Mortalidad en hospitalizados con traumatismo torácico: variables asociadas, causas y distribución temporal / Associated variables, causes and time distribution of mortality in thoracic trauma patients

Resumen Introducción: Los traumatismos están entre las diez principales causas de muerte a nivel mundial y son la primera en jóvenes. El traumatismo torácico (TT) está presente en un alto porcentaje de las muertes por traumatismos y es la segunda causa de muerte después del traumatismo encefalocraneano. Objetivos: Analizar las variables asociadas a mortalidad, las causas principales y la distribución temporal de la mortalidad en hospitalizados fallecidos con TT. Materiales y Método: Estudio observacional de hospitalizados con TT, período enero de 1981 a diciembre de 2018. Revisión de protocolos prospectivos de TT y base de datos. Se consignaron las causas de muerte sindromáticas principales y se realizó una regresión logística para variables asociadas a mortalidad. Se utilizó SPSS25® con pruebas chi-cuadrado para comparar clasificación, tipo de TT y su distribución temporal, considerando significativo p < 0,05. Resultados: Total 4.297 TT, mortalidad global de 120 (2,8%) casos. Las principales variables independientes asociadas a mortalidad fueron el deterioro fisiológico al ingreso, el hemotórax masivo y el TT por arma de fuego. La principal causa de muerte fue el shock hipovolémico, con diferencias significativas según tipo de TT en las primeras 4 y 24 horas. En la distribución temporal se observó que las muertes con TT penetrante y aislado fueron más precoces y no se evidenció un nuevo peak en la mortalidad luego de la primera semana. Conclusiones: Se observaron variables independientes asociadas a mortalidad en hospitalizados con TT, siendo el deterioro fisiológico al ingreso el factor más importante. Además, existen diferencias significativas en las causas de muerte y distribución temporal de la mortalidad entre diferentes subgrupos de hospitalizados con TT.

Background: Trauma is one of the ten leading causes of death worldwide and the first among the youth. Thoracic trauma (TT) is present in a high percentage of deaths due to trauma and is the second leading cause of death after traumatic brain injury. Aim: To analyze the mortality associated variables, major causes and temporal distribution of mortality among dead hospitalized patients with TT. Materials and Method: Observational study in hospitalized patients with TT, period January 1981 to December 2018. Review of prospective TT protocols and data base. Major syndromic causes of death were recorded and a logistic regression for variables associated with mortality was made. SPSS25® with chi-quadrat tests was used to compare classification, type of TT and temporal distribution. A p value < 0,05 was considered significant. Results: Total 4.297 TT and global mortality was 120 (2,8%) cases. The main independent variables associated with mortality were the physiological decline upon admission, massive hemothorax and TT by firearms. The leading cause of death was hypovolemic shock, with significant differences according to the type of TT in the first 4 and 24 hours. In the temporal distribution was observed that, the deaths with penetrating and isolated TT were earlier and that there was no second peak of mortality following the first week. Conclusions: Independent variables associated with mortality were observed among hospitalized patients with TT, being physiological deterioration the most important factor. Besides, there are significant differences in the death causes and temporal distribution of mortality among the different subgroups of hospitalized patients with TT.

Traumatismo torácico por arma de fuego / Thoracic trauma by firearms

Resumen Introducción: Los traumatismos torácicos por armas de fuego (TTAF) son cada vez más frecuentes. Objetivos: Describir características clínicas, morbilidad, mortalidad y la evolución a través del tiempo de hospitalizados por TTAF. Materiales y Método: Estudio analítico longitudinal. Período enero de 1981-diciembre de 2018. Revisión base de datos, protocolos prospectivos y fichas clínicas. Se utilizó planilla Microsoft Excel® y programa SPSS24® con chi cuadrado y de Mann-Whitney. Descripción de características de TTAF en pacientes hospitalizados y comparación por períodos. Se calcularon índices de gravedad del traumatismo (IGT): Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T), Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). Resultados: Total 4.306 pacientes hospitalizados por traumatismo torácico (TT), 205 (4,8%) hospitalizados por TTAF. Hombres: 188 (91,7%), edad promedio 28,8 ± 11,2 años, TTAF aislado 115 (56,1%), asociado a lesiones extratorácicas 90 (43,9%), de estos 55 (26,8%) se consideraron politraumatismos. Mecanismo: Agresión 193 (94,1%), autoagresión 11 (5,4%) y accidental 1 (0,5%). Lesiones y/o hallazgos torácicos más frecuentes: Hemotórax 127 (62,0%), neumotórax 96 (46,8%) y contusión pulmonar 51 (24,9%). Tratamiento definitivo: Pleurotomía 88 (42,9%), cirugía 71 (34,6%) y tratamiento médico 46 (22,4%). Mediana de hospitalización 7 días. Según IGT: ISS promedio 16,7 ± 11,7, RTS-T promedio 11,1 ± 2,1, TRISS promedio 9,6. Morbilidad: 44 (21,5%). Mortalidad: 14 (6,8%). En los diferentes períodos, se observó aumento de politraumatismos y TRISS, sin cambios en mortalidad. Discusión: La mayoría de los TTAF fueron aislados. Aproximadamente un tercio de los pacientes requirió cirugía. La mortalidad observada es menor a la esperada. Se observan cambios en los TTAF a través del tiempo.

Background: Thoracic trauma by firearms (TTF) are increasingly frequent. Aim: To describe clinical characteristics, morbidity and mortality and the evolution over time of patients hospitalized due TTF. Materials and Method: Longitudinal analytical study. Period January 1981 - December 2018. Database review, prospective protocols and clinical files. Microsoft Excel® spreadsheet and SPSS24® program with chi square and Mann-Whitney tests were used. Description of characteristics of TTF in hospitalized patients and comparison of TTF by periods. Trauma severity indexes (TSI) were calculated: Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T), Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). Results: Total: 4306 hospitalized patients due thoracic trauma (TT), 205 (4.8%) hospitalized due TTF. Men: 188 (91.7%), average age 28.8 ± 11.2 years, isolated TTF 115 (56.1%), associated with extrathoracic lesions 90 (43.9%), and of these 55 (26.8%) were considered polytraumatism. Mechanisms: aggression 193 (94.1%), self-harm 11 (5.4%) and accidental 1 (0.5%). Frequent thoracic injuries and/or findings: hemothorax 127 (62.0%), pneumothorax 96 (46.8%) and pulmonary contusion 51 (24.9%). Definitive treatment: Pleurotomy 88 (42.9%), surgery 71 (34.6%) and medical treatment 46 (22.4%). Median hospitalization 7 days. According TSI: Average ISS 16.7 ± 11.7, average RTS-T 11.1 ± 2.1, average TRISS 9.6. Morbidity: 44 (21.5%). Mortality: 14 (6.8%). There is an increase in polytraumatism and average TRISS, without changes in mortality. Discussion: The majority of TTF were isolated TT. Approximately one third of patients required surgery. The observed mortality is lower than expected. Changes in TTF were observed over time.

