[ evaluation of base deficit as the predictive agent of mortality in geriatric trauma]

ABSTRACT

Base deficit is a well-characterized feature of occult tissue hypo-perfusion. However, its cut off point value for mortality in geriatric trauma has not been determined. In this study, the prediction value of base deficit and its cut off point were evaluated in old aged patients. In a prospective study, 300 old age [>=65 year] patients with trauma referred to All-Zahra hospital of Isfahan were studied. In each patient, arterial blood gas was taken and base deficit was checked. Risk factors of base deficit changes were determined. Patients were followed until death or discharge. The predictive probability of significant variables of mortality was tested by regression analysis. P value less than 0.05 was considered significant. Our results showed that in stable old aged traumatic patients base deficit was the only significant predictor of death [p<0.01]. A cut off value of 2.55 mmol/L had the best accuracy. Pelvis-AIS, GCS and cardiac disease were significant coefficient of base deficit changes [p<0.05]. Base deficit changes in range of 2.55-3 in old aged traumatic patients indicates occult tissue hypo-perfusion and increased mortality