Treatments for blunt chest trauma and their impact on patient outcomes and health service delivery

Systematic review of systematic reviews for effectiveness of internal fixation for flail chest and rib fractures in adults

OBJECTIVES

Multiple systematic reviews have reported on the impact of rib fracture fixation in the presence of flail chest and multiple rib fractures, however this practice remains controversial. Our aim is to synthesise the effectiveness of surgical rib fracture fixation as evidenced by systematic reviews.

DESIGN

A systematic search identified systematic reviews comparing effectiveness of rib fracture fixation with non-operative management of adults with flail chest or unifocal non-flail rib fractures. MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and Science Citation Index were last searched 17 March 2017. Risk of bias was assessed using the Risk Of Bias In Systematic reviews (ROBIS) tool. The primary outcome was duration of mechanical ventilation.

RESULTS

Twelve systematic reviews were included, consisting of 3 unique randomised controlled trials and 19 non-randomised studies. Length of mechanical ventilation was shorter in the fixation group compared with the non-operative group in flail chest; pooled estimates ranged from -4.52 days, 95% CI (-5.54 to -3.5) to -7.5 days, 95% CI (-9.9 to -5.5). Pneumonia, length of hospital and intensive care unit stay all showed a statistically significant improvement in favour of fixation for flail chest; however, all outcomes in favour of fixation had substantial heterogeneity. There was no statistically significant difference between groups in mortality. Two systematic reviews included one non-randomised studies of unifocal non-flail rib fracture population; due to limited evidence the benefits with surgery are uncertain.

CONCLUSIONS

Synthesis of the reviews has shown some potential improvement in patient outcomes with flail chest after fixation. For future review updates, meta-analysis for effectiveness may need to take into account indications and timing of surgery as a subgroup analysis to address clinical heterogeneity between primary studies. Further robust evidence is required before conclusions can be drawn of the effectiveness of surgical fixation for flail chest and in particular, unifocal non-flail rib fractures.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42016053494.

Development of a blunt chest injury care bundle: An integrative review

BACKGROUND

Blunt chest injuries (BCI) are associated with high rates of morbidity and mortality. There are many interventions for BCI which may be able to be combined as a care bundle for improved and more consistent outcomes.

OBJECTIVE

To review and integrate the BCI management interventions to inform the development of a BCI care bundle.

METHODS

A structured search of the literature was conducted to identify studies evaluating interventions for patients with BCI. Databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed and Scopus were searched from 1990-April 2017. A two-step data extraction process was conducted using pre-defined data fields, including research quality indicators. Each study was appraised using a quality assessment tool, scored for level of evidence, then data collated into categories. Interventions were also assessed using the APEASE criteria then integrated to develop a BCI care bundle.

RESULTS

Eighty-one articles were included in the final analysis. Interventions that improved BCI outcomes were grouped into three categories; respiratory intervention, analgesia and surgical intervention. Respiratory interventions included continuous positive airway pressure and high flow nasal oxygen. Analgesia interventions included regular multi-modal analgesia and paravertebral or epidural analgesia. Surgical fixation was supported for use in moderate to severe rib fractures/BCI. Interventions supported by evidence and that met APEASE criteria were combined into a BCI care bundle with four components: respiratory adjuncts, analgesia, complication prevention, and surgical fixation.

CONCLUSIONS

The key components of a BCI care bundle are respiratory support, analgesia, complication prevention including chest physiotherapy and surgical fixation.

Development and Acceptability Assessment of a Self-Management Intervention to Prevent Acute to Chronic Pain Transition after Major Lower Extremity Trauma

PURPOSE

Transition from acute to chronic pain often occurs after major lower extremity trauma. Chronic pain has been found to negatively affect daily functioning, including the capacity to work and quality of life. Empirical data and an acceptability assessment were used to develop a self-management intervention aimed at preventing acute to chronic pain transition after major lower extremity trauma (i.e., iPACT-E-Trauma).

METHODS

Evidence from previous studies on preventive self-management interventions, combined with a biopsychosocial conceptual framework and clinical knowledge, helped define the key features of the preliminary version. Then a mixed-methods design was used to assess the acceptability of iPACT-E-Trauma by clinicians and patients.

