Predictors of mortality after craniotomy for geriatric traumatic brain injury.

BACKGROUND: With a sustained increase in the proportion of elderly trauma patients, geriatric traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a significant source of morbidity, mortality and resource utilization. The aim of our study was to assess the predictors of mortality in geriatric TBI patients who underwent craniotomy. METHODS: We performed a 4-year analysis of ACS-TQIP database (2016-2019) and included all geriatric trauma patients (≥65y) with isolated severe TBI who underwent craniotomy. We calculated 11- point modified frailty index (mFI) for patients. Our primary and secondary outcomes were mortality and unfavorable outcome, respectively. Multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify the predictors of outcomes. Patients with mFI ≥ 0.25 were defined as Frail, whereas patient with mFI of 0.08 or higher (<0.25) were identified as pre-frail; Non-frail patients were identified as mFI of <0.08. RESULTS: We analyzed data from 20,303 patients. The mortality rate was 17.7 % (3,587 patients). Having ≥ 2 concomitant types of intra-cranial hemorrhage (OR = 2.251, p < 0.001), and pre-hospital anticoagulant use (OR = 1.306, p < 0.001) increased the risks of mortality. Frailty, as a continuous variable, was not considered as a risk factor for mortality (p = 0.058) but after categorization, it was shown that compared to non-frails, patients with pre-frailty (OR = 1.946, p = 0.011) and frailty (OR = 1.786, p = 0.026) had increased risks of mortality. Higher mFI (OR = 4.841), age (OR = 1.034), ISS (OR = 1.052), having ≥ 2 concomitant types of intra-cranial hemorrhage (OR = 1.758), and use of anticoagulants (OR = 1.117) were significant risk factors for unfavorable outcomes (p < 0.001, for all). CONCLUSIONS: Having more than two types of intra-cranial hemorrhage and pre-hospital anticoagulant use were significant risk factors for mortality. The study's findings also suggest that frailty may not be a sufficient predictor of mortality after craniotomy in geriatric patients with TBI. However, frailty still affects the discharge disposition and favorable outcome. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III retrospective study.

Shock Index is a Stronger Predictor of Outcomes in Older Compared to Younger Patients.

INTRODUCTION: The shock index (SI) is a known predictor of unfavorable outcomes in trauma. This study seeks to examine and compare the SI values between geriatric patients and younger adults. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective study of the Trauma Quality Improvement Program database from 2017 to 2019. All patients≥ 25 y with injury severity score ≥ 16 were included. Age groups were defined as 25-44 y (group A), 45-64 y (group B), and ≥65 y (group C). SI was calculated for all patients. The primary outcome was mortality and secondary outcomes were need for blood transfusion and need for major surgical intervention (consisting angiography, exploratory laparotomy, and thoracotomy). RESULTS: A total of 244,943 patients were studied. The SI was highest in group A (0.82 ± 0.33) and lowest in group C (0.62 ± 0.30) (P < 0.001). Mortality rate of group C (17%) was significantly higher than group A (9.7%) and B (11.3%) (P < 0.001). In group A, each 0.1 increase in SI was associated with mortality (odds ratio [OR] = 1.079), need for blood transfusion (OR = 1.225) and need for major surgical intervention (OR = 1.347) (P < 0.001 for all). In group C, each 0.1 increase in SI was associated with mortality (OR = 1.126), need for blood transfusion (OR = 1.318), and need for major surgical intervention (OR = 1.648) (P < 0.001 for all). The area under the curve of SI was significantly higher in group C compared to other groups for needing a major surgical intervention and need for blood transfusion (P < 0.05 for both). CONCLUSIONS: These results highlight the significance of the SI as a valuable indicator in geriatric patients with severe trauma. The findings show that SI predicts outcomes in geriatrics more strongly than in younger counterparts.

Is there a need for fresh frozen plasma and platelet transfusion in trauma patients receiving submassive transfusion?

