Severity and treatment of "occult" intra-abdominal injuries in blunt trauma victims.

BACKGROUND: to assess the severity and treatment of "occult" intra-abdominal injuries in blunt trauma victims. METHOD: Retrospective analysis of charts and trauma register data of adult blunt trauma victims, admitted without abdominal pain or alterations in the abdominal physical examination, but were subsequently diagnosed with intra-abdominal injuries, in a period of 2 years. The severity was stratified according to RTS, AIS, OIS and ISS. The specific treatment for abdominal injuries and the complications related to them were assessed. RESULTS: Intra-abdominal injuries were diagnosed in 220 (3.8%) out of the 5785 blunt trauma victims and 76 (34.5%) met the inclusion criteria. The RTS and ISS median (lower quartile, upper quartile) were 7.84 (6.05, 7.84) and 25 (16, 34). Sixty seven percent had a GCS≥13 on admission. Injuries were identified in the spleen (34), liver (33), kidneys (9), intestines (4), diaphragm (3), bladder (3) and iliac vessels (1). Abdominal injuries scored AIS≥3 in 67% of patients. Twenty-one patients (28%) underwent laparotomy, 5 of which were nontherapeutic. The surgical procedures performed were splenectomy (8), suturing of the diaphragm (3), intestines (3), bladder (2), kidneys (1), enterectomy/anastomosis (1), ligation of the common iliac vein (1), and revascularization of the common iliac artery (1). Angiography and embolization of liver and/or spleen injuries were performed in 3 cases. Three patients developed abdominal complications, all of which were operatively treated. There were no deaths directly related to the abdominal injuries. CONCLUSION: Severe "occult" intra-abdominal injuries, requiring specific treatment, may be present in adult blunt trauma patients.

Predictors of "occult" intra-abdominal injuries in blunt trauma patients.

OBJECTIVE: to assess predictors of intra-abdominal injuries in blunt trauma patients admitted without abdominal pain or abnormalities on the abdomen physical examination. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of trauma registry data, including adult blunt trauma patients admitted from 2008 to 2010 who sustained no abdominal pain or abnormalities on physical examination of the abdomen at admission and were submitted to computed tomography of the abdomen and/or exploratory laparotomy. Patients were assigned into: Group 1 (with intra-abdominal injuries) or Group 2 (without intra-abdominal injuries). Variables were compared between groups to identify those significantly associated with the presence of intra-abdominal injuries, adopting p<0.05 as significant. Subsequently, the variables with p<0.20 on bivariate analysis were selected to create a logistic regression model using the forward stepwise method. RESULTS: A total of 268 cases met the inclusion criteria. Patients in Group I were characterized as having significantly (p<0.05) lower mean AIS score for the head segment (1.0 ± 1.4 vs. 1.8 ± 1.9), as well as higher mean AIS thorax score (1.6 ± 1.7 vs. 0.9 ± 1.5) and ISS (25.7 ± 14.5 vs. 17,1 ± 13,1). The rate of abdominal injuries was significantly higher in run-over pedestrians (37.3%) and in motorcyclists (36.0%) (p<0.001). The resultant logistic regression model provided 73.5% accuracy for identifying abdominal injuries. The variables included were: motorcyclist accident as trauma mechanism (p<0.001 - OR 5.51; 95%CI 2.40-12.64), presence of rib fractures (p<0.003 - OR 3.00; 95%CI 1.47-6.14), run-over pedestrian as trauma mechanism (p=0.008 - OR 2.85; 95%CI 1.13-6.22) and abnormal neurological physical exam at admission (p=0.015 - OR 0.44; 95%CI 0.22-0.85). CONCLUSION: Intra-abdominal injuries were predominantly associated with trauma mechanism and presence of chest injuries.

Implementation of the trauma registry as a tool for quality improvement in trauma care in a brazilian hospital: the first 12 months.

OBJECTIVE: to analyze the implementation of a trauma registry in a university teaching hospital delivering care under the unified health system (SUS), and its ability to identify points for improvement in the quality of care provided. METHODS: the data collection group comprised students from medicine and nursing courses who were holders of FAPESP scholarships (technical training 1) or otherwise, overseen by the coordinators of the project. The itreg (ECO Sistemas-RJ/SBAIT) software was used as the database tool. Several quality "filters" were proposed to select those cases for review in the quality control process. RESULTS: data for 1344 trauma patients were input to the itreg database between March and November 2014. Around 87.0% of cases were blunt trauma patients, 59.6% had RTS>7.0 and 67% ISS<9. Full records were available for 292 cases, which were selected for review in the quality program. The auditing filters most frequently registered were laparotomy four hours after admission and drainage of acute subdural hematomas four hours after admission. Several points for improvement were flagged, such as control of overtriage of patients, the need to reduce the number of negative imaging exams, the development of protocols for achieving central venous access, and management of major TBI. CONCLUSION: the trauma registry provides a clear picture of the points to be improved in trauma patient care, however, there are specific peculiarities for implementing this tool in the Brazilian milieu.