RESULTS

The key features of the preliminary version of iPACT-E-Trauma were assessed as acceptable to very acceptable by clinicians and patients. After clinician assessment, intervention activities were simplified and session duration was reduced. Patient acceptability assessment of iPACT-E-Trauma led to the tailoring of key intervention features, based on determinants such as pain intensity and the implementation of self-management behaviors between intervention sessions. Web-based sessions were also developed to facilitate iPACT-E-Trauma delivery.

CONCLUSION

This study outlines the process involved in the development of an intervention to prevent chronic pain in patients with lower extremity trauma. Relevant information is provided to nurses and interdisciplinary teams on a self-management intervention to prevent the transition from acute to chronic pain in the trauma population.

Trauma in the elderly patient

Major Trauma Centres and Emergency Departments are treating an increasing number of elderly trauma patients in the UK. Elderly patients, defined as those over the age of 65 years, are more susceptible to injury from lesser mechanisms of trauma than younger adults. The number of elderly trauma cases is rising yearly, accounting for >25% of all major trauma nationally. The elderly have different physiological reserves and a different response to trauma due to premorbid frailty, co-existing conditions and prescribed medication. These factors need to be appreciated in trauma triaging, radiological assessment and clinical management. A lower threshold for trauma-call activation is recommended, including a lower threshold for advanced imaging. We will review general principles of trauma in the elderly, outline injury patterns in this age group and illustrate the radiological features per anatomical site, from head to pelvis and the extremities. We advocate using contrast-enhanced computed tomography as the primary diagnostic imaging modality as concern about intravenous contrast agent-induced nephropathy is relatively minor. Prompt investigation and diagnosis leads to timely appropriate treatment, therefore the radiologist can discerningly improve morbidity and mortality in this vulnerable group.

A Hybrid Web-Based and In-Person Self-Management Intervention Aimed at Preventing Acute to Chronic Pain Transition After Major Lower Extremity Trauma: Feasibility and Acceptability of iPACT-E-Trauma

Background

A transition from acute to chronic pain frequently occurs after major lower extremity trauma. While the risk factors for developing chronic pain in this population have been extensively studied, research findings on interventions aiming to prevent chronic pain in the trauma context are scarce. Therefore, we developed a hybrid, Web-based and in-person, self-management intervention to prevent acute to chronic pain transition after major lower extremity trauma (iPACT-E-Trauma).

Objective

This study aimed to assess the feasibility and acceptability of iPACT-E-Trauma.

Methods

Using a descriptive design, the intervention was initiated at a supra-regional level-1 trauma center. Twenty-eight patients ≥18 years old with major lower extremity trauma, presenting with moderate to high pain intensity 24 hours post-injury were recruited. Feasibility assessment was two-fold: 1) whether the intervention components could be provided as planned to ≥80% of participants and 2) whether ≥80% of participants could complete the intervention. The rates for both these variables were calculated. The E-Health Acceptability Questionnaire and the Treatment Acceptability and Preference Questionnaire were used to assess acceptability. Mean scores were computed to determine the intervention’s acceptability.

Results

More than 80% of participants received the session components relevant to their condition. However, the Web pages for session 2, on the analgesics prescribed, were accessed by 71% of participants. Most sessions were delivered according to the established timeline for ≥80% of participants. Session 3 and in-person coaching meetings had to be provider earlier for ≥35% of participants. Session duration was 30 minutes or less on average, as initially planned. More than 80% of participants attended sessions and <20% did not apply self-management behaviors relevant to their condition, with the exception of deep breathing relaxation exercises which was not applied by 40% of them. Web and in-person sessions were assessed as very acceptable (mean scores ≥3 on a 0 to 4 descriptive scale) across nearly all acceptability attributes.

Conclusions

Findings showed that the iPACT-E-Trauma intervention is feasible and was perceived as highly acceptable by participants. Further tailoring iPACT-E-Trauma to patient needs, providing more training time for relaxation techniques, and modifying the Web platform to improve its convenience could enhance the feasibility and acceptability of the intervention.