Traumatismo torácico en el adulto mayor / Thoracic trauma in the elderly

Resumen Introducción: Los traumatismos constituyen la quinta causa de muerte en el adulto mayor (60 años o más), siendo los traumatismos contusos los más frecuentes. Objetivo: Describir características, índices de gravedad de traumatismo (IGT), morbilidad y mortalidad en adultos mayores (AM) hospitalizados con traumatismo torácico (TT). Materiales y Método: Estudio descriptivo transversal. Período desde enero de 1981 a diciembre de 2017. Revisión de base de datos, protocolos quirúrgicos y fichas clínicas. Descripción de características de TT en AM hospitalizados. Se calculó IGT: Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T), Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). Resultados: Total 4.163 TT, AM 513 (12,3%). Hombres: 350 (68,2%), edad promedio 71,2 ± 8,4 años, mediana 70 (rango: 60-103), TT aislado 350 (68,2%), asociado a lesiones extratorácicas 163 (31,8%) y de estos 96 (18,7%) se consideraron politraumatismos. Traumatismo contuso 456 (88,9%) y penetrante 57 (11,1%). La causa más frecuente fueron las caídas en 252 (49,1%). Lesiones y/o hallazgos torácicos más frecuentes: fracturas costales 409 (79,7%), hemotórax 186 (36,3%) y neumotórax 185 (36,1%). Tratamiento definitivo: médico 287 (55,9%), pleurotomía 193 (37,6%) y cirugía 40 (7,8%). Cirugía extratorácica 33 (6,4%). Hospitalización promedio 9,0 ± 8,8 días. Según IGT: ISS promedio 12,1 ± 9,6, RTS-T promedio 11,6 ± 1,3, TRISS promedio 8,1. Morbilidad 76 (14,8%) y mortalidad 26 (5,1%). Discusión: La mayoría de los TT en AM son contusos, causados por accidentes domésticos. Las lesiones y hallazgos más frecuentes fueron fracturas costales y hemotórax. La mortalidad fue menor a la esperada según IGT.

Introduction: Trauma is the fifth leading cause of death in the elderly (60 or older), with blunt trauma being the most frequent. Objective: To describe characteristics, Trauma Severity Indices (TSI) and morbidity and mortality in hospitalized elderly for Thoracic Trauma (TT). Materials and Method: Crosssectional descriptive study was carried out. Term: from January 1981 to December 2017. Database review, surgical protocols and medical records were performed. TT description of characteristics was conducted in hospitalized elderly. TSI was calculated: Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T), Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). Results: Total 4.163 TT, 513 elderly (12.3%). Men: 350 (68.2%), average age 71.2 ± 8.4 years, 70 median (range 60-103). Isolated TT: 350 (68.2%), 163 associated with extrathoracic trauma (31.8%) and of these 96 (18.7%) were considered polytraumatism. Blunt trauma 456 (88.9%) and penetrating 57 (11.1%). Most frequent domestic accident mechanism was 196 (38.2%) and 158 traffic accidents (30.8%). Frequently thoracic injuries or findings: 409 rib fractures (79.7%), 186 hemothorax (36.3%), and 185 pneumothorax (36.1%). Final treatment: 287 Medical treatment (55.9%), 193 pleurotomy (37.6%), and 40 thoracic surgery (7.8%). Extrathoracic surgery 33 (6.4%). Average hospitalization: 9.0 ± 8.8 days. According IGT: ISS 12.1 ± 9.6, RTS-T 11.6 ± 1.3, TRISS 8.1. Morbidity: 76 (14.8%) and mortality: 26 (5.1%). Discussion: Most TT in elderly are blunt, caused by domestic accidents. Injuries and most frequent findings were rib fractures and hemothorax. Mortality was lower than expected according to TSI.

Traumatismo torácico por arma blanca / Thoracic trauma by a bladed weapon

Resumen Objetivos Describir las características, índices de gravedad de traumatismo (IGT), morbilidad, mortalidad y factores asociados a mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados por traumatismo torácico por arma blanca (TTAB). Materiales y Método Estudio analítico transversal. Período enero de 1981 a diciembre de 2017. Revisión base de datos prospectiva, protocolos quirúrgicos, fichas clínicas. Se describe y compara las características de los TTAB. Se calculó IGT: Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score ( RTS-T) y Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). Resultados Total 4.163 pacientes hospitalizados por TT, 2.286 hospitalizados por TTAB. Hombres: 2.131 (93,2%), edad promedio 27,8 ± 10,7 años, TTAB aislado 2.035 (89,0%), asociado a lesiones extratorácicas 251 (11,0%) y de éstos 124 (5,5%) se consideraron politraumatismos. Mecanismos principales del traumatismo: agresión 2.246 (98,3%) y autoagresión 22 (1,0%). Lesiones y hallazgos torácicos más frecuentes: neumotórax 1.473 (64,4%), hemotórax 1.408 (61,6%), enfisema subcutáneo 485 (21,2%). Tratamiento definitivo: pleurotomía 1.378 (60,3%), cirugía torácica 537 (23,5%) y tratamiento médico 370 (16,2%). Hospitalización promedio 6,2 ± 6,5 días, IGT: ISS promedio 10,9 ± 7,2, RTS-T promedio 11,6 ± 1,4 y TRISS promedio 3,6. Morbilidad: 318 (13,9%). Mortalidad: 32 (1,4%). Conclusión Los TTAB ocurren frecuentemente en hombres jóvenes por agresión. La mayoría se puede tratar con pleurotomía exclusiva.

Aim Our objectives are to describe and correlate the clinical characteristics, trauma severity indexes (TSI) and morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalized for thoracic trauma by a bladed weapon (TTBW). Materials and Method Transversal analytic study. Period January-1981 to December-2017. Prospective database review, surgical protocols, clinical files. The characteristics of the TTBW are described and compared. Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T) and Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS) were calculated. Results Total of 4,163 patients hospitalized for TT, 2,286 hospitalized for TTBW. Men: 2,131 (93.2%), average age 27.8 ± 10.7 years, isolated TTBW 2,035 (89.0%), associated with extra thoracic injuries 251 (11.0%) and of these 124 (5.5%) were considered polytrauma. Main mechanisms of trauma: Aggression 2,246 (98.3%) and self-aggression 22 (1.0%). Most frequent injuries and thoracic findings: pneumothorax 1,473 (64.4%), hemothorax 1,408 (61.6%), subcutaneous emphysema 485 (21.2%). Definitive treatment: Pleurotomy 1,378 (60.3%), thoracic surgery 537 (23.5%) and medical treatment 370 (16.2%). Average hospital stay: 6.2 ± 6.5 days. ISS average 10.9 ± 7.2, RTS-T average 11.6 ± 1.4 and TRISS average 3.6. Morbidity: 318 (13.9%). Mortality: 32 (1.4%). Discussion TTBW are frequent in our environment, unlike on an international level. Conclusions TTBW frequently occur in young male patients due to aggression. The majority can be treated with exclusive pleurotomy.