Predictors of "occult" intra-abdominal injuries in blunt trauma patients / Indicadores de lesões intra-abdominais "ocultas" em pacientes vítimas de trauma fechado admitidas sem dor abdominal ou alterações no exame físico do abdome

Objective: to assess predictors of intra-abdominal injuries in blunt trauma patients admitted without abdominal pain or abnormalities on the abdomen physical examination. Methods: We conducted a retrospective analysis of trauma registry data, including adult blunt trauma patients admitted from 2008 to 2010 who sustained no abdominal pain or abnormalities on physical examination of the abdomen at admission and were submitted to computed tomography of the abdomen and/or exploratory laparotomy. Patients were assigned into: Group 1 (with intra-abdominal injuries) or Group 2 (without intra-abdominal injuries). Variables were compared between groups to identify those significantly associated with the presence of intra-abdominal injuries, adopting p<0.05 as significant. Subsequently, the variables with p<0.20 on bivariate analysis were selected to create a logistic regression model using the forward stepwise method. Results: A total of 268 cases met the inclusion criteria. Patients in Group I were characterized as having significantly (p<0.05) lower mean AIS score for the head segment (1.0±1.4 vs. 1.8±1.9), as well as higher mean AIS thorax score (1.6±1.7 vs. 0.9±1.5) and ISS (25.7±14.5 vs. 17,1±13,1). The rate of abdominal injuries was significantly higher in run-over pedestrians (37.3%) and in motorcyclists (36.0%) (p<0.001). The resultant logistic regression model provided 73.5% accuracy for identifying abdominal injuries. The variables included were: motorcyclist accident as trauma mechanism (p<0.001 - OR 5.51; 95%CI 2.40-12.64), presence of rib fractures (p<0.003 - OR 3.00; 95%CI 1.47-6.14), run-over pedestrian as trauma mechanism (p=0.008 - OR 2.85; 95%CI 1.13-6.22) and abnormal neurological physical exam at admission (p=0.015 - OR 0.44; 95%CI 0.22-0.85). Conclusion Intra-abdominal injuries were predominantly associated with trauma mechanism and presence of chest injuries.

Objetivo: avaliar os indicadores de lesões intra-abdominais em vítimas de trauma fechado admitidas sem dor abdominal ou alterações no exame físico do abdome. Método: estudo retrospectivo das vítimas de trauma fechado com idade superior a 13 anos, admitidas no período de 2008-2010. Selecionamos para estudo todos que foram submetidos à tomografia computadorizada de abdome e/ou laparotomia exploradora e que, à admissão, não apresentavam dor abdominal ou alterações ao exame físico do abdome. Os doentes foram separados em: Grupo 1 (com lesões intra-abdominais) e Grupo 2 (sem lesões intra-abdominais). As variáveis foram comparadas entre os grupos, considerando p<0,05 como significativo. Em um segundo passo, selecionamos as variáveis com p<0,20 na análise bivariada para criar modelo de regressão logística pelo método forward stepwise. Resultados: foram incluídos 268 casos. Os doentes com lesão abdominal caracterizaram-se por apresentar, significativamente (p<0,05), menor média de AIS em segmento cefálico (1,0 ± 1,4 vs. 1,8 ± 1,9), bem como, maior média de AIS em tórax (1,6 ± 1,7 vs. 0,9 ± 1,5) e de ISS (25,7 ± 14,5 vs. 17,1 ± 13,1). A frequência de lesões abdominais foi significativamente maior nas vítimas de atropelamentos (37,3%) e motociclistas (36%) (p<0,001). A regressão logística construiu um modelo utilizando as seguintes variáveis: motociclista como mecanismo de trauma (p<0,001- OR=5,51; IC95% 2,40-12,64), presença de fraturas de costelas (p<0,003 - OR=3,00; IC95% 1,47-6,14), atropelamento como mecanismo de trauma (p=0,008 - OR=2,85; IC95% 1,13-6,22) e exame físico neurológico anormal a admissão (p=0,015 - OR=0,44; IC95% 0,22-0,85). Conclusão: as lesões intra-abdominais foram relacionadas principalmente com o mecanismo de trauma e a presença de lesões torácicas.

Comparative analysis between identified injuries of victims of fall from height and other mechanisms of closed trauma.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the lesions diagnosed in victims of falls, comparing them with those diagnosed in other mechanisms of blunt trauma. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of trauma protocol charts (prospectively collected) from 2008 to 2010, including victims of trauma over 13 years of age admitted to the emergency room. The severity of injuries was stratified by the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and Injury Severity Score (ISS). Variables were compared between the group of victims of falls from height (Group 1) and the other victims of blunt trauma (Group 2). We used the Student t, chi-square and Fisher tests for comparison between groups, considering the value of p <0.05 as significant. RESULTS: The series comprised 4,532 cases of blunt trauma, of which 555 (12.2%) were victims of falls from height. Severe lesions (AISe"3) were observed in the extremities (17.5%), in the cephalic segment (8.4%), chest (5.5%) and the abdomen (2.9%). Victims of Group 1 had significantly higher mean age, AIS in extremities / pelvis, AIS in the thoracic segment and ISS (p <0.05). The group 1 had significantly (p <0.05) higher incidence of tracheal intubation on admission, pneumothorax, hemothorax, rib fractures, chest drainage, spinal trauma, pelvic fractures, complex pelvic fractures and fractures to the upper limbs. CONCLUSION: Victims of fall from height had greater anatomic injury severity, greater frequency and severity of lesions in the thoracic segment and extremities.

Comparative analysis between identified injuries of victims of fall from height and other mechanisms of closed trauma / Análise comparativa entre as lesões identificadas em vítimas de queda de altura e de outros mecanismos de trauma fechado

OBJECTIVE: To analyze the lesions diagnosed in victims of falls, comparing them with those diagnosed in other mechanisms of blunt trauma. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of trauma protocol charts (prospectively collected) from 2008 to 2010, including victims of trauma over 13 years of age admitted to the emergency room. The severity of injuries was stratified by the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and Injury Severity Score (ISS). Variables were compared between the group of victims of falls from height (Group 1) and the other victims of blunt trauma (Group 2). We used the Student t, chi-square and Fisher tests for comparison between groups, considering the value of p <0.05 as significant. RESULTS: The series comprised 4,532 cases of blunt trauma, of which 555 (12.2%) were victims of falls from height. Severe lesions (AISe"3) were observed in the extremities (17.5%), in the cephalic segment (8.4%), chest (5.5%) and the abdomen (2.9%). Victims of Group 1 had significantly higher mean age, AIS in extremities / pelvis, AIS in the thoracic segment and ISS (p <0.05). The group 1 had significantly (p <0.05) higher incidence of tracheal intubation on admission, pneumothorax, hemothorax, rib fractures, chest drainage, spinal trauma, pelvic fractures, complex pelvic fractures and fractures to the upper limbs. CONCLUSION: Victims of fall from height had greater anatomic injury severity, greater frequency and severity of lesions in the thoracic segment and extremities. .

