J Trauma
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Epidural hematoma (EDH) is a major traumatic brain injury and a potentially life-threatening condition, with the mortality rate in the young age group varying across studies. The aim of this analysis was to investigate the magnitude of traumatic EDH in young patients aged 0 year to 24 years in Queensland, Australia. ⋯ The results indicate that the Injury Severity Score adjusted in-hospital mortality rates for young patients with EDH were 4.8%. Given the limited information on morbidity resulting from EDH, further analysis to examine modifiable factors for better management and to evaluate survivor's long-term health outcomes via a longitudinal follow-up study is warranted.
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To determine whether preinjury statin use is associated with survival and functional recovery in older adult victims of moderate/severe head trauma. ⋯ Preinjury statin use in older adult traumatic brain injury victims is associated with reduced risk of death and improved functional recovery at 12 months postinjury. Individuals with cardiovascular comorbidities lose this benefit of premorbid statin use. Statins, as possible protective agents in head trauma, warrant further study.
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Temporary abdominal closure (TAC) is often performed after an open abdomen to prevent postoperative complications. Reducing the time of TAC and performing a skin grafting as early as possible would improve the outcome of open abdomen. This study was designed to evaluate the effects of different TAC materials and topically applied exogenous growth factors on the growth of granulation tissue covered on the wound areas after the open abdomen. ⋯ Polypropylene mesh could promote the growth of granulation tissue after the open abdomen. Topical application of rhGH or rbFGF further hastens the process, with the effect of rbFGF being the greatest.
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There is a national shortage of organs available for transplantation. Implementation of preset donor management goals (DMGs) to improve outcomes is recommended, but uniform practices and data are lacking. We hypothesized that meeting DMGs before organ procurement would result in more organs transplanted per donor (OTPD). ⋯ Meeting DMGs before procurement resulted in more OTPD. Donor factors and critical care end points are independent predictors of organ yield. Prospective studies are needed to determine the true impact of each DMG on the number and function of transplanted organs.
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This study summarizes orthopedic injuries sustained in motorcycle collisions in patients presenting to a Level I trauma center. ⋯ Motorcycle collisions frequently involve patients in their working prime, thus placing substantial burden on the individual and society. Although these patients must continue to receive Level I trauma care, strengthened prevention and improved education efforts are warranted.