Trial Registration

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 91987302; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN91987302 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6ynibjPHa)

Spontaneous Recanalization of the Obstructed Right Coronary Artery Caused by Blunt Chest Trauma

Blunt chest trauma can cause a wide variety of injuries including acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Although AMI due to coronary artery dissection caused by blunt chest trauma is very rare, it is associated with high morbidity and mortality. In the vast majority of patients with AMI, primary percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) are performed to recanalize obstructed arteries, but PCI carries a substantial risk of hemorrhagic complications in the acute phase of trauma. We report a case of AMI due to right coronary artery (RCA) dissection caused by blunt chest trauma. The totally obstructed RCA was spontaneously recanalized with medical therapy. We could avoid primary PCI in the acute phase of blunt chest trauma because electrocardiogram showed early reperfusion signs. We performed an elective PCI in the subacute phase when the risk of bleeding subsided. Since the risk of severe hemorrhagic complications is greater in the acute phase of blunt chest trauma as compared with the late phase, deferring emergency PCI is reasonable if signs of recanalization are observed.

Blunt chest trauma: a clinical chameleon

The incidence of blunt chest trauma (BCT) is greater than 15% of all trauma admissions to the emergency departments worldwide and is the second leading cause of death after head injury in motor vehicle accidents. The mortality due to BCT is inhomogeneously described ranging from 9% to 60%. BCT is commonly caused by a sudden high-speed deceleration trauma to the anterior chest, leading to a compression of the thorax. All thoracic structures might be injured as a result of the trauma. Complex cardiac arrhythmia, heart murmurs, hypotension, angina-like chest pain, respiratory insufficiency or distention of the jugular veins may indicate potential cardiac injury. However, on admission to emergency departments symptoms might be missing or may not be clearly associated with the injury. Accurate diagnostics and early management in order to prevent serious complications and death are essential for patients suffering a BCT. Optimal initial diagnostics includes echocardiography or CT, Holter-monitor recordings, serial 12-lead electrocardiography and measurements of cardiac enzymes. Immediate diagnostics leading to the appropriate therapy is essential for saving a patient’s life. The key aspect of the entire management, including diagnostics and treatment of patients with BCT, remains an interdisciplinary team involving cardiologists, cardiothoracic surgeons, imaging radiologists and trauma specialists working in tandem.

Admission of elderly blunt thoracic trauma patients directly to the intensive care unit improves outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Blunt thoracic trauma in the elderly has been associated with adverse outcomes. As an internal quality improvement initiative, direct intensive care unit (ICU) admission of nonmechanically ventilated elderly patients with clinically important thoracic trauma (primarily multiple rib fractures) was recommended.

METHODS

A retrospective review of the trauma registry at a level 1 trauma center was performed for patients aged ≥65 y with blunt thoracic trauma, admitted between the 2 y before (2010-2012) and after (2013-2015) the recommendation.

RESULTS

There were 258 elderly thoracic trauma admissions post-recommendation (POST) and 131 admissions pre-recommendation (PRE). Their median Injury Severity Score (13 versus 12, P = ns) was similar. The POST group had increased ICU utilization (54.3% versus 25.2%, P < 0.001). The POST group had decreased unplanned ICU admissions (8.5% versus 13.0%, P < 0.001), complications (14.3% versus 28.2%, P = 0.001), and ICU length of stay (4 versus 6 d, P = 0.05). More POST group patients were discharged to home (41.1% versus 27.5%, P = 0.008). Of these, the 140 POST and 33 PRE patients admitted to the ICU had comparable median Injury Severity Score (14 versus 17, P = ns) and chest Abbreviated Injury Score ≥3 (66.4% versus 60.6%, P = ns). The POST-ICU group redemonstrated the above benefits, as well as decreased hospital length of stay (10 versus 14 d, P = 0.03) and in-hospital mortality (2.9% versus 15.2%, P = 0.004).

CONCLUSIONS

Admission of geriatric trauma patients with clinically important blunt thoracic trauma directly to the ICU was associated with improved outcomes.

Bundle of care for blunt chest trauma patients improves analgesia but increases rates of intensive care unit admission: A retrospective case-control study

INTRODUCTION

This single-centre retrospective case-control study aimed to assess the effectiveness of a multidisciplinary clinical pathway for blunt chest trauma patients admitted in emergency department (ED).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

All consecutive blunt chest trauma patients with more than 3 rib fractures and no indication of mechanical ventilation were compared to a retrospective cohort over two 24-month periods, before and after the introduction of the bundle of care. Improvement of analgesia was the main outcome investigated in this study. The secondary outcomes were the occurrence of secondary respiratory complications (pneumonia, indication for mechanical ventilation, secondary ICU admission for respiratory failure or death), the intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital length of stay (LOS).

