analysis of the efficacy of whole-body computed tomography imaging in the management of trauma and injury

BackgroundTraumatic injury is the third leading cause of death overall. To optimize the outcomes in these patients, hospitals employ whole-body computed tomography (WBCT) imaging due to the high diagnostic yield and potential to identify missed injuries. However, this delays time-critical interventions. Currently, there is an absence of any high-level evidence to support or refute either view. We present a meta-analysis of the available literature to elucidate the efficacy of WBCT in improving the outcomes of trauma, specifically the mortality rate.MethodsA systematic review of studies comparing WBCT and selective CT imaging in secondary survey was conducted, using MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Review and Scopus databases. The articles were evaluated for intervention using WBCT to reduce mortality rate, followed by subgroup analysis for other secondary measures, using Review Manager 5.3 software.ResultsEleven studies of 32,207 patients were included. There were lower overall (OR = 0.79; 95% CI 0.74,0.83, p < 0.05) and 24 h mortality rates (OR = 0.72, 95% CI 0.66,0.79, p < 0.05) in the WBCT cohort. Additionally, patients in the WBCT arm spent less time in the emergency room (MD = −14.81; 95% CI −17.02, −12.60, p < 0.00001) and needing ventilation (MD = −2.01; 95% CI −2.41, −1.62, p < 0.05) despite a higher baseline injury severity score.ConclusionThe analysis shows that WBCT is associated with better outcomes, including a lower overall and 24 h mortality rate, however the included studies are mostly observational and show considerable heterogeneity. Further work is required to make definitive clinical recommendations for a tailored algorithm in managing trauma patients.     

A United Kingdom perspective on the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and bone health: A cross sectional analysis of data from the Nottingham Fracture Liaison Service

ObjectivesThis study examines the relationship between high BMI, a diagnosis of osteoporosis and low trauma fractures.MethodThis is a cross sectional analysis using data collected from the Nottingham Fracture Liaison Service. A total of 4288 participants with a low trauma fracture from 1 January 2007 to 31 August 2012 were analysed. Logistic regression adjusted for potential confounders was used investigate osteoporosis and BMI. Fracture types were compared between those who were obese and non-obese.ResultsA total of 30% (1285) were obese. Prevalence of osteoporosis was 13.4%, 24.9%, and 40.4% in the obese, overweight and normal category respectively. Being obese has an odds ratio of 0.23 (95% CI 0.19–0.28, p < 0.01) of having osteoporosis compared to a normal BMI category. When variable BMI cut offs were used (BMI 25, 30 and 35) to calculate the positive predictive value of patients not having osteoporosis, it was 80.5%, 86.3% and 88.3%. Examining fracture types, obese patients when compared with the non-obese category, were more likely to fracture their ankle (OR 1.48, p < 0.01) and upper arm (OR 1.48, p < 0.001), but were less likely to fracture their wrist (OR 0.65, p < 0.001). In the elderly (> 70 years), obesity no longer influenced ankle or wrist fractures but there is an increased risk of upper arm fractures (OR 1.46, p = 0.005).ConclusionHigher BMD in obesity is not protective against fractures as there are a significant number of fractures in this group which may be due to body habitus, mechanism of injury and the effect of adiposity on bone. A low trauma osteoporotic fracture will need to be redefined in light of these findings.     

Long-term follow-up of trauma patients before and after implementation of a physician-staffed helicopter: A prospective observational study

IntroductionThe first Danish Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) was introduced May 1st 2010. The implementation was associated with lower 30-day mortality in severely injured patients. The aim of this study was to assess the long-term effects of HEMS on labour market affiliation and mortality of trauma patients.MethodsProspective, observational study with a maximum follow-up time of 4.5 years. Trauma patients from a 5-month period prior to the implementation of HEMS (pre-HEMS) were compared with patients from the first 12 months after implementation (post-HEMS). All analyses were adjusted for sex, age and Injury Severity Score.ResultsOf the total 1994 patients, 1790 were eligible for mortality analyses and 1172 (n = 297 pre-HEMS and n = 875 post-HEMS) for labour market analyses. Incidence rates of involuntary early retirement or death were 2.40 per 100 person-years pre-HEMS and 2.00 post-HEMS; corresponding to a hazard ratio (HR) of 0.72 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.44–1.17; p = 0.18). The HR of involuntary early retirement was 0.79 (95% CI 0.44–1.43; p = 0.43). The prevalence of reduced work ability after three years were 21.4% vs. 17.7%, odds ratio (OR) = 0.78 (CI 0.53–1.14; p = 0.20). The proportions of patients on social transfer payments at least half the time during the three-year period were 30.5% vs. 23.4%, OR = 0.68 (CI 0.49–0.96; p = 0.03). HR for mortality was 0.92 (CI 0.62–1.35; p = 0.66).ConclusionsThe implementation of HEMS was associated with a significant reduction in time on social transfer payments. No significant differences were found in involuntary early retirement rate, long-term mortality, or work ability.     