OBJETIVO: analisar as lesões diagnosticadas nas vítimas de queda de altura, comparando-as com as diagnosticadas em outros mecanismos de trauma fechado. MÉTODOS: estudo retrospectivo dos protocolos de trauma (coletados prospectivamente) de 2008 a 2010, incluindo as vítimas de trauma fechado com idade superior a 13 anos, admitidas na sala de emergência. A gravidade das lesões foi estratificada pelo Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) e Injury Severity Score (ISS). As variáveis foram comparadas entre o grupo de vítimas de quedas de altura (Grupo 1) e as demais vítimas de trauma fechado (Grupo 2). Empregamos os testes t de Student, qui-quadrado e Fisher para a comparação entre os grupos, considerando o valor de p<0,05 como significativo. RESULTADOS: foram analisados 4532 casos de trauma fechado, sendo que 555 (12,2%) foram vítimas de quedas de altura. As lesões graves (AISe"3) foram observadas em extremidades (17,5%), em segmento cefálico (8,4%), torácico (5,5%) e em abdome (2,9%). As vítimas do grupo 1 apresentaram, significativamente (p<0,05), maior média etária, de AIS em extremidades/pelve, de AIS em segmento torácico e de ISS. O grupo 1 também apresentou, significativamente (p<0,05), maior frequência de intubação orotraqueal na admissão, pneumotórax, hemotórax, fraturas de costelas, drenagem de tórax, trauma raquimedular, fraturas de pelve, fraturas complexas de pelve e de fraturas em membros superiores. CONCLUSÃO: As vítimas de queda de altura apresentaram maior gravidade anatômica do trauma, maior frequência e gravidade de lesões em segmento torácico e em extremidades. .

Predictors of abdominal injuries in blunt trauma.

OBJECTIVE: To identify predictors of abdominal injuries in victims of blunt trauma. METHOD: retrospective analysis of trauma protocols (collected prospectively) of adult victims of blunt trauma in a period of 15 months. Variables were compared between patients with abdominal injuries (AIS>0) detected by computed tomography or/and laparotomy (group I) and others (AIS=0, group II). Student's t, Fisher and qui-square tests were used for statistical analysis, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: A total of 3783 cases were included, with a mean age of 39.1 ± 17.7 years (14-99), 76.1% being male. Abdominal injuries were detected in 130 patients (3.4%). Patients sustaining abdominal injuries had significantly lower mean age (35.4 + 15.4 vs. 39.2 + 17.7), lower mean systolic blood pressure on admission (114.7 + 32.4 mmHg vs. 129.1 + 21.7 mmHg), lower mean Glasgow coma scale (12.9 + 3.9 vs. 14.3 + 2.0), as well as higher head AIS (0.95 + 1.5 vs. 0.67 + 1.1), higher thorax AIS (1.10 + 1.5 vs. 0.11 + 0.6) and higher extremities AIS (1.70 ± 1.8 vs. 1.03 ± 1.2). Patients sustaining abdominal injuries also presented higher frequency of severe injuries (AIS>3) in head (18.5% vs. 7.9%), thorax (29.2% vs. 2.4%) and extremities (40.0% vs. 13.7%). The highest odds ratios for the diagnosis of abdominal injuries were associated flail chest (21.8) and pelvic fractures (21.0). CONCLUSION: Abdominal injuries were more frequently observed in patients with hemodynamic instability, changes in Glasgow coma scale and severe lesions to the head, chest and extremities.

Fatores preditivos de lesões abdominais em vítimas de trauma fechado / Predictors of abdominal injuries in blunt trauma

OBJETIVO: Identificar fatores preditivos de lesões abdominais em vítimas de trauma fechado. MÉTODOS: Análise retrospectiva dos dados das vítimas de trauma fechado com idade superior a 13 anos, em um período de 15 meses. Comparamos as variáveis entre os doentes com lesões abdominais diagnosticadas por tomografia computadorizada e/ou laparotomia - grupo I (Abbreviated Injury Scale abdome>0, grupo I) e os demais - grupo II (Abbreviated Injury Scale abdome=0,). RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos 3783 casos, com média etária de 39,1 +17,7 anos (14 a 99 anos), sendo 76,1% do sexo masculino. Foram identificadas lesões abdominais em 130 doentes (3,4%). Os traumatizados com lesões abdominais apresentaram, significativamente, menor média etária (35,4 + 15,4 anos vs. 39,2 + 17,7 anos), menor média da pressão arterial sistólica à admissão (114,7 + 32,4mmHg vs. 129,1 + 21,7mmHg), menor média na escala de coma de Glasgow à admissão (12,9 + 3,9 vs. 14,3 + 2,0), maior média de AIS em segmento cefálico (0,95 + 1,5 vs. 0,67 + 1,1), maior média de AIS em segmento torácico (1,10 + 1,5 vs. 0,11 + 0,6) e maior média de AIS em extremidades (1,70 ± 1,8 vs. 1,03 ± 1,2). Os maiores Odds ratio foram presença de tórax flácido (21,8) e fraturas de pelve (21,0). CONCLUSÃO: As lesões abdominais foram mais frequentemente observadas nos doentes com instabilidade hemodinâmica, alteração na escala de coma de Glasgow, lesões graves em crânio, tórax ou extremidades.