Traumatismo torácico contuso / Blunt Thoracic Trauma

INTRODUCCIÓN: El traumatismo torácico (TT) es una causa importante de morbilidad y mortalidad, presente en el 25-50% de la mortalidad por traumatismo. El TT contuso (TTC) es el tipo más frecuente de TT según las diferentes publicaciones internacionales. OBJETIVO: Nuestros objetivos son describir las características, tratamientos, morbilidad y mortalidad en pacientes hospitalizados por TTC en nuestra institución. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: Estudio descriptivo transversal desde enero-1981 a diciembre-2017. Revisión de una base de datos prospectiva, protocolos quirúrgicos y fichas clínicas. Se describen y comparan las características de los TTC. Se calcularon índices de gravedad de traumatismo (IGT): Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T), Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). RESULTADOS: Total 4.163 pacientes hospitalizados por TT, 1.719 (41,3%) TTC. Hombres 1.327 (77,2%), edad promedio 46,7±18,8 años. Se consideró TT aislado 966 (56,2%), asociado a lesiones extratorácicas 753 (43,8%) y de estos 508 (29,6%) eran politraumatizados. Mecanismo: Accidente de tránsito 838 (48,7%), caída de altura 279 (16,2%). Lesiones y hallazgos torácicos: fractura costal 1.294 (75,3%), neumotórax 752 (43,1%). Tratamiento: médico 874 (50,8%), pleurotomía 704 (41%) y cirugía torácica 141 (8,2%). Período de hospitalización 9,2 ± 9,5 días. Según IGT: ISS promedio 14,1 ± 11,1, RTS-Tpromedio 11,5 ± 1,5, TRISS promedio 6,6. Morbilidad en 297 (17,3%), mortalidad en 68 (4%). DISCUSIÓN: La causa principal de los TTC fue el accidente de tránsito. La fractura costal correspondió a la lesión torácica más frecuente. La mayoría requirió solo tratamiento médico. La mortalidad fue menor a la esperada según IGT.

BACKGROUND: Thoracic trauma (TT) is a major cause of morbimortality, involved in 25-50% of trauma deaths. Internationally, blunt thoracic trauma (BTT) is the most frequent type of TT. OBJECTIVE: Our objectives are to describe the clinical characteristics, treatments, morbidity and mortality in patients hospitalized by blunt thoracic trauma (BTT) in our institution. MATERIAL AND METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive study from january-1981 to december-2017. Prospective database review, surgical protocols and clinical files. The characteristics of the BTT are described and compared. The following trauma severity indices (TSI) were calculated: Injury Severity Score (ISS), Revised Trauma Score (RTS-T) and Trauma Injury Severity Score (TRISS). RESULTS: 4,163 patients were hospitalized because of TT, 1.719 (41.3%) of them with BTT. 1,327 (77.2%)patients were men, average age 46.7 ± 18.8 years-old. We considered isolated TT 966 (56.2%), associated with extrathoracic lesions 753 (43,8%) and 508 (29.6%)with polytraumatism. Mechanism: Traffic accident 838 (48.7%), fall down from a height 279 (16.2%). Lesions and intrathoracic findings: rib fracture 1.294 (75.3%), pneumothorax 752 (43.7%). Treatment: Medical 876 (50.8%), pleurotomy 704 (41%) and thoracic surgery 141 (8.2%). Average hospitalized period 9.2 ± 9.5 days. According to TSI: ISS average 14.1 ± 11.1, RTS-T average 11.5 ± 1.5, TRISS average 6.6. Morbidity in 297 (17.3%), mortality in 68 (4%). DISCUSSION: The TTC was mainly attributed to the traffic accident. Rib fracture was the most common chest injury. The majority of patients required only medical treatment. Mortality was lower than expected according to TSI.

Fraturas de esterno em uma unidade de tratamento intensivo especializada em trauma / Sternal fractures in a level III trauma intensive care unit

RESUMO Objetivo: avaliar epidemiologia, características anatômicas, manejo e prognóstico de pacientes críticos com fraturas de esterno. Métodos: análise retrospectiva de pacientes internados em unidade de terapia intensiva (UTI) de emergências cirúrgicas e trauma de um centro de trauma Tipo III em São Paulo, Brasil. Resultados: foram admitidos 1552 pacientes traumatizados no período de janeiro de 2012 a abril de 2016. Desses, 439 apresentavam trauma torácico e 13 apresentavam fratura de esterno, configurando 0,9% das admissões de trauma e 3% dos traumas torácicos. Desses pacientes, três apresentavam tórax instável e dois foram submetidos à conduta cirúrgica para fixação da fratura. A mortalidade de pacientes com fratura de esterno foi de 29% (três pacientes). Em um dos óbitos pôde-se atribuir a fratura do esterno como contribuinte principal para o desfecho. Conclusão: a fratura de esterno foi diagnosticada em 0,9% dos pacientes críticos vítimas de trauma em UTI especializada. Somente 15% dos pacientes necessitaram de conduta cirúrgica específica na fase aguda e a mortalidade foi decorrente das outras lesões na maior parte dos casos.

ABSTRACT Objective: to evaluate epidemiology, anatomical characteristics, management, and prognosis of critical patients with sternum fractures. Methods: retrospective analysis of patients admitted to intensive care unit (ICU) of a Level III trauma center in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Results: 1552 trauma patients were admitted from January 2012 to April 2016. A total of 439 patients had thoracic trauma and among these, 13 patients had sternum fracture, making up 0.9% of all trauma admissions and 3% of all thoracic trauma cases. Three of these 13 patients had unstable chest, two underwent surgical management for fracture fixation, and three died (mortality was of 29%). In one of the deaths, sternum fracture was assessed as the main contributor to the outcome. Conclusion: sternum fracture was diagnosed in 0.9% of critical trauma patients in a specialized ICU. Only 15% of patients required specific surgical management in the acute phase. In most cases, mortality was due to other injuries.