Risk factors for achilles tendon rupture: A matched case control study

PurposeThe purpose of this study was to elucidate whether body mass index (BMI), activity level, and other risk factors predispose patients to Achilles tendon ruptures.Materials and methodsA retrospective review of 279 subjects was performed (93 with Achilles tendon rupture, matched 1:2 with 186 age/sex matched controls with ankle sprains). Demographic variables and risk factors for rupture were tabulated and compared.ResultsThe rupture group mean BMI was 27.77 (95% CI, 26.94–28.49), and the control group mean BMI was 26.66 (95% CI, 26.06–27.27). These populations were found to be statistically equivalent (p = 0.047 and p < 0.001 by two one-sided t-test). A significantly higher proportion of those suffering ruptures reported regular athletic activity at baseline (74%) versus controls (59%, p = 0.013).ConclusionThere was no clinically significant difference found in BMI between patients with ruptures and controls. Furthermore, it was found that patients who sustained ruptures were also more likely to be active at baseline than their ankle sprain counterparts.     

Oncological outcomes of laparoscopic nephroureterectomy with pluck method for distal ureter resection

ObjectiveTo report the oncologic outcomes of upper tract urothelial carcinoma treated with laparoscopic nephroureterectomy and pluck method for distal ureter resection.Materials and methodsBetween May 2004 and November 2015, 118 patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma received laparoscopic radical nephroureterectomy with endoscopic bladder cuff excision at our institution. The medical records were reviewed retrospectively for clinical and pathological results. Cox regression analyses were performed on factors related to oncological outcomes.ResultsThe median follow-up was 26 months. Bladder recurrence was found in 27 patients (22.9%), extravesical retroperitoneal recurrence in four patients (3.4%), and metastases in 17 patients (14.4%). Multivariate analyses showed that male sex was associated with higher bladder recurrence [odds ratio (OR) = 2.2; 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.02–4.78; p = 0.045)], tumor size had significant correlation with locoregional recurrence (OR = 1.29; 95% CI, 1.07–3.43; p = 0.029), tumor stage was significantly correlated with subsequent metastasis (OR = 2.08; 95% CI, 1.21–3.56; p = 0.008) and overall survival (OR = 1.84; 95% CI, 1.06–3.22 ; p = 0.031), and tumor size correlated significantly with cancer-specific survival (OR = 2.57; 95% CI, 1.16–5.72; p = 0.021).ConclusionsTumor size and tumor stage were significantly associated with survival (cancer-specific and overall survival) in patients receiving nephroureterectomy with pluck method.     

Predictors of osteoarthritis following operative treatment of medial tibial plateau fractures

PurposeTo determine factors influencing the development of posttraumatic osteoarthritis (OA) following medial tibial plateau fractures and to evaluate concomitant injuries associated with these fractures.Materials and methodsA chart review of patients with operatively treated medial tibial plateau fractures admitted to our Level I trauma centre from 2002 to 2008 was performed. Of 63 patients, 41 participated in a clinical and radiographic examination. The mean age was 47 years (range 16–78) and the mean follow-up time was 7.6 (range 4.7–11.7) years. All patients had preoperative computed tomography (CT) scans and postoperative radiographs. At the end of follow-up, standing radiographs, mechanical axis, and CT scans were evaluated.ResultsOf the 41 patients, 24 had no or mild (Kellgren-Lawrence grade 0–2) OA and 17 had severe (grade 3–4) OA. Initial articular depression measured from preoperative CT scans was a significant predictor of OA (median 1.8 mm vs 4.5 mm, p = 0.009). Fracture line extension to the lateral plateau (p = 0.68) or fracture comminution (p = 0.21) had no effect on the development of posttraumatic OA, nor did articular depression at the end of follow-up (p = 0.68) measured from CT scans. Mechanical axis >4° of varus and ≥2 mm articular depression or step-off were associated with worse WOMAC pain scores, but did not affect other functional outcome scores. Six patients (10%) had permanent peroneal nerve dysfunction. Ten patients (16%) required LCL reconstruction and nine (14%) ACL avulsions were treated at the time of fracture stabilisation.ConclusionsThe amount of articular depression measured from preoperative CT scans seems to predict the development of posttraumatic OA, probably reflecting the severity of chondral injury at the time of fracture. Restoration of mechanical axis and articular congruence are important in achieving a good clinical outcome.