Background: Blood transfusions have become a vital intervention in trauma care. There are limited data on the safety and effectiveness of submassive transfusion (SMT), that is defined as receiving less than 10 units packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in the first 24 hours. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelet transfusions in patients undergoing SMT. Methods: This is a retrospective cohort, reviewing the Trauma Quality Improvement Program database spanning 3 years (2016 to 2018). Adult patients aged 18 years and older who had received at least 1 unit of PRBC within 24 hours were included in the study. We used a multivariate regression model to analyze the cut-off units of combined resuscitation (CR) (which included PRBCs along with at least one unit of FFP and/or platelets) that leads to survival improvement. Patients were then stratified into two groups: those who received PRBC alone and those who received CR. Propensity score matching was performed in a 1:1 ratio. Results: The study included 85 234 patients. Based on the multivariate regression model, transfusion of more than 3 units of PRBC with at least 1 unit of FFP and/or platelets demonstrated improved mortality compared with PRBC alone. Among 66 319 patients requiring SMT and >3 units of PRBCs, 25 978 received PRBC alone, and 40 341 received CR. After propensity matching, 4215 patients were included in each group. Patients administered CR had a lower rate of complications (15% vs 26%), acute respiratory distress syndrome (3% vs 5%) and acute kidney injury (8% vs 11%). Rates of sepsis and venous thromboembolism were similar between the two groups. Multivariate regression analysis indicated that patients receiving 4 to 7 units of PRBC alone had significantly higher ORs for mortality than those receiving CR. Conclusion: Trauma patients requiring more than 3 units of PRBCs who received CR with FFP and platelets experienced improved survival and reduced complications. Level of evidence: Level III retrospective study.

Fragmentation of Care After Geriatric Trauma: A Nationwide Analysis of outcomes and Predictors.

The health care system for the elderly is fragmented, that is worsened when readmission occurs to different hospitals. There is limited investigation into the impact of fragmentation on geriatric trauma patient outcomes. The aim of this study was to compare the outcomes following readmissions after geriatric trauma. The Nationwide Readmissions Database (2016-2017) was queried for elderly trauma patients (aged ≥65 years) readmitted due to any cause. Patients were divided into 2 groups according to readmission: index vs non-index hospital. Outcomes were 30 and 180-day complications, mortality, and the number of subsequent readmissions. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to analyze the independent predictors of fragmentation of care. A total of 36,176 trauma patients were readmitted, of which 3856 elderly patients (aged ≥65 years) were readmitted: index hospital (3420; 89%) vs non-index hospital (436; 11%). Following 1:2 propensity matching, elderly with non-index hospital readmission had higher rates of death and MI within 180 days (P = .01 and .02, respectively). They had statistically higher 30 and 180-day pneumonia (P < .01), CHF (P < .01), arrhythmias (P < .01), MI (P < .01), sepsis (P < .01), and UTI (P < .01). On multivariable binary logistic regression analysis, pneumonia (OR 1.70, P = .03), congestive heart failure (CHF) (OR 1.80, P = .03), female gender (OR .72, P = .04), and severe Head and Neck trauma (AIS≥3) (OR 1.50, P < .01) on index admission were independent predictors of fragmentation of care. While the increase in time to readmission (OR 1.01, P < .01) was also associated independently with non-index hospital admission. Fragmented care after geriatric trauma could be associated with higher mortality and complications.

Non-operative management of cirrhotic patients with acute calculous cholecystitis: How effective is it?

INTRODUCTION: Nonoperative management (NOM) of acute calculous cholecystitis (ACC) in patients with cirrhosis was proposed. We examined the outcomes of cirrhotic patients with ACC treated with cholecystectomy compared to NOM. METHODS: We analyzed the 2017-Nationwide Readmissions Database including cirrhotic patients with ACC. Patients were stratified: cholecystectomy, percutaneous cholecystostomy (PCT), and antibiotics only. PRIMARY OUTCOMES: complications, failure of NOM. SECONDARY OUTCOMES: mortality, length of stay (LOS), and charges. RESULTS: 3454 patients were identified. 1832 underwent cholecystectomy, 360 PCT, and 1262 were treated with antibiotics. PCT patients had higher mortality 16.9% vs. the antibiotics group 10.9% vs. cholecystectomy group 4.2%. PCT patients had longer LOS, but lower charges compared to the operative group. Failure of NOM was 28.2%. On regression, PCT was associated with mortality. CONCLUSION: ACC remains a morbid disease in cirrhosis patients. One in three failed NOM, had longer LOS, and higher mortality. Further studies are warranted to identify predictors of NOM failure. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III, prognostic.

Direct Peritoneal Resuscitation (DPR) Improves Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation (APACHE) IV and Acute Physiology Score When Used in Damage Control Laparotomies: Prospective Cohort Study on 37 Patients.