Trauma cardíaco fatal na cidade de Manaus/AM, Brasil / Fatal cardiac trauma in the city of Manaus, Amazonas state, Brazil

RESUMO Objetivo: determinar o índice de trauma cardíaco fatal na cidade de Manaus e esclarecer os mecanismos de trauma e de morte, o tratamento hospitalar prévio, assim como as lesões associadas ao trauma cardíaco. Métodos: estudo retrospectivo, observacional, transversal, que revisou os laudos de necropsias do Instituto Médico Legal de Manaus entre novembro de 2015 e outubro de 2016, cuja causa mortis foi lesão cardíaca. Resultados: o índice de trauma cardíaco foi de 5,98% (138 casos) dentre 2306 necropsias realizadas no período do estudo. Homens foram afetados em 92%. A mediana de idade foi de 27 anos (14 a 83). A arma de fogo foi o mecanismo de trauma em 62,3% e a arma branca em 29,7%. A exsanguinação foi responsável pela maioria das mortes e o tamponamento cardíaco esteve presente em segundo lugar. Óbito no local ocorreu em 86,2%. Os ventrículos foram as câmaras mais lesionadas. O hemotórax foi descrito em 90,6%. Apenas 23 (16,7%) doentes foram removidos até o pronto socorro, porém seis deles (26,2%) não foram submetidos à toracotomia, apenas à drenagem de tórax. O pulmão foi acometido em 57% unilateralmente e 43% bilateralmente. Conclusão: o trauma cardíaco fatal representou um índice de 5,98% na cidade de Manaus. A maioria dos doentes morre na cena do trauma, geralmente devido à exsanguinação causada por ferimento de arma de fogo. Cerca de um quarto dos pacientes que chegaram ao pronto socorro e morreram, não foram diagnosticados com trauma cardíaco em tempo hábil.

ABSTRACT Objective: to determine the frequency of fatal cardiac trauma in the city of Manaus, Brazil, between November 2015 and October 2016, and to clarify the mechanisms of trauma and death, previous hospital treatment, as well as the injuries associated with cardiac trauma. Methods: retrospective, observational, and cross-sectional study, which reviewed the necropsy reports of individuals whose cause of death was cardiac injury. Results: the cardiac trauma rate was of 5.98% (138 cases) out of 2,306 necropsies performed in the study period by Instituto Médico Legal (IML) de Manaus (IML is a Brazilian institute responsible for necropsies and cadaveric reports). Males accounted for 92% of the cases. The median age was 27 years (14-83). Gunshot wounds (GSW) was the trauma mechanism in 62.3% and stab wound (SW) in 29.7%. Exsanguination was responsible for most of the deaths and cardiac tamponade was present in second place. On-site death occurred in 86.2% of the cases. The ventricles were the most common site of cardiac injury. Hemothorax was identified in 90.6% of the individuals. Only 23 patients (16.7%) were taken to the hospital (Emergency Room), but six (26.2%) were submitted only to chest drainage, not to thoracotomy. The lung was unilaterally affected in 57% of the cases and bilaterally in 43%. Conclusion: fatal cardiac trauma represented an index of 5.98% in the city of Manaus. Most patients die at the scene of the trauma, usually due to exsanguination caused by gunshot wound. About a quarter of patients who reached the hospital and died were not diagnosed with cardiac trauma in time.

Factores pronósticos de complicaciones y mortalidad posoperatorias en la cirugía torácica en ancianos / Thoracic surgery in elderlies. Prognostic factor for postoperative complications and mortality

Introducción: el aumento de la población de ancianos incrementará el número de operaciones torácicas en pacientes con índices de mortalidad y complicaciones posoperatorias significativas. Objetivo: definir la relación de la edad con las complicaciones y la mortalidad en ancianos sometidos a intervenciones torácicas. Métodos: estudio observacional, longitudinal y de cohorte de 77 pacientes operados por lesiones torácicas entre enero de 2012 y enero de 2015, clasificados en 2 grupos. A: pacientes entre 60 y 69 años (control) y B: pacientes de 70 años o mayores (estudio). Las variables sexo, enfermedades asociadas y los resultados de las clasificaciones ASA, ECOG e IMC se usaron para caracterizar los grupos de edad. Las variables de respuesta fueron complicaciones y mortalidad. Resultados: al grupo A pertenecían 44 pacientes (57,1 por ciento) y al B, 33 (42,9 por ciento). No hubo diferencias significativas entre los grupos de edad según sexo (p= 0,891), enfermedades asociadas (p= 0,7), clasificaciones ASA (p= 0,364), ECOG (p= 0,57) e índice de masa corporal (p= 0,924); 20,5 por ciento y 23,3 por ciento en los grupos A y B, respectivamente, presentaron complicaciones. La mortalidad fue del 6,8 por ciento (grupo A) y 9,1 por cietno (grupo B). No obstante, las complicaciones (p= 0,368) y la mortalidad (Fi, p= 0,516) no mostraron asociación significativa con la edad. El sangrado perioperatorio se asoció con la mortalidad (Fisher, p= 0,029 RR:9,13). Conclusiones: las complicaciones y la mortalidad fueron más frecuentes en el grupo B. No obstante, no se demostró relación estadística con la edad, hecho probablemente explicado por los resultados similares de las variables para caracterizar ambos grupos(AU)

Introduction: The increased number of elderly people will increase the number of thoracic surgical interventions in this group of patients. Objective: To define the relationship between age, complications and mortality in elderly people surgically treated by thoracic interventions. Methods: Observational, longitudinal and cohort study of 77 patients operated for thoracic lesions, between January 2012 and January 2015, and classified in two groups. Group A: patients aged 60-69 years (control group), and group B: patients aged 70 years and over (study group). The variables sex, comorbidity and outcome of the classifications according to ASA, ECOG and BMI were used to characterize both groups. The answer variables were complications and mortality. Results: There were 44 (57.1 percent) patients in group A and 33 (42.9 percent) in group B. There were no significant differences between age groups and sex (P=0.891), comorbidity (P=,0,7), neither on classifications according to ASA (P=0.364), ECOG (P=0.57), IMC (P=0.924). The complication incidence was 205 percent (group A) and 23.3 percent (group B). Mortality was 6.8 percent (group A) and 9.1 percent (group B). Nevertheless, complications (p=0.368) and mortality (p=0.516) were not associated with age. Perioperative bleeding was associated with mortality (Fisher, p=0.029; RR: 913). Conclusions: Complications and mortality were more frequent in group B. However, no statistic relation was shown with age, probably due to similar results of the variables for characterizing both groups(AU)

Trauma de tórax en la unidad de cuidados intensivos: factores de riesgo de ventilación prolongada y de muerte / Thoracic trauma in the Intensive Care Unit. Risk factors responsible for prolonged mechanical ventilation and death