RESULTS

Sixty-nine pairs of patients were matched using a 1:1 nearest neighbour algorithm adjusted on age and indices of severity. Between the two periods, there was a significant reduction of the rate of uncontrolled analgesia (55 vs. 17%, P<0.001). A significant increase in the rate of primary ICU transfer during the post-protocol period (23 vs. 52%, P<0.001) was not associated with a reduction of secondary respiratory complications or a reduction of ICU or hospital LOS. Only the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs appeared to be associated with a significant reduction of secondary respiratory complications (OR=0.3 [0.1-0.9], P=0.03).

CONCLUSION

Implementation of a multidisciplinary clinical pathway significantly improves pain control after ED management, but increases the rate of primary ICU admission without significant reduction of secondary respiratory complications.

Physiotherapy management of patients undergoing thoracotomy procedure: A survey of current practice in Gauteng

BACKGROUND

Physiotherapy is included in the management of patients undergoing thoracic surgery. The aim of this study was to describe physiotherapy practice in the management of patients who undergo an open thoracotomy.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study using convenience sampling was undertaken. An electronic self-administered questionnaire was distributed via SurveyMonkey to 1389 physiotherapists registered with the South African Society of Physiotherapy in Gauteng. The data collection period was August and September 2014 and data were analysed descriptively.

RESULTS

A total of 323 physiotherapists (23.3%) responded to the survey and 141 (10.2%) indicated that they treated patients with open thoracotomies. Preoperative treatment was done by 65 (41.6%) and consisted of teaching supported coughing (92.3%; n = 60), sustained maximal inspiration (70.8%; n = 46) and the active cycle of breathing technique (69.2%; n = 45). One hundred and sixteen (82.3%) respondents treated patients during their hospital stay. Deep breathing exercises (97.6%; n = 83), coughing (95.3%; n = 81), early mobilisation (95.3%; n = 81), upper limb mobility exercises (91.8%; n = 78), chest wall vibrations (88.2%; n = 75) and trunk mobility exercises (85.9%; n = 73) were done frequently. Pain management modalities were less common, for example transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (12.9%; n = 11). Post hospital physiotherapy management was uncommon (32.6%; n = 46).

CONCLUSION

Physiotherapy related to early mobilisation in hospital is in line with evidence-based practice, but further education is needed regarding the need for physiotherapy post hospital discharge and pain management.

Rib Fractures: To Fix or Not to Fix? An Evidence-Based Algorithm

Rib fractures are a common injury resulting from blunt chest trauma. The most important complications associated with rib fractures include death, pneumonia, and the need for mechanical ventilation. The development of new osteosynthesis materials has stimulated increased interest in the surgical treatment of rib fractures. Surgical stabilisation, however, is not needed for every patient with rib fractures or for every patient with flail chest. This paper presents an easy-to-use evidence-based algorithm, developed by the authors, for the treatment of patients with flail chest and isolated rib fractures.

Protocol for a multicentre randomised feasibility STUdy evaluating the impact of a prognostic model for Management of BLunt chest wall trauma patients: STUMBL trial

INTRODUCTION

A new prognostic model has been developed and externally validated, the aim of which is to assist in the management of the blunt chest wall trauma patient in the emergency department (ED). A definitive randomised controlled trial (impact trial) is required to assess the clinical and cost effectiveness of the new model before it can be accepted in clinical practice. The purpose of this trial is to assess the feasibility and acceptability of such a definitive trial and inform its design.