INTRODUCTION: Using direct peritoneal resuscitation (DPR) as an adjunct when managing patients undergoing damage control laparotomy (DCL) shows promising results. We report our initial experience in utilizing DPR when managing patients who underwent DCL for emergent surgery at the index operation. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We prospectively collected data on 37 patients between August 2020 to October 2021 who underwent DCL with open abdomens after the index operation and utilized DPR. DPR was performed using peritoneal lavage with DIANEAL PD-2-D 2.5% Ca 3.5 mEq/L at a rate of 400ml/hour. Patients' physiological scores and clinical outcomes were evaluated. RESULTS: 86% required DCL and DPR due to septic abdomen/bowel ischemia. The median (interquartile range [IQR]) age was 62 years (53-70); 62% were male, and median (IQR) body mass index was 30.0kg/m2 (25.5-38.4). On DPR initiation, median (IQR) APACHE-IV score was 48 (33-64) and median (IQR) Acute Physiology Score (APS) was 31 (18-54). After initiation, median (IQR) APACHE-IV score and median (IQR) APS were 39 (21-62) and 19 (11-56), respectively, and both showed significant improvement in survivors (p<0.05). Median (IQR) DPR duration was four days (2-8) and primary abdominal closure was achieved in 30 patients (81%). There were eight mortalities (21.6%) within 30 days postoperatively, of which seven were within 3-24 days due to uncontrolled sepsis/multiple organ failure. The most frequent complication was surgical-site infection recorded in 12 patients (32%). Twenty-four patients (67%) were discharged home/transferred to a rehab center/nursing home. CONCLUSION: DPR application showed significant improvement of APACHE-IV score and APS in patients with peritonitis/septic abdomen.

Saving the split: the benefits of VATS thymectomy.

BACKGROUND: With the advent of minimally invasive techniques, the standard approaches to many surgeries have changed. We compared the financial costs and health care outcomes between standard thymectomy via sternotomy and video assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS). METHODS: A 3-year review [2010-2012] of the National Inpatient Sample (NIS) was performed. All patients undergoing thymectomy were included. Patients undergoing VATS thymectomy were identified. Outcomes measured were hospital length of stay (LOS), hospital charges, and mortality. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to control for demographics and comorbidities. RESULTS: The results of 2,065 patients who underwent thymectomy were analyzed, of which 373 (18.1%) had VATS thymectomy and 1,692 (81.9%) had standard thymectomy. Mean age was 52.8±16, 42.5% were male, and 65.5% were Caucasian. There was a significant interval increase in number of patients undergoing VATS thymectomy (10% in 2010 vs. 19.2% in 2012, P<0.001). Patients undergoing standard thymectomy had longer hospital LOS (6.8±6.6 vs. 3.3d±3.4 d, P<0.001), hospital charges $88,838±$120,892 vs. $57,251±$54,929) and hospital mortality (0.9% vs. 0%, P=0.01). In multivariate analysis, thymectomy via sternotomy was independently associated with increased hospital LOS B =1.6 d, P<0.001) and charges (B = $13,041, P=0.041). CONCLUSIONS: Our study demonstrates decreased hospital length of stay and reduced hospital charges in patients undergoing VATS thymectomy compared to standard thymectomy. Our data demonstrates that the prevalence of VATS thymectomies is increasing, likely related to improved healthcare and financial outcomes.

Accuracy of Physical Examination, Ankle-Brachial Index, and Ultrasonography in the Diagnosis of Arterial Injury in Patients With Penetrating Extremity Trauma: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

