Factors related to clinical outcomes in blunt thoracic injuries

Abstract

Objectives: This study aims to reduce mortality and morbidity by analyzing the factors associated with blunt chest trauma.

Methods: In this study, 1020 patients with blunt thoracic trauma were analyzed retrospectively. Major surgeries, complications, admission to intensive care unit, intubation, mortality, prolonged hospital stay were considered poor clinical outcomes. Independent variables were compared with clinical outcomes and analyzed.

Results: The mean age was 52.7 ± 19.1. Complications (p = 0.028) and mortality (p < 0.001) were higher in patients aged 65 years and older than those aged 65 years and younger. Severe chest wall injuries, hemopneumothorax, and pulmonary contusions were associated with poor clinical outcomes (OR = 2474, p = 0.001, OR = 2229, p < 0.001 and OR = 2229, p < 0.001, respectively). The variable most related to poor clinical outcomes was New Injury Severity Score (p < 0.001, OR = 8.37).

Conclusions: The most associated factor with poor clinical outcomes was injury severity. Prompt treatment of blunt chest trauma with timely chest tube thoracostomy or surgical treatment when necessary, optimal pain control, and chest physiotherapy will reduce mortality.

Keywords: Blunt injuries; Chest wall; Clinical outcomes; Thoracic injuries; Trauma.