METHODS/ANALYSIS

This feasibility trial is designed to test the methods of a multicentre, cluster-randomised (stepped- wedge) trial, with a substantial qualitative component. Four EDs in England and Wales will collect data for all blunt chest wall trauma patients over a 5-month period; in the initial period acting as the controls (normal care), and in the second period acting as the interventions (in which the new model will be used). Baseline measurements including completion of the SF-12v2 will be obtained on initial assessment in the ED. Patient outcome data will then be collected for any subsequent hospitalisations. Data collection will conclude with a 6-week follow-up completion of two surveys (SF-12v2 and Client Services Receipt Inventory). Analysis of outcomes will focus on feasibility, acceptability and trial processes and will include recruitment and retention rates, attendance at clinician training rates and use of model in the ED. Qualitative feedback will be obtained through clinician interviews and a research nurse focus group. An evaluation of the feasibility of health economics outcomes data will be completed.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Wales Research Ethics Committee 6 granted approval for the trial in September 2016. Patient recruitment will commence in February 2017. Planned dissemination is through publication in a peer-reviewed Emergency Medicine Journal, presentation at appropriate conferences and to stakeholders at professional meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN95571506; Pre-results.

Studying Morbidity and Predicting Mortality in Patients with Blunt Chest Trauma using a Novel Clinical Score

BACKGROUND

A departmental audit in March 2015 revealed significant mortality rate of 40% in blunt chest trauma patients (much greater than the global 25%). A study was thus planned to study morbidity and predictors of mortality in blunt chest trauma patients admitted to our hospital.

METHODS

This study was a prospective observational study of 139 patients with a history of blunt chest trauma between June 2015 and November 2015 after the Institutional Ethics Committee approval in April 2015. The sample size was calculated from the prevalence rate in our institute from the past medical records.

RESULTS

The morbidity factors following blunt chest injuries apart from pain were need for Intensive Care Unit stay, mechanical ventilation, and pneumonia/acute respiratory distress syndrome. Significant predictors of mortality in our study were SpO2 <80 at the time of presentation, Glasgow coma scale ≤ 8, patients with four or more rib fractures, presence of associated head injury, Injury Severity Score >16, and need for mechanical ventilation. By calculating the likelihood ratios of each respiratory sign, a clinical score was devised.

CONCLUSION

The modifiable factors affecting morbidity and mortality were identified. Mild to moderate chest injury due to blunt trauma is difficult to diagnose. The restoration of respiratory physiology has not only significant implications on recovery from chest injury but also all other injuries. It is our sincere hope that the score we have formulated will help reduce mortality and morbidity after further trials.

Magnitude of rib fracture displacement predicts opioid requirements

INTRODUCTION

It is unknown whether the magnitude of rib fracture (RF) displacement predicts pain medication requirements in blunt chest trauma patients.

METHODS

Adult blunt RF patients undergoing computed tomography (CT) of the chest admitted to an urban Level 1 trauma center (2007-2012) were retrospectively reviewed. Pain management in those with displaced RF (DRF), nondisplaced RF (NDRF), or combined DRF and NDRF (CRF) was compared by univariate analysis. Linear regression models were developed to determine whether total opioid requirements [expressed as log morphine equianalgesic dose (MED)] could be predicted by the magnitude of RF displacement (expressed as the sum of the Euclidean distance of all displaced RF) or number of RF, after adjusting for patient and injury characteristics.

RESULTS

There were 245 patients, of whom 39 (16%) had DRF only, 77 (31%) had NDRF only, and 129 (53%) had CRF. Opioids were given to 224 patients (91%). Compared to DRF (mean, 1.7 RF per patient) and NDRF patients (2.4 RF per patient), those with CRF (6.8 RF per patient) were older and had more RF per patient and a higher Injury Severity Score (ISS) and MED (251 vs 53 and 105 mg, respectively, p < 0.0001 and p = 0.0045). They also more frequently received patient-controlled analgesia. Patients with displaced RF had a lower mean ISS and MED and received more epidural analgesia compared with patients with NDRF. Total MED was associated with both the magnitude of RF displacement (p < 0.0001) and the number of RF (p < 0.0001). Every 5-mm increase in total displacement predicted a 6.3% increase in mean MED (p = 0.0035), while every additional RF predicted an 11.2% increase in MED (p = 0.0001). These associations included adjustment for age, ISS, and presence of chest tubes.

CONCLUSION

The magnitude of RF displacement and the number of RF predicted opioid requirements. This information may assist in anticipating patients with blunt RF who might have higher analgesic requirements.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic study, level IV.