BACKGROUND: Penetrating Extremity Trauma (PET) may result in arterial injury, a rare but limb- and life-threatening surgical emergency. Timely, accurate diagnosis is essential for potential intervention in order to prevent significant morbidity. OBJECTIVES: Using a systematic review/meta-analytic approach, we determined the utility of physical examination, Ankle-Brachial Index (ABI), and Ultrasonography (US) in the diagnosis of arterial injury in emergency department (ED) patients who have sustained PET. We applied a test-treatment threshold model to determine which evaluations may obviate CT Angiography (CTA). METHODS: We searched PubMed, Embase, and Scopus from inception to November 2016 for studies of ED patients with PET. We included studies on adult and pediatric subjects. We defined the reference standard to include CTA, catheter angiography, or surgical exploration. When low-risk patients did not undergo the reference standard, trials must have specified that patients were observed for at least 24 hours. We used the Quality Assessment Tool for Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) to evaluate bias and applicability of the included studies. We calculated positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+ and LR-) of physical examination ("hard signs" of vascular injury), US, and ABI. Using established CTA test characteristics (sensitivity = 96.2%, specificity = 99.2%) and applying the Pauker-Kassirer method, we developed a test-treatment threshold model (testing threshold = 0.14%, treatment threshold = 72.9%). RESULTS: We included eight studies (n = 2,161, arterial injury prevalence = 15.5%). Studies had variable quality with most at high risk for partial and double verification bias. Some studies investigated multiple index tests: physical examination (hard signs) in three studies (n = 1,170), ABI in five studies (n = 1,040), and US in four studies (n = 173). Due to high heterogeneity (I2  > 75%) of the results, we could not calculate LR+ or LR- for hard signs or LR+ for ABI. The weighted prevalence of arterial injury for ABI was 14.3% and LR- was 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.48-0.71) resulting in a posttest probability of 9% for arterial injury. Ultrasonography had weighted prevalence of 18.9%, LR+ of 35.4 (95% CI = 8.3-151), and LR- of 0.24 (95% CI = 0.08-0.72); posttest probabilities for arterial injury were 89% and 5% after positive or negative US, respectively. The posttest probability of arterial injury with positive US (89%) exceeded the CTA treatment threshold (72.9%). The posttest probabilities of arterial injury with negative US (5%) and normal ABI (9%) exceeded the CTA testing threshold (0.14%). Normal examination (no hard or soft signs) with normal ABI in combination had LR- of 0.01 (95% CI = 0.0-0.10) resulting in an arterial injury posttest probability of 0%. CONCLUSIONS: In PET patients, positive US may obviate CTA. In patients with a normal examination (no hard or soft signs) and a normal ABI, arterial injury can be ruled out. However, a normal ABI or negative US cannot independently exclude arterial injury. Due to high study heterogeneity, we cannot make recommendations when hard signs are present or absent or when ABI is abnormal. In these situations, one should use clinical judgment to determine the need for further observation, CTA or catheter angiography, or surgical exploration.

Improving mortality in trauma laparotomy through the evolution of damage control resuscitation: Analysis of 1,030 consecutive trauma laparotomies.

BACKGROUND: The aim of this study was to evaluate the related change in outcomes (mortality, complications) in patients undergoing trauma laparotomy (TL) with the implementation of damage control resuscitation (DCR). We hypothesized that the implementation of DCR in patients undergoing TL is associated with better outcomes. METHODS: We analyzed 1,030 consecutive patients with TL. Patients were stratified into three phases: pre-DCR (2006-2007), transient (2008-2009), and post-DCR (2010-2013). Resuscitation fluids (crystalloids and blood products), injury severity score (ISS), vital signs, and laboratory (hemoglobin, international normalized ratio, lactate) parameters were recorded. Regression analysis was performed after adjusting for age, ISS, laboratory and vital parameters, comorbidities, and resuscitation fluids to identify independent predictors for outcomes in each phase. RESULTS: Patient demographics and ISS remained the same throughout the three phases. There was a significant reduction in the volume of crystalloid (p = 0.001) and a concomitant increase in the blood product resuscitation (p = 0.04) in the post-DCR phase compared to the pre-DCR and transient DCR phases. Volume of crystalloid resuscitation was an independent predictor of mortality in the pre-DCR (OR [95% CI]: 1.071 [1.03-1.1], p = 0.01) and transient (OR [95% CI]: 1.05 [1.01-1.14], p = 0.01) phases; however, it was not associated with mortality in the post-DCR phase (OR [95% CI]:1.01 [0.96-1.09], p = 0.1). Coagulopathy (p = 0.01) and acidosis (p = 0.02) were independently associated with mortality in all three phases. CONCLUSION: The implementation of DCR was associated with improved outcome in patients undergoing TL. There was a decrease in the use of damage control laparotomy, with a decrease in the use of crystalloid and an increase in the use of blood products. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Prognostic study, level III.

Levetiracetam Prophylaxis for Post-traumatic Brain Injury Seizures is Ineffective: A Propensity Score Analysis.