OBJECTIVE: To identify predictors of abdominal injuries in victims of blunt trauma. METHOD: retrospective analysis of trauma protocols (collected prospectively) of adult victims of blunt trauma in a period of 15 months. Variables were compared between patients with abdominal injuries (AIS>0) detected by computed tomography or/and laparotomy (group I) and others (AIS=0, group II). Student's t, Fisher and qui-square tests were used for statistical analysis, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: A total of 3783 cases were included, with a mean age of 39.1 ± 17.7 years (14-99), 76.1% being male. Abdominal injuries were detected in 130 patients (3.4%). Patients sustaining abdominal injuries had significantly lower mean age (35.4 + 15.4 vs. 39.2 + 17.7), lower mean systolic blood pressure on admission (114.7 + 32.4 mmHg vs. 129.1 + 21.7 mmHg), lower mean Glasgow coma scale (12.9 + 3.9 vs. 14.3 + 2.0), as well as higher head AIS (0.95 + 1.5 vs. 0.67 + 1.1), higher thorax AIS (1.10 + 1.5 vs. 0.11 + 0.6) and higher extremities AIS (1.70 ± 1.8 vs. 1.03 ± 1.2). Patients sustaining abdominal injuries also presented higher frequency of severe injuries (AIS>3) in head (18.5% vs. 7.9%), thorax (29.2% vs. 2.4%) and extremities (40.0% vs. 13.7%). The highest odds ratios for the diagnosis of abdominal injuries were associated flail chest (21.8) and pelvic fractures (21.0). CONCLUSION: Abdominal injuries were more frequently observed in patients with hemodynamic instability, changes in Glasgow coma scale and severe lesions to the head, chest and extremities.

[Comparative analysis of injuries observed in motorcycle riders involved in traffic accidents and victims of other blunt trauma mechanisms]. / Análise comparativa entre as lesões encontradas em motociclistas envolvidos em acidentes de trânsito e vítimas de outros mecanismos de trauma fechado.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a comparative analysis of the lesions found among motorcycle riders involved in traffic accidents and victims of other mechanisms of blunt trauma. METHODS: Analysis of data prospectively collected on protocols for trauma patients older than 13 years, admitted from 06/10/2008 to 09/01/2009, victims of blunt trauma. Data collected included trauma mechanism, vital signs at admission, laboratory tests, injuries, and treatment.Stratification of trauma and lesion severity was performed by calculating the trauma index: Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS), Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), Injury Severity Score (ISS) and TRISS. We compared the variables between motorcycle riders (group A) and the others (group B). Severe injuries were considered when AIS > 3. For statistical analysis, we used Student's t, Mann Whitney, chi-square and Fisher's test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The study included 3,783 blunt trauma victims, aged 14 to 99 years, of which 76.0% were males. The most frequent trauma mechanisms were accidents involving motorcycle riders (24.4%) and pedestrians (22.6%). When comparing the variables between groups A and B, we observed that motorcycle riders were significantly (p < 0.05) younger (28.9 ± 8.5 years vs. 42.4 ± 18.5 years) and had lower mean AIS in the head segment (0.3 ± 0.9 vs. 0.8 ± 1.1), as well as higher mean GCS at admission (14.5 ± 1.9 vs. 14.2 ± 2.2), AIS in the extremities (1.5 ± 1.2 vs. 0.9 ± 1.2), RTS (7.8 ± 0.5 vs. 7.7 ± 0.6) and TRISS (0.98 ± 0.1 vs. 0.97 ± 0.1). Men were significantly more frequent in group A (87.9% vs. 72.6%). When comparing injuries between groups, we observed that the motorcycle riders had significantly (p < 0.05) lower frequency of extradural hematomas (0.6% vs. 2.1%), subdural hematomas (0.9% vs. 2.1%), subarachnoid hemorrhage (0.9% vs. 2.2%), brain injury (1.2 vs. 3.6%), and severe head injuries (4.8% vs. 9.4% ), as well as higher frequency of diffuse axonal injury (1.6% vs. 0.7%), upper- (7.9% vs. 4.4%) and lower-limb fractures (7.7% vs. 5, 2%), and severe extremity lesions (20.6% vs. 12.6%). CONCLUSION: Compared to victims of other trauma mechanisms, motorcycle riders had a lower frequency and severity of head injuries, as well as increased frequency and severity of lesions in the extremities.

Análise comparativa entre as lesões encontradas em motociclistas envolvidos em acidentes de trânsito e vítimas de outros mecanismos de trauma fechado / Comparative analysis of injuries observed in motorcycle riders involved in traffic accidents and victims of other blunt trauma mechanisms

