Injury
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Seasonality of pediatric trauma has been previously described, although the association of season with hour of presentation is less understood. Both factors have potential implications for resource allocation and team preparedness. ⋯ These data demonstrate the significant seasonal and temporal variation within pediatric trauma. These findings could be used to inform improvements in emergency response, and resource allocation in particular.
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Motor vehicle crashes (MVCs) are a leading cause of traumatic death and injury. Police traffic stops (PTS) are a common approach to enforcing motor vehicle laws intended to prevent MVCs. However, it is unclear which types of PTS are most effective. This study examined the relationship of PTS subtypes among municipal police patrols on non-interstate roads and MVCs and MVC-related deaths. ⋯ Retrospective epidemiological study, level IV.
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An update on the epidemiology of distal radius fractures in the United States is necessary, particularly as the elderly population grows. Additionally, age and frailty have been associated with complications following surgical fixation of DRFs. Herein, we utilize the National Trauma Data Bank, a robust nationwide resource, to investigate the relationship between demographics, comorbidities, injury and fracture characteristics, and admission details. ⋯ High-energy mechanisms and risk factors for poor skin quality were significantly associated with open fractures. mFI-5 was an independent risk factor for longer length of stay and non-routine discharges in patients of all ages, despite controlling for other comorbidities, unrelated complications, and mechanism of injury. Trauma mechanism was an independent risk factor for prolonged length of stay only, particularly in patients younger than 65 years of age.
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- A 31yo female is involved in a fall while climbing on some wet rocks. She was brought into the emergency department and was found to have suffered a closed fracture of the right fibula with a deltoid ligament injury. Distal neurovascular exam was normal. ⋯ SOCIAL HISTORY: - married with one child and works as an administrative assistant for a manufacturing company; she is a social drinker and nonsmoker. Has a history of using some recreational drugs but none for 10 years. She is moderately active.
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Most major trauma admissions are older adults, many of whom are living with frailty - a recognised risk factor for post-injury mortality. ⋯ Frailty predicts long-term mortality in older trauma. Our findings have implications for clinician-patient discussions of prognosis and therapy goals. Furthermore, our results lend support to the routine provision of geriatrician input in trauma pathways.