INTRODUCTION: Early seizures after severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) have a reported incidence of up to 15 %. Prophylaxis for early seizures using 1 week of phenytoin is considered standard of care for seizure prevention. However, many centers have substituted the anticonvulsant levetiracetam without good data on the efficacy of this approach. Our hypothesis was that the treatment with levetiracetam is not effective in preventing early post-traumatic seizures. METHODS: All trauma patients sustaining a TBI from January 2007 to December 2009 at an urban level-one trauma center were retrospectively analyzed. Seizures were identified from a prospectively gathered morbidity database and anticonvulsant use from the pharmacy database. Statistical comparisons were made by Chi square, t tests, and logistic regression modeling. Patients who received levetiracetam prophylaxis were matched 1:1 using propensity score matching with those who did not receive the drug. RESULTS: 5551 trauma patients suffered a TBI during the study period, with an overall seizure rate of 0.7 % (39/5551). Of the total population, 1795 were diagnosed with severe TBI (Head AIS score 3-5). Seizures were 25 times more likely in the severe TBI group than in the non-severe group [2.0 % (36/1795) vs. 0.08 % (3/3756); OR 25.6; 95 % CI 7.8-83.2; p < 0.0001]. Of the patients who had seizures after severe TBI, 25 % (9/36) received pharmacologic prophylaxis with levetiracetam, phenytoin, or fosphenytoin. In a matched cohort by propensity scores, no difference was seen in seizure rates between the levetiracetam group and no-prophylaxis group (1.9 vs. 3.4 %, p = 0.50). CONCLUSIONS: In this propensity score-matched cohort analysis, levetiracetam prophylaxis was ineffective in preventing seizures as the rate of seizures was similar whether patients did or did not receive the drug. The incidence of post-traumatic seizures in severe TBI patients was only 2.0 % in this study; therefore we question the benefit of routine prophylactic anticonvulsant therapy in patients with TBI.

Emergency General Surgery in the Elderly: Too Old or Too Frail?

BACKGROUND: Assessment of operative risk in geriatric patients undergoing emergency general surgery (EGS) is challenging. Frailty is an established measure for risk assessment in elective surgical cases. Emerging literature suggests the superiority of frailty measurements to chronological age in predicting outcomes. The aim of this study was to assess the outcomes in elderly patients undergoing EGS using an established Rockwood frailty index. STUDY DESIGN: We prospectively measured preadmission frailty in all geriatric (aged 65 years and older) patients undergoing EGS at our institution during a 2-year period. Frailty index (FI) was calculated using the modified 50-variable Rockwood Preadmission FI. Frail patients were defined by FI ≥ 0.25. Outcomes measures were in-hospital complications, development of major complications, and mortality. Multivariate regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total of 220 patients were enrolled, of which 82 (37%) were frail. Frailty index score did not correlate with age (R = 0.64; R(2) = 0.53; p = 0.1) and poorly correlated with American Society of Anesthesiologists score (R = 0.51; R(2) = 0.44; p = 0.045). Thirty-five percent (n = 77) of patients had postoperative complications and 19% (n = 42) had major complications. Frailty index was an independent predictor for development of in-hospital complications (odds ratio = 2.13; 95% CI, 1.09-4.16; p = 0.02) and major complications (odds ratio = 3.87; 95% CI, 1.69-8.84; p = 0.001). Age and American Society of Anesthesiologists score were not predictive of postoperative and major complications. Our FI model had 80% sensitivity, 72% specificity, and area under the curve of 0.75 in predicting complications in geriatric patients undergoing EGS. The overall mortality rate was 3.2% (n = 7) and all patients who died were frail. CONCLUSIONS: Frailty index independently predicts postoperative complications, major complications, and hospital length of stay in elderly patients undergoing emergency general surgery. Use of FI will provide insight into the hospital course of elderly patients, allowing for identification of patients in need and more efficient allocation of hospital resources.

Injury prevention programs against distracted driving among students.

BACKGROUND: Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and nonfatal injury among young adults. The aims of this study were to assess the magnitude of distracted driving (DD) among students and to examine the effectiveness of awareness campaign against DD. We hypothesized that DD is prevalent among students and educational efforts such as DD awareness campaign can effectively reduce it. METHODS: This study was conducted within the University of Arizona that has a student enrollment of 42,000 students. We conducted our prospective interventional study in four phases at the university campus. Phase 1 involved 1-week preintervention observation, Phase 2 involved 1-week intervention, Phase 3 involved 1-week postintervention observation, and Phase 4 involved 1-week 6-month postintervention observation. We used a combination of e-mails, pamphlets, interactive sessions, and banners as intervention tools in student union. Our primary outcome was the prevalence of DD before, after, and 6 months after intervention. RESULTS: A total of 47,764 observations (before, 14,844; after, 17,939; 6 months after, 14,981) were performed. During the study period, overall rate of DD rate among the students was 8.8 (5.4) per 100 drivers (texting, 4.8 [3.7] per 100 drivers; talking, 3.9 [2.0] per 100 drivers).The baseline rate of DD among students during the phase one was 9.0 (1.2) per 100 drivers (texting, 4.8 [1.7] per 100 drivers; talking, 4.1 [1.1] per 100 drivers). Following intervention, there was a 32% significant reduction in overall DD (9.0 [1.2] vs. 6.1 [1.7], p < 0.001) in the immediate postintervention phase; however, the rate of DD returned to baseline at 6 months after intervention and trended toward increase (9.0 [1.2] vs. 11.1 [8.4], p = 0.34). CONCLUSION: DD is prevalent among university students. Following a comprehensive preventive campaign against DD, there was a 32% reduction in the rate of DD in the immediate postintervention period. However, a single episode of intervention did not have a sustainable preventive effect on the DD, and the rate increased to the baseline at 6-month follow-up. Targeting DD with a successful injury prevention campaign with repeated boosters may decrease its prevalence among the students.