A Hybrid Web-Based and In-Person Self-Management Intervention to Prevent Acute to Chronic Pain Transition After Major Lower Extremity Trauma (iPACT-E-Trauma): Protocol for a Pilot Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial

Background

Acute pain frequently transitions to chronic pain after major lower extremity trauma (ET). Several modifiable psychological risk and protective factors have been found to contribute to, or prevent, chronic pain development. Some empirical evidence has shown that interventions, including cognitive and behavioral strategies that promote pain self-management, could prevent chronic pain. However, the efficacy of such interventions has never been demonstrated in ET patients. We have designed a self-management intervention to prevent acute to chronic pain transition after major lower extremity trauma (iPACT-E-Trauma).

Objective

This pilot randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to evaluate the feasibility and research methods of the intervention, as well as the potential effects of iPACT-E-Trauma, on pain intensity and pain interference with daily activities.

Methods

A 2-arm single-blind pilot RCT will be conducted. Participants will receive the iPACT-E-Trauma intervention (experimental group) or an educational pamphlet (control group) combined with usual care. Data will be collected at baseline, during iPACT-E-Trauma delivery, as well as at 3 and 6 months post-injury. Primary outcomes are pain intensity and pain interference with daily living activities at 6 months post-injury. Secondary outcomes are pain self-efficacy, pain acceptance, pain catastrophizing, pain-related fear, anxiety and depression symptoms, health care service utilization, and return to work.

Results

Fifty-three patients were recruited at the time of manuscript preparation. Comprehensive data analyses will be initiated in July 2017. Study results are expected to be available in 2018.

Conclusions

Chronic pain is an important problem after major lower ET. However, no preventive intervention has yet been successfully proven in these patients. This study will focus on developing a feasible intervention to prevent acute to chronic pain transition in the context of ET. Findings will allow for the refinement of iPACT-E-Trauma and methodological parameters in prevision of a full-scale multi-site RCT.

Trial Registration

International Standard Randomized Controlled Trial Number (ISRCTN): 91987302; http://www.controlled-trials.com/ISRCTN91987302 (Archived by WebCite at http://www.webcitation.org/6rR8G2vMs)

Chest Wall Trauma

Chest wall trauma is common, and contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality of trauma patients. Early identification of major chest wall and concomitant intrathoracic injuries is critical. Generalized management of multiple rib fractures and flail chest consists of adequate pain control (including locoregional modalities); management of pulmonary dysfunction by invasive and noninvasive means; and, in some cases, surgical fixation. Multiple studies have shown that patients with flail chest have substantial benefit (decreased ventilator and intensive care unit days, improved pulmonary function, and improved long-term functional outcome) when they undergo surgery compared with nonoperative management.

Lessons from a large trauma center: impact of blunt chest trauma in polytrauma patients-still a relevant problem?

Background

Thoracic trauma is the third most common cause of death after abdominal injury and head trauma in polytrauma patients. The purpose of this study was to investigate epidemiological data, treatment and outcome of polytrauma patients with blunt chest trauma in order to help improve management, prevent complications and decrease polytrauma patients’ mortality.

Methods

In this retrospective study we included all polytrauma patients with blunt chest trauma admitted to our tertiary care center emergency department for a 2-year period, from June 2012 until May 2014. Data collection included details of treatment and outcome. Patients with chest trauma and Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥18 and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) >2 in more than one body region were included.

Results

A total of 110 polytrauma patients with blunt chest injury were evaluated. 82 of them were males and median age was 48.5 years. Car accidents, falls from a height and motorbike accidents were the most common causes (>75%) for blunt chest trauma. Rib fractures, pneumothorax and pulmonary contusion were the most common chest injuries. Most patients (64.5%) sustained a serious chest injury (AIS_thorax 3), 19.1% a severe chest injury (AIS_thorax 4) and 15.5% a moderate chest injury (AIS_thorax 2). 90% of patients with blunt chest trauma were treated conservatively. Chest tube insertion was indicated in 54.5% of patients. The need for chest tube was significantly higher among the AIS_thorax 4 group in comparison to the AIS groups 3 and 2 (p < 0.001). Also, admission to the ICU was directly related to the severity of the AIS_thorax (p < 0.001). The severity of chest trauma did not correlate with ICU length of stay, intubation days, complications or mortality.