Introducción: el trauma de tórax es una entidad frecuente,70% en el contexto de politraumatismos, 46,5% corresponde a siniestros de tránsito. Involucra a pacientes jóvenes con mortalidad de hasta 30%(¹). Material y método: estudio de cohorte dinámica de pacientes adultos en cuidados críticos, período: marzo de 2014 a junio de 2015. Datos recabados prospectivamente: demográficos, comorbilidades, scores de gravedad, asistencia ventilatoria, tratamiento, complicaciones, evolución. Se buscaron factores de riesgo de: ventilación prolongada (?7 días) y de muerte de forma univariada y multivariada con regresión logística, expresados en Odds Ratio (OR) con intervalos de confianza (IC) de 95%. Se utilizaron test de Student y Mann-Whitney para variables cuantitativas; chi cuadrado y test de Fisher para cualitativas. Nivel de significación < 0,05. Resultados: 66 pacientes, 82% hombres. Edad media 43±17 años (± 1 desvío estándar); 73% accidentes de tránsito; 94% trauma cerrado; 60,6% con asistencia ventilatoria mecánica (AVM) invasiva; factores independientes de riesgo para ventilación prolongada: Injury Severity Score (ISS), y NAV (neumonía del ventilado) tardía. Por cada incremento de ISS existe 1,28 más riesgo de tener AVM ?7días y la NAV tardía lo incrementa por 27,46. Todos los fallecidos (9%) estuvieron en AVM, pero no hubo relación entre muerte y ventilación prolongada. Factores de riesgo univariado de muerte: obesidad, NAV temprana, shock hemorrágico, Apache II ?18. Conclusiones: la NAV tardía fue un factor independiente de riesgo de AVM prolongada, también lo fue cada punto de ascenso del ISS en relación con su valor inferior. Tenían riesgo de morir los obesos, los que tenían NAV temprana, shock hemorrágico y Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) II ?18.

Abstract Introduction: thoracic trauma is a common condition, 70% of cases lie within the framework of polytrauma and 46.5% correspond to traffic accidents. Trauma involves young patients with mortality rates of 30%. Method: we conducted a cohort study oo adult patients in critical condition from March, 2014 to June, 2015. The following data was collected prospectively: demographic details, comorbilities, injury severity scores, mechanical ventilation, treatment, complications and evolution. Risk factors were studied in connection with prolonged mechanical ventilation (=>7 days) and univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were conducted, expressed in odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals. Student’s t Test and Mann-Whitney U tests were used for quantitative variables; Chi-square test and Fisher exact test were used for qualitative variables. The level of statistical significance was <0,05. Results: the study included 66 patients, 82% of them were male. Average age 43±17years old (±1 standard deviation). 73% accounted for traffic accidents, 94% were cases of closed trauma, 60,6% with invasive mechanical ventilation. Independent risk factors for prolonged ventilation: Injury Severity Score (ISS), and late ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Every time the ISS increases the risk of needing mechanical ventilation assistance ? 7days rises 1.28 more times and the late VAP increases it this need by 27.46%. All patients who died (9%) were on mechanical ventilation, although there was no relationship between death and prolonged ventilation. Univariate risk factors: obesity, early VAP, Hemorrhagic shock, Apache II ?18. Conclusions: late VAP was an independent risk factor for prolonged mechanical ventilation, the same as increase in the value of the ISS score, when compared to the lower levels or scores. Obese patients, those with early mechanical ventilation, Hemorrhagic shock and Apache II ?18 were in risk.

Resumo Introdução: Esta é uma lesão frequente, 70% diagnosticadas em politraumatizados, sendo que 46.5% ocorreram como consequência de acidentes de trânsito. Pacientes jovens apresentam uma mortalidade de até 30%(¹). Material e método: Estudo de coorte dinâmica de pacientes adultos em cuidados críticos, realizado no período março 2014-junio 2015. Foram coletados prospectivamente dados: demográficos, comorbidades, graus de gravidade, assistência ventilatória, tratamento, complicações, evolução. Os fatores de risco ventilação prolongada (?7 dias) e morte foram analisados de forma univariada e multivariada com regressão logística, expressados em Odds Ratio (OR) com intervalos de confiança (IC) a 95%. Para variáveis quantitativas foi utilizado o teste de Student e Mann-Whitney e para as qualitativas Chi quadrado e teste de Fisher. Nível de significância < 0,05. Resultados: foram incluídos 66 pacientes, sendo 82% do sexo masculino. A média de idade foi 43±17 anos (± 1 desvio padrão). 73% correspondiam a acidentes de trânsito. 94% apresentavam trauma cerrado; 60,6% com assistência ventilatória mecânica invasiva (AVM). Fatores independentes de risco para ventilação prolongada: injury severity score (ISS), e NAV (Pneumonia do ventilador) de inicio tardio. Por cada incremento de ISS há um aumento de 1,28 do risco de estar com AVM ?7dias e a NAV de inicio tardio aumenta em 27,46. Todos os falecidos (9%) receberam AVM, porém não se encontrou relação entre morte e ventilação prolongada. Os fatores de risco univariado de morte foram obesidade, NAV de inicio precoce, choque hemorrágico, Apache II ?18. Conclusões: foram fatores independente de risco de AVM prolongada a NAV de inicio tardio e também cada ponto de incremento do ISS em relação ao seu valor inferior. Apresentavam risco de morte os obesos, os que tenham NAV de inicio precoce, choque hemorrágico e Apache II ?18.

Caracterización de lesionados con hemoneumotórax traumático en el Hospital Universitario "General Calixto García" (2012 - 2014) / Characterization of injured patients with traumatic hemo-pneumothorax at General Calixto García University Hospital (2012-2014)

Introducción: el trauma torácico constituye una causa frecuente de mortalidad temprana y tardía que ocurre en 25 por ciento del total de lesionados. Objetivo: caracterizar el comportamiento clínico-epidemiológico de los lesionados con diagnóstico de hemoneumotórax traumático. Métodos: se realizó un estudio observacional descriptivo, longitudinal retrospectivo, que incluyó 357 lesionados con diagnóstico de hemoneumotórax traumático, ingresados en el servicio de cirugía general del Hospital Universitario General Calixto García desde el 1 de enero de 2012 hasta 31 de diciembre de 2014. Se incluyeron variables como: edad, sexo, causa del trauma, atención médica prehospitalaria y hospitalaria, índice de gravedad de la lesión, lesiones asociadas, estadía hospitalaria y estado al egreso. Resultados: predominó el sexo masculino (78,1 por ciento ) y la edad de 20 a 39 años (26,0 por ciento ). Los accidentes de tránsito fueron la principal causa del trauma y la gravedad se incrementó por la presencia de traumas raquimedulares y choque hipovolémico. Los lesionados clasificados como moderados según el índice de gravedad de la lesión fueron 53,3 por ciento. Los lesionados que llegaron al hospital una a dos horas de ocurrido el trauma fueron 41,2 por ciento. La estadía hospitalaria con mayor número de egresados vivos fue entre cuatro y cinco días. Los fallecimientos ocurrieron en su mayoría después de los siete días. Las lesiones asociadas y la descompensación de las enfermedades crónicas fueron las responsables del mayor número de fallecidos (n= 46 12,9 por ciento). Conclusiones: las características clínico-epidemiológicas de los lesionados con hemoneumotórax traumático coinciden con las reportadas por estudios nacionales e internacionales(AU)