OBJETIVO: Realizar uma análise comparativa entre as lesões encontradas em motociclistas envolvidos em acidentes de trânsito e vítimas de outros mecanismos de trauma fechado. MÉTODOS: Análise dos protocolos (colhidos prospectivamente) dos traumatizados com idade superior a 13 anos, admitidos de 10/06/2008 a 01/09/2009, vítimas de trauma fechado. Foram coletadas informações sobre mecanismo de trauma, dados vitais à admissão, exames complementares, lesões e tratamento. A estratificação da gravidade do trauma e das lesões foi realizada pelo cálculo dos índices de trauma: RTS, escala de coma de Glasgow (ECG), AIS, ISS e TRISS. Comparamos as variáveis entre os motociclistas (grupo A) e os demais (grupo B). Consideramos graves as lesões com AIS > 3. Para a análise estatística, utilizamos os testes t de Student, Mann Whitney, qui-quadrado e Fisher, considerando p < 0,05 significativo. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 3.783 vítimas de trauma fechado, com idade de 14 a 99 anos, sendo 76,0 por cento do sexo masculino. Os mecanismos de trauma mais frequentes foram os acidentes com motociclistas (24,4 por cento) e atropelamentos (22,6 por cento). Na comparação das variáveis entre os grupos A e B, observamos que os motociclistas apresentaram, significativamente, (p < 0,05), menor média etária (28,9 ± 8,5 anosvs. 42,4 ± 18,5 anos) e menor média de AIS em segmento cefálico (0,3 ± 0,9 vs. 0,8 ± 1,1), como também, maior média da ECG à admissão (14,5 ± 1,9vs. 14,2 ± 2,2), de AIS em extremidades (1,5 ± 1,2 vs. 0,9 ± 1,2), de RTS (7,8 ± 0,5 vs. 7,7 ± 0,6) e de TRISS (0,98 ± 0,1 vs. 0,97 ± 0,1). O gênero masculino foi significativamente mais frequente no grupo A (87,9 por centovs. 72,6 por cento). Na comparação das lesões entre os grupos, notamos que os motociclistas apresentaram, significativamente, (p < 0,05), menor frequência de hematomas extradurais (0,6 por cento vs. 2,1 por cento), hematomas subdurais (0,9 por cento vs. 2,1 por cento), hemorragia subaracnóidea (0,9 por cento vs. 2,2 por cento), contusão encefálica (1,2 por cento vs. 3,6 por cento) e lesões graves em crânio (4,8 por centovs. 9,4 por cento), bem como maior frequência de lesão axonal difusa (1,6 por centovs. 0,7 por cento), fraturas de membros superiores (7,9 por centovs. 4,4 por cento), inferiores (7,7 por centovs. 5,2 por cento), e lesões graves em extremidades (20,6 por centovs. 12,6 por cento). CONCLUSÃO: Em comparação às vítimas dos demais mecanismos de trauma, os motociclistas apresentaram menor frequência e gravidade das lesões em segmento cefálico, bem como maior frequência e gravidade das lesões em extremidades.

OBJECTIVE: To conduct a comparative analysis of the lesions found among motorcycle riders involved in traffic accidents and victims of other mechanisms of blunt trauma. METHODS: Analysis of data prospectively collected on protocols for trauma patients older than 13 years, admitted from 06/10/2008 to 09/01/2009, victims of blunt trauma. Data collected included trauma mechanism, vital signs at admission, laboratory tests, injuries, and treatment.Stratification of trauma and lesion severity was performed by calculating the trauma index: Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS), Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), Injury Severity Score (ISS) and TRISS. We compared the variables between motorcycle riders (group A) and the others (group B). Severe injuries were considered when AIS > 3. For statistical analysis, we used Student's t, Mann Whitney, chi-square and Fisher's test, with p < 0.05 considered statistically significant. RESULTS: The study included 3,783 blunt trauma victims, aged 14 to 99 years, of which 76.0 percent were males. The most frequent trauma mechanisms were accidents involving motorcycle riders (24.4 percent) and pedestrians (22.6 percent). When comparing the variables between groups A and B, we observed that motorcycle riders were significantly (p < 0.05) younger (28.9 ± 8.5 years vs. 42.4 ± 18.5 years) and had lower mean AIS in the head segment (0.3 ± 0.9 vs. 0.8 ± 1.1), as well as higher mean GCS at admission (14.5 ± 1.9 vs. 14.2 ± 2.2), AIS in the extremities (1.5 ± 1.2 vs. 0.9 ± 1.2), RTS (7.8 ± 0.5 vs. 7.7 ± 0.6) and TRISS (0.98 ± 0.1 vs. 0.97 ± 0.1). Men were significantly more frequent in group A (87.9 percent vs. 72.6 percent). When comparing injuries between groups, we observed that the motorcycle riders had significantly (p < 0.05) lower frequency of extradural hematomas (0.6 percent vs. 2.1 percent), subdural hematomas (0.9 percent vs. 2.1 percent), subarachnoid hemorrhage (0.9 percent vs. 2.2 percent), brain injury (1.2 vs. 3.6 percent), and severe head injuries (4.8 percent vs. 9.4 percent ), as well as higher frequency of diffuse axonal injury (1.6 percent vs. 0.7 percent), upper- (7.9 percent vs. 4.4 percent) and lower-limb fractures (7.7 percent vs. 5, 2 percent), and severe extremity lesions (20.6 percent vs. 12.6 percent). CONCLUSION: Compared to victims of other trauma mechanisms, motorcycle riders had a lower frequency and severity of head injuries, as well as increased frequency and severity of lesions in the extremities.

Pelvic fractures as a marker of injury severity in trauma patients.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether the presence of a pelvic fracture is associated with greater severity and worse prognosis in victims of blunt trauma. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of protocols and records of victims of blunt trauma admitted from June 2008 to March 2009 was separated into two groups: those with pelvic fracture (Group I) and those without it (Group II). Data were collected from pre-hospital admission rates of trauma, laboratory tests, diagnosed lesions, treatment and outcome. We used the Student t test, Fisher's exact test and chi-square test for statistical analysis, considering p <0.05 as significant. RESULTS: During the study period, 2019 individuals had multiple trauma protocols completed, of which 43 (2.1%) had pelvic fractures. Patients in Group I had significantly lower average blood pressure, higher mean heart rate, lower mean Glasgow Coma Scale, the highest average AIS in the segments head, chest, abdomen and extremities, as well as higher mean ISS and lower mean TRISS and RTS on admission. Group I more frequently presented with traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (7% vs. 1.6%), spinal cord injury (9% vs. 1%), thoracic and abdominal injuries, as well as need for laparotomy (21% vs. 1 %), chest drainage (32% vs. 2%) and damage control (9% vs. 0%). Complications were more frequent in group I: ARDS (9% vs. 0%), persistent shock (30% vs. 1%), coagulopathy (23% vs. 1%), acute renal failure (21% vs. 0%) and death (28% vs. 2%). CONCLUSION: The presence of a pelvic fracture is a marker of greater severity and worse prognosis in victims of blunt trauma.