Identifying the broken heart: predictors of mortality and morbidity in suspected blunt cardiac injury.

BACKGROUND: Blunt cardiac injury (BCI) is an infrequent but potentially fatal finding in thoracic trauma. Its clinical presentation is highly variable and patient characteristics and injury pattern have never been described in trauma patients. The aim of this study was to identify predictors of mortality in BCI patients. METHODS: We performed an 8-year retrospective analysis of all trauma patients diagnosed with BCI at our Level 1 trauma center. Patients older than 18 years, blunt chest trauma, and a suspected diagnosis of BCI were included. BCI was diagnosed based on the presence of electrocardiography (EKG), echocardiography, biochemical cardiac markers, and/or radionuclide imaging studies. Elevated troponin I was defined as more than 2 recordings of greater than or equal to .2. Abnormal EKG findings were defined as the presence of bundle branch block, ST segment, and t-wave abnormalities. Univariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed. RESULTS: A total of 117 patients with BCI were identified. The mean age was 51 ± 22 years, 65% were male, mean systolic blood pressure was 93 ± 65, and overall mortality rate was 44%. Patients who died were more likely to have a lactate greater than 2.5 (68% vs 31%, P = .02), hypotension (systolic blood pressure < 90) (86% vs 14%, P = .001), and elevated troponin I (86% vs 11%, P = .01). There was no difference in the rib fracture (58% vs 56%, P = .8), sternal fracture (11% vs 21%, P = .2), and abnormal EKG (89% vs 90%, P = .6) findings. Hypotension and lactate greater than 2.5 were the strongest predictors of mortality in BCI. CONCLUSIONS: BCI remains an important diagnostic and management challenge. However, once diagnosed resuscitative therapy focused on correction of hypotension and lactate may prove beneficial. Although the role of troponin in diagnosing BCI remains controversial, elevated troponin may have prognostic significance.

The use of whole body computed tomography scans in pediatric trauma patients: Are there differences among adults and pediatric centers?

INTRODUCTION: Whole body CT (WBCT) scan is known to be associated with significant radiation risk especially in pediatric trauma patients. The aim of this study was to assess the use WBCT scan across trauma centers for the management of pediatric trauma patients. METHODS: We performed a two year (2011-2012) retrospective analysis of the National Trauma Data Bank. Pediatric (age≤18years) trauma patients managed in level I or II adult or pediatric trauma centers with a head, neck, thoracic, or abdominal CT scan were included. WBCT scan was defined as CT scan of the head, neck, thorax, and abdomen. Patients were stratified into two groups: patients managed in adult centers and patients managed in designated pediatric centers. Outcome measure was use of WBCT. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed. RESULTS: A total of 30,667 pediatric trauma patients were included of which; 38.3% (n=11,748) were managed in designated pediatric centers. 26.1% (n=8013) patients received a WBCT. The use of WBCT scan was significantly higher in adult trauma centers in comparison to pediatric centers (31.4% vs. 17.6%, p=0.001). There was no difference in mortality rate between the two groups (2.2% vs. 2.1%, p=0.37). After adjusting for all confounding factors, pediatric patients managed in adult centers were 1.8 times more likely to receive a WBCT compared to patients managed in pediatric centers (OR [95% CI]: 1.8 [1.3-2.1], p=0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Variability exists in the use of WBCT scan across trauma centers with no difference in patient outcomes. Pediatric patients managed in adult trauma centers were more likely to be managed with WBCT, increasing their risk for radiation without a difference in outcomes. Establishing guidelines for minimizing the use of WBCT across centers is warranted.