Introduction: thoracic trauma is a common cause for early and late mortality, occurring in 25 percent of all injured patients. Objective: to characterize the clinical and epidemiological behavior of the injured patients with traumatic hemo-pneumothorax. Methods: a descriptive, retrospective, longitudinal study was carried out, involving 357 injured patients diagnosed with traumatic hemo-pneumothorax and admitted to the general surgery service at General Calixto García University Hospital from January 1, 2012 until December 31, 2014. The variables included were age, sex, cause for trauma, pre-hospital and hospital care, severity rate of injury, associated injuries, hospital stay and discharge status. Results: there was a predominance of males (78.1 percent ) and of ages 20-39 years (26.0 percent ). Traffic accidents were the main cause for trauma and severity increased by the presence of hypovolemic shock trauma and spinal cord injuries. According to the injury severity index, 53.3 percent of the injured patients were classified as moderate. 41.2 percent of the injured patients arrived at the hospital 1-2 hours after the trauma. The hospital stays for highest number of admitted alive was between four and five days. The deaths occurred mostly after seven days. Associated injuries and decompensation of chronic diseases were causes for the largest amount of deaths (12.9 percent , n= 46). Conclusions: the clinical and epidemiological characteristics of the injured patients with traumatic hemo-pneumothorax match those reported by national and international studies(AU)

Landslide fatalities: A study of six cases.

A mountain collapsed on National Highway-53(NH-53) on 6th July 2011 around 2:30 p.m. A minibus which was carrying Security Personnel of Manipur Rifles (MR) and Indian Reserved Battalion (IRB) was hit by the landslide. Six occupants died on the spot and seven were injured. The cases were registered under U.D. Case no. 5/2011/G-SPM-PS and were brought to the RIMS Morgue the next day for Post Mortem Examination (PME). On PME, the victims showed general features of blunt force injuries with gross deformation and one case showed clogging of the whole respiratory tract with soil debris of the landslide. The victims died almost immediately on the spot due to vital organs injuries except in one case where it was due to traumatic asphyxia. Landslides occur frequently in these National Highways due to the hilly terrain and the perpetual rains, such major fatalities have never occurred before. Therefore the cases are reported here to analyze the types of injuries sustained, the causes of death and to discuss precautionary measures for prevention of further mishaps. This will also serve as an eye-opener to the magnitude of severity such a natural disaster.

Blunt injuries of chest: A medicolegal analysis.

Chest injuries are always a great challenge for medical professionals as two of the vital organs, which are present there, very often involved & damaged causing excessive bleeding and death. These injuries are usually caused by blunt forces or sharp penetrating weapons. Here in this paper 60 cases of chest injuries by blunt forces are studied for their epidemiological, medicolegal and clinico-pathological aspects. Most of them are adult/ middle aged male between 20-50years of age, hit or run over by heavy vehicles in road traffic accidents. Lungs are lacerated in almost all the cases and internal haemorrhage & shock is the prime cause of death. Heart, aorta & other organs were also involved in substantial number of cases. Though majority of them died within two hours, either on the spot or in the way to the hospital, an attempt is also made to correlate the prognosis & the nature of injuries.

Victim profile and pattern of thoraco-abdominal injuries sustained in fatal road traffic accidents.

The present research aims to highlight the pattern of thoraco-abdominal injuries sustained by the victims of fatal road traffic accidents (RTA) in Manipal, South India. The study is an autopsy based observation of thoraco-abdominal injuries in victims of fatal road traffic accidents during 1999 – 2003. Road traffic accidents accounted for most of the injury related deaths (77%) during the study period. A male preponderance (86%) was observed with a male-female ratio of 6:1. Individuals in the age group of 21 to 50 years formed the most vulnerable (83%) group. External thoracic injuries were more common than internal thoracic injuries in the thoracic region. In the abdominal region, internal injuries were more common than external injuries. Lungs (61%) and kidneys (23%) were the most commonly involved organs in the thoracic and abdominal regions respectively. Majority of the victims were two wheeler occupants (35%) followed by pedestrians (23%). The study indicates the pattern of thoraco-abdominal injuries sustained along with the trend of road traffic accidents in the region.

Mortalidade e fatores associados em uma UTI de cirurgia torácica / Mortality and associated factors in a thoracic surgery ICU

OBJETIVO: Determinar a mortalidade e identificar fatores de riscos associados em pacientes em uma UTI de cirurgia torácica. MÉTODOS: Foram avaliados retrospectivamente 141 pacientes admitidos na UTI de cirurgia torácica do Hospital Estadual de Denizli, localizado na cidade de Denizli, Turquia, entre janeiro de 2006 e agosto de 2008. Foram coletados dados sobre gênero, idade, causa de admissão, intervenções invasivas e operações, status de ventilação mecânica invasiva, infecções e tempo de permanência na UTI. RESULTADOS: Dos 141 pacientes, 103 (73,0 por cento) eram do sexo masculino e 38 (23,0 por cento) do sexo feminino. A média de idade foi de 52,1 anos (variação: 12-92 anos), e a taxa de mortalidade foi de 16,3 por cento. A causa de admissão mais frequente foi trauma. A mortalidade correlacionou-se com idade avançada (p < 0,05), uso de ventilação mecânica invasiva (OR = 42,375; p < 0,05), longa permanência na UTI (p < 0,05) e causas de admissão específicas - trauma, injúria por arma de fogo, injúria por arma branca e malignidade (p < 0,05 para todos). CONCLUSÕES: Os pacientes em uma UTI de cirurgia torácica têm alta morbidade e mortalidade. Um conhecimento maior dos fatores de risco de mortalidade pode melhorar a eficiência do tratamento, resultando em diminuição da morbidade e mortalidade, o que gerará economia de tempo e reduzirá os custos financeiros.

OBJECTIVE: To assess mortality and identify mortality risk factors in patients admitted to a thoracic surgery ICU. METHODS: We retrospectively evaluated 141 patients admitted to the thoracic surgery ICU of the Denizli State Hospital, located in the city of Denizli, Turkey, between January of 2006 and August of 2008. We collected data regarding gender, age, reason for admission, invasive interventions and operations, invasive mechanical ventilation, infections, and length of ICU stay. RESULTS: Of the 141 patients, 103 (73.0 percent) were male, and 38 (23.0 percent) were female. The mean age was 52.1 years (range, 12-92 years), and the mortality rate was 16.3 percent. The most common reason for admission was trauma. Mortality was found to correlate with advanced age (p < 0.05), requiring invasive mechanical ventilation (OR = 42.375; p < 0.05), prolonged ICU stay (p < 0.05), and specific reasons for admission-trauma, gunshot wound, stab wound, and malignancy (p < 0.05 for all). CONCLUSIONS: Among patients in a thoracic surgery ICU, the rates of morbidity and mortality are high. Increased awareness of mortality risk factors can improve the effectiveness of treatment, which should reduce the rates of morbidity and mortality, thereby providing time savings and minimizing costs.