Fratura de pelve: um marcador de gravidade em trauma / Pelvic fractures as a marker of injury severity in trauma patients

OBJETIVO: avaliar se a presença de fratura de pelve é associada à maior gravidade e pior prognóstico em vítimas de trauma fechado. MÉTODOS: análise retrospectiva dos protocolos e prontuários das vítimas de trauma fechado admitidas de 10/06/2008 a 10/03/2009, separadas em dois grupos: com fratura de pelve (Grupo I) e os demais (Grupo II). Foram avaliados dados do pré-hospitalar e admissão, índices de trauma, exames complementares, lesões diagnosticadas, tratamento e evolução. Utilizamos os testes t de Student, Fisher e qui-quadrado na análise estatística, considerando p<0,05 como significativo. RESULTADOS: No período de estudo, 2019 politraumatizados tiveram protocolos preenchidos, sendo que 43 (2,1 por cento) apresentaram fratura de pelve. Os doentes do grupo I apresentaram, significativamente, menor média de pressão arterial sistêmica à admissão, maior média de frequência cardíaca à admissão, menor média da escala de coma de Glasgow, maior média nos AIS em segmentos cefálico, torácico, abdominal e extremidades, bem como, maior média do ISS e menor média de RTS e TRISS. O grupo I apresentou, com maior frequência, hemorragia subaracnoidea traumática (7 por cento vs. 1,6 por cento), trauma raquimedular (9 por cento vs. 1 por cento), lesões torácicas e abdominais, bem como necessidade de laparotomias (21 por cento vs. 1 por cento), drenagem de tórax (32 por cento vs. 2 por cento) e controle de danos (9 por cento vs. 0 por cento). As complicações foram mais frequentes no grupo I: SARA (9 por cento vs. 0 por cento), choque persistente (30 por cento vs. 1 por cento), coagulopatia (23 por cento vs. 1 por cento), insuficiência renal aguda (21 por cento vs. 0 por cento) e óbito (28 por cento vs. 2 por cento). CONCLUSÃO: a presença de fratura de pelve é um marcador de maior gravidade e pior prognóstico em vítimas de trauma fechado.

OBJECTIVE: To assess whether the presence of a pelvic fracture is associated with greater severity and worse prognosis in victims of blunt trauma. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of protocols and records of victims of blunt trauma admitted from June 2008 to March 2009 was separated into two groups: those with pelvic fracture (Group I) and those without it (Group II). Data were collected from pre-hospital admission rates of trauma, laboratory tests, diagnosed lesions, treatment and outcome. We used the Student t test, Fisher's exact test and chi-square test for statistical analysis, considering p <0.05 as significant. RESULTS: During the study period, 2019 individuals had multiple trauma protocols completed, of which 43 (2.1 percent) had pelvic fractures. Patients in Group I had significantly lower average blood pressure, higher mean heart rate, lower mean Glasgow Coma Scale, the highest average AIS in the segments head, chest, abdomen and extremities, as well as higher mean ISS and lower mean TRISS and RTS on admission. Group I more frequently presented with traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhage (7 percent vs. 1.6 percent), spinal cord injury (9 percent vs. 1 percent), thoracic and abdominal injuries, as well as need for laparotomy (21 percent vs. 1 percent), chest drainage (32 percent vs. 2 percent) and damage control (9 percent vs. 0 percent). Complications were more frequent in group I: ARDS (9 percent vs. 0 percent), persistent shock (30 percent vs. 1 percent), coagulopathy (23 percent vs. 1 percent), acute renal failure (21 percent vs. 0 percent) and death (28 percent vs. 2 percent). CONCLUSION: The presence of a pelvic fracture is a marker of greater severity and worse prognosis in victims of blunt trauma.

Comparative analysis of the characteristics of traumas suffered by elderly and younger patients.

OBJECTIVE: To assess the characteristics of traumas suffered by the elderly by comparison with a group of younger trauma victims. METHODS: Trauma protocols from June 10, 2008 to March 9, 2009 were evaluated including all trauma patients above 13 years of age admitted to the emergency room. Data were collected on trauma mechanism, preexisting diseases, vital signs on admission, injuries diagnosed, trauma index scores, tests and treatment. Patients over 60 years were assigned to the elderly group (Group I). Data were compared between this group and a group of younger patients (Group II), using Student's t test, the chi square test and Fisher's exact test, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Two thousand and seventy-five trauma victims were recruited (77.1% male), 211 (10.2%) in group I. The most frequent trauma mechanisms in the elderly were falls (from patients' own height) (41%) and being hit by automobiles (28%). Preexisting diseases were more frequent in Group I and included systemic arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus. The most frequent injuries to Group I patients were to the extremities, affecting 106 patients (50.2%). Fractures were diagnosed in 18% of the elderly patients. In comparison with younger trauma patients, elderly patients had significantly higher head scores on the AIS (0.75 + 1.17 vs. 0.54 + 1.04) (p=0.014) and lower thoracic (0.15 + 0.62 vs. 0.26 + 0.86) (p=0.018) and abdominal scores (0.05 + 0.43 vs. 0.21 + 0.82) (p<0.001). Severe injuries (AIS > 3) to the head were more frequently observed in Group I (11.4% vs. 7%) (p=0,023). Certain types of injury were more frequent in Group I: subdural hematomas (2.8% vs. 0.8%) (p=0.008), subarachnoid hemorrhages (3.8% vs. 1.3%) (p=0.005) and cerebral contusions (5.2% vs. 2.3%) (p=0.015). CONCLUSION: In comparison to younger trauma victims, the elderly group was characterized by a higher frequency of falls from their own height, concomitant diseases and severe intracranial injuries, including subdural hematoma, cerebral contusions and subarachnoid hemorrhages.