Injury prevention programs against distracted driving: Are they effective?

INTRODUCTION: Distracted driving (talking and/or texting) is a growing public safety problem, with increasing incidence among adult drivers. The aim of this study was to identify the incidence of distracted driving (DD) among health care providers and to create awareness against DD. We hypothesized that distracted driving is prevalent among health care providers and a preventive campaign against distracted driving would effectively decrease distracted driving among health care providers. METHODS: We performed a 4-phase prospective interventional study of all health care providers at our level 1 trauma center. Phase 1: one week of pre-intervention observation; phase 2: one week of intervention; phase 3: one week of postintervention observation; and phase 4: one week of 6 months of postintervention observation. Observations were performed outside employee parking garage at the following time intervals: 6:30-8:30 a.m., 4:40-5:30 p.m., and 6:30-7:30 p.m. Intervention included an e-mail survey, pamphlets and banners in the hospital cafeteria, and a postintervention survey. Hospital employees were identified with badges and scrubs, employees exiting through employee gate, and parking pass on the car. Outcome measure was incidence of DD pre, post, and 6 months postintervention. RESULTS: A total of 15,416 observations (pre: 6,639, post: 4,220, 6 months post: 4,557) and 520 survey responses were collected. The incident of DD was 11.8% among health care providers. There was a significant reduction in DD in each time interval of observation between pre- and postintervention. On subanalysis, there was a significant decrease in talking (P = .0001) and texting (P = .01) while driving postintervention compared to pre-intervention. In the survey, 35.5% of respondents admitted to DD and 4.5% respondents were involved in an accident due to DD. We found that 77% respondents felt more informed after the survey and 91% respondents supported a state legislation against DD. The reduction in the incidence of DD postintervention was sustained even at 6-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: There was a 32% reduction in the incidence of distracted driving postintervention, which remained low even at 6-month follow-up. Implementation of an effective injury prevention campaign could reduce the incidence of distracted driving nationally.

Metoprolol improves survival in severe traumatic brain injury independent of heart rate control.

BACKGROUND: Multiple prior studies have suggested an association between survival and beta-blocker administration in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (TBI). However, it is unknown whether this benefit of beta-blockers is dependent on heart rate control. The aim of this study was to assess whether rate control affects survival in patients receiving metoprolol with severe TBI. Our hypothesis was that improved survival from beta-blockade would be associated with a reduction in heart rate. METHODS: We performed a 7-y retrospective analysis of all blunt TBI patients at a level-1 trauma center. Patients aged >16 y with head abbreviated injury scale 4 or 5, admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU) from the operating room or emergency room (ER), were included. Patients were stratified into two groups: metoprolol and no beta-blockers. Using propensity score matching, we matched the patients in two groups in a 1:1 ratio controlling for age, gender, race, admission vital signs, Glasgow coma scale, injury severity score, mean heart rate monitored during ICU admission, and standard deviation of heart rate during the ICU admission. Our primary outcome measure was mortality. RESULTS: A total of 914 patients met our inclusion criteria, of whom 189 received beta-blockers. A propensity-matched cohort of 356 patients (178: metoprolol and 178: no beta-blockers) was created. Patients receiving metoprolol had higher survival than those patients who did not receive beta-blockers (78% versus 68%; P = 0.04); however, there was no difference in the mean heart rate (89.9 ± 13.9 versus 89.9 ± 15; P = 0.99). Nor was there a difference in the mean of standard deviation of the heart rates (14.7 ± 6.3 versus 14.4 ± 6.5; P = 0.65) between the two groups. In Kaplan-Meier survival analysis, patients who received metoprolol had a survival advantage (P = 0.011) compared with patients who did not receive any beta-blockers. CONCLUSIONS: Our study shows an association with improved survival in patients with severe TBI receiving metoprolol, and this effect appears to be independent of any reduction in heart rate. We suggest that beta-blockers should be administered to all severe TBI patients irregardless of any perceived beta-blockade effect on heart rate.

Trauma center variation in the management of pediatric patients with blunt abdominal solid organ injury: a national trauma data bank analysis.