Trauma torácico severo (TTS): experiencia en el Hospital Domingo Luciani: Caracas / Severe thoracic trauma (TTS): experience in the Hospital Domingo Luciani: Caracas

Describir la incidencia y manejo del trauma torácico severo en los Servicios de Cirugía del Hospital "Dr. Domingo Luciani" durante el período 2008-2009. Estudio retrospectivo, descriptivo, transversal. Se seleccionaron pacientes diagnósticados como traumatismo torácico en el centro, que presentaron fracturas del primer, segundo o tercer arco costal, fractura escapular, fractura esternal, ó la combinación de cualquiera de estas, desde enero de 2008 hasta diciembre 2009. Se evaluo edad, sexo, evento traumático, radiología, días hospitalización, toracotomía mínima, valores de laboratorio e ingreso a UTI. El grupo mayormente afectado fue 41 a 50 años con 31,1% y el sexo masculino (68,8%) 44% Accidentes en vehículos 50,9% de los casos evidenciaron fracturas del 2do-3er arco costal, 86,6% de los casos ameritaron drenaje torácico y 11% requirieron manejo en UTI. El TTS es una entidad seria, comprende fracturas de los 3 primeros arcos costales y/o fracturas de esternón y/o fracturas de escapula. Englobamos todas estas como TTS pues hay relación probada entre estas fracturas y traumas de alto impacto, causando lesiones potencialmente fatales. Consideramos la necesidad de redefinir el término de TTS, crear un protocolo de atención y estandarización para optimizar la atención del paciente lesionado.

To describe the incidence and management of severe thoracic trauma (STT) in General Surgery Service of Hospital "Dr. Domingo Luciani" during 2008-2009 period. A retrospective study descriptive, trasnversal. Patients diagnosed with severe thoracic trauma, (first, second or third rib fracture, sternal or scapular fracture or a combination of any), during January 2008 to December 2009. We reviewed, age, sex, traumatic event, radiologic images, hospitalization time, chest tube drainage, laboratory values and ICU admission. Group most affected was 41 to 50 years (31,1%) and males (68,8%). Traffic accidents caused 44% of trauma. In 50,9%, 2nd and 3rd rib fractures was present. 86,6% Needed chest tube dranage and 11% required ICU admission. The STT is a serious entity. It is defined by fracture of any of the 3 first ribs and/or sternal or scapular fracture. We included all these injuries as STT because there is a relationship between these fractures and high energy trauma, leading to potentially fatal consequences. We consider the need of redefining the STT term, creating an approach protocol and setting it up for optimizing the injured patient attention.

Penetrating chest injuries: a medicolegal analysis.

Penetrating injuries are one of the commonest methods of committing murder, of which penetrating injuries of the chest/heart are very serious and prove fatal in most of the cases (1). In a post mortem study of penetrating chest injuries at Lucknow, majority of the victims were adult male between 20-50 years of age. In majority of the cases injuries were caused by firearms usually a shot gun. Injuries by knives and daggers were also seen in few cases. Injuries were seen on the front of chest, predominantly on the left side, in majority of the cases. Lungs were damaged in all the cases. Heart; aorta & other thoracic organs were also injured in substantial number of cases. In the cases where heart was found damaged, the right ventricle was injured in majority of the cases. Two-third of the victims died within three hours after getting injuries, either on the spot or in the way to the hospital. All the cases of penetrating chest injuries were homicidal & personal rivalry was the single most common reason behind these deaths.

Trauma torácico: análise de 124 pacientes submetidos à toracotomia / Thoracic trauma: analysis of 124 patients who underwent thoracotomy

OBJETIVO: Analisar os pacientes submetidos à toracotomia para o tratamento de traumatismo torácico. MÉTODOS: Estudo retrospectivo por meio da análise de prontuários nos dois principais hospitais de referência para trauma em adultos desta cidade, por um período de cinco anos, interessando dados epidemiológicos, agente causal, indicações, tipo de incisão, classificação do escore anatômico do trauma, fatores prognósticos e a mortalidade. RESULTADOS: Foi analisado neste estudo 124 pacientes submetidos à toracotomia com idade média de 28 anos, tendo como o agente causal mais incidente a arma branca (68 por cento dos casos). A principal indicação da toracotomia foi hemotórax maciço com 50,7 por cento dos casos, seguido de choque cardiogênico ou hipovolêmico com 48,4 por cento. Ocorreram 28 óbitos (20,6 por cento), sendo que os pacientes com lesões de veia cava (cinco pacientes) e aorta (dois pacientes) tiveram uma mortalidade de 100 por cento. Observou-se uma maior mortalidade em pacientes com escore anatômico do trauma superior a 14 (p=0,004) e maior quantidade de sangue transfundido (p=0,090). CONCLUSÃO: O perfil do paciente que foi vítima de traumatismo torácico e submetido à toracotomia exploradora é o seguinte: jovem, do sexo masculino e vítima de trauma por arma branca. Os fatores que mais contribuíram para o êxito letal foram o elevado escore anatômico do trauma e a associação com lesões vasculares importantes, como da artéria aorta e veia cava.

OBJECTIVE: To analyze patients who underwent thoracotomy for the treatment of chest trauma in the City of Manaus. METHODS: We performed a retrospective study through analyzed records in the two main reference hospitals for trauma adults in this city during a period of 5 years. We considered for this study the epidemiological data, causal agent, type of incision, anatomical classification score of trauma, prognostic factors and mortality. RESULTS: We analyzed 124 patients who underwent thoracotomy with a mean age of 28 years. Stab wounds were the most common casual agent (68 percent). The main indication for thoracotomy was massive hemothorax with 50.7 percent of cases, followed by cardiogenic or hypovolemic shock with 48.4 percent. There were 28 deaths (20.6 percent). Patients with vena cava injuries (5 patients) and aorta lesions (2 patients) had 100 percent mortality rate. There was a higher mortality in patients with major index of trauma (p = 0004), and largest quantity of blood transfused (p = 0090). CONCLUSION: Thoracic trauma patients submitted to exploratory thoracotomy were young, males and victims of stab wound trauma. The most contributing death factors were the lethal anatomical score, more than 15 points, and the association with major vascular lesions, as the aorta and vena cava.