[Severe injuries from falls on the same level]. / Lesões graves em vítimas de queda da própria altura.

OBJECTIVE: Assess characteristics of trauma patients who sustained falls from their own height, more specifically focusing on presence of severe injuries, diagnosis and treatment. METHODS: Retrospective study including all adult blunt trauma patients admitted in the emergency room in a period of 9 months. Lesions with AIS (Abbreviated Injury Scale)>3 were considered "severe". Variables were compared between victims of fall from their own height (group I) and other blunt trauma mechanisms (group II). Student's t, chi square and Fisher exact tests were used for statistical analysis, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Of the 1993 trauma patients included, 305 (15%) were victims of falls from their own height. In group I, mean age was 52.2 ± 20.8 years and 64.8% were male. Injuries in the head segment were the most frequently observed (62.2%), followed by injuries in the extremities (22.3%), thorax (1.3%) and abdomen (0.7%). Severe injuries (AIS>3) were more frequent in the head (8.9%), followed by extremities (4.9%). In group I, craniotomies were needed in 2.3%. By comparing groups, we observed that victims of falls from their own height had significantly higher mean age, higher mean systolic blood pressure, and higher head AIS mean, as well as lower ISS mean, thorax AIS mean, abdomen AIS mean and extremities AIS mean. CONCLUSION: Importance of the trauma mechanism in victims of falls from own height should be emphasized due to a considerable possibility of occult severe injuries, mainly in the cephalic segment.

Análise comparativa das características do trauma entre pacientes idosos e não idosos / Comparative analysis of trauma characteristics between elderly and younger trauma patients

OBJETIVO: Definir as características do trauma em idosos pela comparação de variáveis entre este grupo e o de traumatizados não idosos. MÉTODOS: Realizamos uma análise dos protocolos coletados no período de 10 de junho de 2008 a 9 de março de 2009, incluindo todos os traumatizados atendidos com idade superior a 13 anos. Foram coletados dados de identificação, mecanismo de trauma, informações do pré-hospitalar, dados vitais à admissão, índices de trauma, exames complementares, doenças associadas, lesões diagnosticadas e tratamento. Os traumatizados com idade superior a 60 anos foram considerados idosos. Para a identificação das características do trauma em idosos, comparamos as variáveis entre este grupo (Grupo I) e os traumatizados não idosos (Grupo II). Foram empregados os testes T de Student, Qui quadrado e Fisher para a comparação entre os grupos, considerando o valor de p<0,05 como significativo. RESULTADOS: Foram incluídos no estudo 2075 vítimas de trauma, sendo 77,1 por cento do sexo masculino. Duzentos e onze doentes (10,2 por cento) tinham idade superior a 60 anos (Grupo I). Os idosos foram mais frequentemente vítimas de queda da própria altura (41 por cento) e atropelamento (28,6 por cento), enquanto, no Grupo II, predominaram os acidentes com motocicletas (28 por cento) (p<0,001). Os idosos apresentaram maior frequência de doenças associadas, sendo as principais a hipertensão arterial sistêmica (13,7 por cento vs. 1,1 por cento) e o diabetes mellitus (4,7 por cento vs. 0,3 por cento). As lesões em extremidades foram encontradas em 106 doentes do Grupo I (50,2 por cento), sendo fraturas em 38 casos (18 por cento). Em comparação com os demais traumatizados, os idosos se caracterizaram por apresentar maior média de AIS no segmento cefálico (0,75 + 1,17 vs. 0,54 + 1,04) (p=0,014) e menor média de AIS no tórax (0,15 + 0,62 vs. 0,26 + 0,86) (p=0,018) e no abdome (0,05 + 0,43 vs. 0,21 + 0,82) (p<0,001). No Grupo I, notou-se também maior frequência de lesões graves (AIS > 3) no segmento cefálico (11,4 por cento vs. 7 por cento) (p=0,023) e menor frequência de lesões graves no abdome (1,4 por cento vs. 4,3 por cento) (p=0,025). Algumas lesões foram significativamente mais frequentes nos idosos, como os hematomas subdurais (2,8 por cento vs. 0,8 por cento) (p=0,008), as hemorragias subaracnóideas (3,8 por cento vs. 1,3 por cento) (p=0,005) e as contusões cerebrais (5,2 por cento vs. 2,3 por cento) (p=0,015) quando comparados aos demais traumatizados. CONCLUSÃO: Em comparação aos traumatizados não idosos, os idosos apresentaram as seguintes características: maior frequência de quedas da própria altura, de doenças associadas e de lesões graves intracranianas, incluindo os hematomas subdurais, as contusões cerebrais e as hemorragias em espaço subaracnoide.