BACKGROUND: Nonoperative management of hemodynamically stable children with Solid Organ Injury (SOI) has become standard of care. The aim of this study is to identify differences in management of children with SOI treated at Adult Trauma Centers (ATC) versus Pediatric Trauma Centers (PTC). We hypothesized that patients treated at ATC would undergo more procedures than PTC. METHODS: Patients younger than 18 years old with isolated SOI (spleen, liver, kidney) who were treated at level I-II ATC or PTC were identified from the 2011-2012 National Trauma Data Bank. The primary outcome measure was the incidence of operative management. Data was analyzed using multivariate logistic regression analysis. Procedures were defined as surgery or transarterial embolization (TAE). RESULTS: 6799 children with SOI (spleen: 2375, liver: 2867, kidney: 1557) were included. Spleen surgery was performed more frequently at ATC than PTC {101 (7.7%) vs. 52 (4.9%); P=0.007}. After adjusting for potential confounders (grade of injury, age, gender and injury severity score), admission at ATC was associated with higher odds of splenic surgery (OR: 1.5, 95% CI: 1.02-2.25; p=0.03). 11 and 8 children underwent kidney and liver operations respectively. TAE was performed in 17 patients with splenic, 34 with liver and 14 with kidney trauma. There was no practice variation between ATC and PTC regarding kidney and liver operations or TAE incidence. CONCLUSIONS: Operative management for SOI was more often performed at ATC. The presence of significant disparity in the management of children with splenic injuries justifies efforts to use these surgeries as a reported national quality indicator for trauma programs.

Seasonal Variation in Emergency General Surgery.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to assess the seasonal variation in emergency general surgery (EGS) admissions. BACKGROUND: Seasonal variation in medical conditions is well established; however, its impact on EGS cases remains unclear. METHODS: The National Inpatient Sample (NIS) database was queried over an 8-year period (2004-2011) for all patients with diagnosis of acute appendicitis, acute cholecystitis, and diverticulitis. Elective admissions were excluded. The following data for each admission were recorded: age, sex, race, admission month, major operative procedure, hospital region, and mortality. Seasons were defined as follows: Spring (March, April, May), Summer (June, July, August), Fall (September, October, November), and Winter (December, January, February). X11 procedure and spectral analysis were performed to confirm seasonal variation. RESULTS: A total of 63,911,033 admission records were evaluated of which 493,569 were appendicitis, 395,838 were cholecystitis, and 412,163 were diverticulitis. Seasonal variation is confirmed in EGS (F = 159.12, P < 0.0001) admissions. In the subanalysis, seasonal variation was found in acute appendicitis (F = 119.62, P < 0.0001), acute cholecystitis (F = 37.13, P < 0.0001), and diverticulitis (F = 69.90, P < 0.0001). The average monthly EGS admission in Winter was 11,322 ± 674. The average monthly EGS admission in Summer was higher than that of Winter by 13.6% (n = 1542; 95% CI: 1180-1904, P < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Hospitalization due to EGS adheres to a consistent cyclical pattern, with more admissions occurring during the Summer months. Although the reasons for this variability are unknown, this information may be useful for hospital resource reallocation and staffing.

Outcomes in Trauma Patients with Isolated Epidural Hemorrhage: A Single-Institution Retrospective Cohort Study.

The type, location, and size of intracranial hemorrhage are known to be associated with variable outcomes in patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI). The aim of our study was to assess the outcomes in patients with isolated epidural hemorrhage (EDH) based on the location of EDH. We performed a 3-year (2010-2012) retrospective chart review of the patients with TBI in our level 1 trauma center. Patients with an isolated EDH on initial head CT scan were included. Patients were divided into four groups based on the location of EDH: frontal, parietal, temporal, and occipital. Differences in demographics and outcomes between the four groups were assessed. Outcome measures were progression on repeat head CT and neurosurgical intervention (NI). A total of 76 patients were included in this study. The mean age was 20.6 ± 15.2 years, 68.4 per cent were male, median Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) score 15 (13-15), and median head Abbreviated Injury Scale score was 3 (2-4). About 32.9 per cent patients (n = 25) had frontal EDH, 26.3 per cent (n = 20) had temporal EDH, 10.5 per cent (n = 8) had occipital EDH, while the remaining 30.3 per cent (n = 23) had parietal EDH. The overall progression rate was 21.1 per cent (n = 12) and NI rate was 29 per cent (n = 22). There was no difference in the outcome of patients based on location of EDH. Patients with NI had a longer hospital length of stay (P = 0.02) and longer intensive care unit length of stay (P = 0.05). The incidence of isolated EDH is low in patients with blunt TBI. Patients with isolated EDH undergoing NI have longer hospital stays compared to patients without NI. Further investigation is warranted to identify factors associated with need for NI and adverse outcomes in the cohort of patients with isolated EDH.