Blunt and penetrating thoracic trauma: management strategy and short-term outcome

To review our experience with blunt and penetrating chest injuries that required surgical interventions. Retrospective case series. Six general hospitals in Kuwait. One hundred fifty nine patients who underwent emergency surgery for thoracic trauma. Urgent thoracic surgical procedures [thoracotomy or sternotomy]. Pattern of injuries, indications for surgery, surgical approaches, short-term morbidity and mortality. One hundred fifty-nine patients [68 with blunt and 91 with penetrating injuries] underwent thoracotomy or sternotomy between January 1995 and December 2006. The mean age was 27 years [range: 2-70 years]. The causes of penetrating injuries were stab wounds [n = 65], gunshot wounds [n = 19] and iatrogenic [n = 7]. The causes of blunt thoracic injuries were motor vehicle accidents [n = 63] and fall from height [n = 5]. The indications for thoracotomy were hemorrhage [n = 115], airway disruption [n = 14], pericardial tamponade [n = 5], clotted hemothorax [n = 8] and diaphragmatic rupture [n = 17]. Major lung resections were performed in four patients [2.5%]. The morbidity was 10 / 159 [6%] and the mortality was 7 / 159 [4.4%]. The majority of deaths were due to adult respiratory distress syndrome [ARDS]. Prompt thoracotomy can be performed with minimal morbidity and mortality in cases of blunt and penetrating thoracic injuries. The complex pattern of such injuries requires a detailed assessment and management by a thoracic surgeon

Sobrevivência após acidentes de trânsito: impacto das variáveis clínicas e pré-hospitalares / Survival after motor vehicle crash: impact of clinical and prehospital variables / Sobrevida después de accidentes de tránsito: impacto de las variables clínicas y pre hospitalarias

OBJETIVO: Analisar as variáveis clínicas e pré-hospitalares associadas à sobrevivência de vítimas de acidente de trânsito. MÉTODOS: Estudo realizado no município de São Paulo, SP, de 1999 a 2003. Foram analisados dados de 175 pacientes, entre 12 e 65 anos, vitimados por acidente de trânsito. A Análise de Sobrevivência de Kaplan-Meier foi utilizada na abordagem dos resultados na cena do acidente com as vítimas de escore <11 segundo o Revised Trauma Score. As variáveis analisadas foram: sexo, idade, mecanismos do acidente, procedimentos de suporte básico e avançado realizados, parâmetros e flutuações do Revised Trauma Score, tempo consumido na fase pré-hospitalar e gravidade do trauma segundo o Injury Severity Score e a Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale. RESULTADOS: A análise identificou que as vítimas que tiveram menor probabilidade de sobrevivência durante todo período de internação hospitalar apresentaram: lesões graves no abdome, tórax ou membros inferiores, com flutuação negativa da freqüência respiratória e do Revised Trauma Score na fase pré-hospitalar e necessitaram de intervenções avançadas ou compressões torácicas. As lesões encefálicas foram associadas ao óbito tardio. CONCLUSÕES: O reconhecimento das variáveis envolvidas na sobrevivência de vítimas de acidentes de trânsito pode auxiliar na determinação de protocolos e na tomada de decisão para a realização de intervenções pré e intra-hospitalares e conseqüentemente maximizar a sobrevivência.

OBJECTIVE: To assess clinical and prehospital variables associated with survival of motor vehicle crash victims. METHODS: Study carried out in the city of São Paulo (Southeastern Brazil), from 1999 to 2003. Data from 175 patients, who were aged between 12 and 65 years and had been motor vehicle crash victims, were analyzed. Kaplan-Meier Survival Analysis was used to approach the results at the accident scene with victims scoring <11, according to the Revised Trauma Score. Variables analyzed were: sex, age, injury mechanisms, basic and advanced support procedures, Revised Trauma Score parameters and fluctuations, time elapsed in the prehospital phase and trauma severity according to the Injury Severity Score and Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale. RESULTS: Analysis revealed that victims who were less likely to survive during the hospitalization period showed serious lesions in the abdomen, thorax, or lower limbs, with negative fluctuation of respiratory frequency and Revised Trauma Score in the prehospital phase. In addition, they needed specialized interventions or thoracic compressions. Brain lesions were associated with late death. CONCLUSIONS: Recognition of variables involved in the survival of motor vehicle crash victims may help to determine protocols and to make decisions in order to perform pre- and in-hospital interventions and, consequently, maximize survival.

OBJETIVO: Analizar las variables clínicas y pre hospitalarias asociadas a la sobrevida de víctimas de accidentes del tránsito. MÉTODOS: Estudio realizado en el municipio de São Paulo (Sudeste de Brasil), de 1999 a 2003. Fueron analizados datos de 175 pacientes, entre 12 y 65 años, victimas de accidentes de tránsito. El análisis de Sobrevida de Kaplan-Meier fue utilizado en el abordaje de los resultados en la escena del accidente con las víctimas de score <11 segun el Revised Trauma Score. Las variables analizadas fueron: sexo, edad, mecanismos del accidente, procedimientos de soporte básico y avanzado realizados, parámetros y fluctuaciones del Revised Trauma Score, tiempo consumido en la fase pre hospitalaria y gravedad del trauma según el Injury Severity Score y la Maximum Abbreviated Injury Scale. RESULTADOS: El análisis identificó que la víctimas que tuvieron menor probabilidad de sobre vivencia durante todo el período de interacción hospitalaria presentaron: lesiones graves en el abdomen, tórax o miembros inferiores, con fluctuación negativa de la frecuencia respiratoria y del Revised Trauma Score en la fase pre hospitalaria y necesitaron de intervenciones avanzadas o compresiones torácicas. Las lesiones encefálicas fueron asociadas al óbito tardío. CONCLUSIONES: El reconocimiento de las variables involucradas en la sobrevida de víctimas de accidentes del tránsito puede auxiliar en la determinación de protocolos y en la toma de decisiones para la realización de intervenciones pre e intra-hospitalarias y consecuentemente maximizar la sobrevida.

Manejo de los seis grandes del trauma de tórax: segunda parte / Management of the six great of the thorax trauma: second part

Las lesiones torácicas que amenazan la vida se producen por el daño a las estructuras vitales que se encuentran en su interior. Con el propósito de exponer el diagnóstico y las medidas terapéuticas en entidades como la obstrucción de vía aérea, el taponamiento cardiaco y el tórax inestable, apoyado en las mejores pruebas encontradas en la literatura mediante una búsqueda en el periodo de junio de 2005 a octubre de 2006 realizada con el localizador de información en salud en las bases de datos en línea EBSCO, LILACS, Cochrane Library y Medline, esta última con el gestor personal de base de datos EndNote 7, así como en revistas especializadas, libros de consulta y, con el motor de búsqueda de Google, se evaluaron los trabajos que permitieron realizar recomendaciones soportadas por el nivel de evidencia clasificadas por la Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality.

The life threatening thoracic lesions are produced by the damage to the vital structures being inside them. Aimed at exposing the diagnosis and the therapeutical measures in entities such as the airways obstruction, cardiac tamponade and unstable thorax, supported by the best evidences found in literature through a search conducted from June 2005 to October 2006 with the health information localizer in the EBSCO, LILACS, Cochrane Library and Medline on-line databases (the latter was possible by using the EndNote 7 database personal manager), as well in specialized journals, consultation books, and with Google search engine, the papers that permitted to make recommendations supported by the level of evidence classified by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality were evaluated.