OBJECTIVE: Assess the characteristics of trauma in the elderly by comparison to a group of younger trauma patients. METHODS: Trauma protocols from June 10, 2008 to March 9, 2009 were evaluated including all trauma patients above 13 years of age admitted in the emergency room. Data on trauma mechanism, concomitant diseases, vital signs upon admission, diagnosed injuries, trauma indexes, exams and treatment was collected. Patients above 60 years of age. were included in the elderly group (group I). Data was compared between this group and the younger patients (group II), using the Student's t, chi square and Fisher exact tests, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Two thousand and seventy five victims of trauma were included (77.1 percent male), 211 (10.2 percent) in group I. The most frequent trauma mechanisms in the elderly were falls (from their own height) (41 percent) and pedestrian struck (28 percent). Concomitant diseases were more frequent in group I, including systemic arterial hypertension and diabetes mellitus. In group I, the most frequent lesions were located at extremities in 106 patients (50.2 percent). Fractures were present in 18 percent of the elderly. In comparison to younger trauma patients, the elderly had significantly higher head AIS (0.75 + 1.17 vs 0.54 + 1.04) (p=0.014) and lower thoracic (0.15 + 0.62 vs 0.26 + 0.86) (p=0.018) and abdominal (0.05 + 0.43 vs 0.21 + 0.82) (p<0.001) AIS. Severe injuries (AIS > 3) in the head were more frequently observed in group I (11.4 percent vs 7 percent) (p=0,023). Some injuries were more frequent in group I: subdural hematomas (2.8 percent vs 0.8 percent) (p=0.008), subarachnoid hemorrhage (3.8 percent vs 1.3 percent) (p=0.005) and cerebral contusions (5.2 percent vs 2.3 percent) (p=0.015). CONCLUSION: In comparison to younger trauma patients, the elderly group was characterized by a higher frequency of falls from their own height, , concomitant diseases and severe injuries in the head, mainly subdural hematomas, cerebral contusions and subarachnoid hemorrhage.

Lesões graves em vítimas de queda da própria altura / Severe injuries from falls on the same level

OBJETIVO: Avaliar as características das vítimas de queda da própria altura, principalmente a respeito da frequência de lesões graves, seu diagnóstico e tratamento. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo dos protocolos de trauma (coletados prospectivamente) de 10/06/2008 a 10/03/2009, incluindo as vítimas de trauma fechado com idade igual ou superior a 13 anos admitidas na sala de emergência. Consideraremos como "graves" as lesões com escore de AIS (Abbreviated Injury Scale) maior ou igual a três. As variáveis foram comparadas entre o grupo de vítimas de quedas da própria altura (Grupo I) e as demais vítimas de trauma fechado (Grupo II). Empregamos os testes T de Student, Qui quadrado e Fisher para a comparação entre os grupos, considerando o valor de p<0,05 como significante. RESULTADOS: Foram analisados 1993 casos de trauma fechado, sendo que 305 (15 percent) foram vítimas de quedas da própria altura (Grupo I). A média etária nas vítimas de quedas da própria altura foi 52,2 ± 20,9 anos, sendo 64,8 percent do sexo masculino. Noventa e oito (32,1 percent) tinham idade acima de 60 anos. No grupo I, as lesões em segmento cefálico foram as mais encontradas (62,2 percent), seguidas das lesões em extremidades (22,3 percent), torácicas (1,3 percent) e abdominais (0,7 percent). As lesões graves (AIS>3) foram mais frequentemente observadas em segmento cefálico (8,9 percent), seguidas pelas lesões em extremidades (4,9 percent). A craniotomia foi necessária em 2,3 percent das vítimas de quedas de própria altura. Observamos que, em comparação às vítimas de outros mecanismos de trauma fechado, as vítimas de quedas da própria altura apresentavam, significantemente (p<0,05), maior média etária, maior média de pressão arterial sistólica à admissão e maior média de AIS em segmento cefálico bem como menor média de ISS, de AIS em tórax, de AIS em abdome e AIS em extremidades. CONCLUSÃO: A valorização do mecanismo de trauma nas vítimas de quedas da própria altura é de extrema importância, visto a possibilidade de haver lesões graves e clinicamente ocultas, principalmente em segmento cefálico.

OBJECTIVE: Assess characteristics of trauma patients who sustained falls from their own height, more specifically focusing on presence of severe injuries, diagnosis and treatment. METHODS: Retrospective study including all adult blunt trauma patients admitted in the emergency room in a period of 9 months. Lesions with AIS (Abbreviated Injury Scale)>3 were considered "severe". Variables were compared between victims of fall from their own height (group I) and other blunt trauma mechanisms (group II). Student's t, chi square and Fisher exact tests were used for statistical analysis, considering p<0.05 as significant. RESULTS: Of the 1993 trauma patients included, 305 (15 percent) were victims of falls from their own height. In group I, mean age was 52.2 ± 20.8 years and 64.8 percent were male. Injuries in the head segment were the most frequently observed (62.2 percent), followed by injuries in the extremities (22.3 percent), thorax (1.3 percent) and abdomen (0.7 percent). Severe injuries (AIS>3) were more frequent in the head (8.9 percent), followed by extremities (4,9 percent). In group I, craniotomies were needed in 2.3 percent. By comparing groups, we observed that victims of falls from their own height had significantly higher mean age, higher mean systolic blood pressure, and higher head AIS mean, as well as lower ISS mean, thorax AIS mean, abdomen AIS mean and extremities AIS mean. CONCLUSION: Importance of the trauma mechanism in victims of falls from own height should be emphasized due to a considerable possibility of occult severe injuries, mainly in the cephalic segment.

Right hemicolectomy for nontraumatic surgical emergencies.

The objective of this study was to assess the main indications, expected complications, and mortality of right hemicolectomy in nontraumatic surgical emergencies. Fifty-eight patients were analyzed. We concluded that the mortality after right hemicolectomy in nontraumatic surgical emergencies is related to systemic rather than local complications.