Conclusion

Although 84.5% of patients suffered from serious or even severe chest injury, neither in the conservative nor in the surgically treated group a significant impact of injury severity on ICU stay, intubation days, complications or mortality was observed. AIS_thorax was only related to the rate of chest tube insertions and ICU admission. Management with early chest tube insertion when necessary, pain control and chest physiotherapy resulted in good outcome in the majority of patients.

Implementation evaluation and refinement of an intervention to improve blunt chest injury management-A mixed-methods study

Aims and objectives

To investigate uptake of a Chest Injury Protocol (ChIP), examine factors influencing its implementation and identify interventions for promoting its use.

Background

Failure to treat blunt chest injuries in a timely manner with sufficient analgesia, physiotherapy and respiratory support, can lead to complications such as pneumonia and respiratory failure and/or death.

Design

This is a mixed‐methods implementation evaluation study.

Methods

Two methods were used: (i) identification and review of the characteristics of all patients eligible for the ChIP protocol, and (ii) survey of hospital staff opinions mapped to the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF) to identify barriers and facilitators to implementation. The characteristics and treatment received between the groups were compared using the chi‐square test or Fischer's exact test for proportions, and the Mann–Whitney U‐test for continuous data. Quantitative survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics. Qualitative data were coded in NVivo 10 using a coding guide based on the TDF and Behaviour Change Wheel (BCW). Identification of interventions to change target behaviours was sourced from the Behaviour Change Technique Taxonomy Version 1 in consultation with stakeholders.

Results

Only 68.4% of eligible patients received ChIP. Fifteen facilitators and 10 barriers were identified to influence the implementation of ChIP in the clinical setting. These themes were mapped to 10 of the 14 TDF domains and corresponded with all nine intervention functions in the BCW. Seven of these intervention functions were selected to address the target behaviours and a multi‐faceted relaunch of the revised protocol developed. Following re‐launch, uptake increased to 91%.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated how the BCW may be used to revise and improve a clinical protocol in the ED context.

Relevance to clinical practice

Newly implemented clinical protocols should incorporate clinician behaviour change assessment, strategy and interventions. Enhancing the self‐efficacy of emergency nurses when performing assessments has the potential to improve patient outcomes and should be included in implementation strategy.

Forced vital capacity assessment for risk stratification of blunt chest trauma patients in emergency settings: A preliminary study

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to assess the performance of Forced Vital Capacity (FVC) for prediction of secondary respiratory complications in blunt chest trauma patients.

METHODS

During a 15-month period, all consecutive blunt chest trauma patients admitted in our emergency intensive care unit with more than 3 rib fractures were eligible, unless they required mechanical ventilation in the prehospital or emergency settings. FVC was measured at admission and at emergency discharge after therapeutic interventions. The main outcome was the occurrence of secondary respiratory complications defined by hospital-acquired pulmonary infection, secondary admission in the intensive care unit or mechanical ventilation for respiratory failure or death. The performance of FVC for prediction of secondary respiratory complications was assessed by receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve and multivariate analysis after logistic regression.

RESULTS

Sixty-two consecutive patients were included and 13 (21%) presented secondary respiratory complications. Only FVC measured at emergency discharge - not FCV at admission - was significantly lower in patients who developed secondary respiratory complications (44±15 vs. 61±20%, P=0.002). The area under the ROC curves for FCV in predicting secondary pulmonary complications was 0.79 [95% CI: 0.66-0.88], P=0.0001. An FVC at discharge≤50% was independently associated with the occurrence of secondary complications with an OR at 7.9 [1.9-42.1], P=0.004.

CONCLUSION

The non-improvement of FVC≤50% at emergency discharge is associated with secondary respiratory complications and should prevent the under-triage of patients with no sign of respiratory failure at admission.

Profile of fall injury in the New South Wales older adult population

BACKGROUND

A previous report from the New South Wales (NSW) Trauma Registry identified falls and increasing age of severely injured patients as highly prevalent, but detailed injury and demographic profiles, outcomes and their predictors are poorly reported. This study describes the fall-injury profile in the older adult major trauma patient in NSW.

METHODS

A retrospective registry based study between 2010 and 2014 on patients aged 55 years and over who sustained a moderate to critical injury from a fall, examining mortality and length of stay using regression analyses.

RESULTS

There were 4263 major trauma falls between 2010 and 2014, most occurring at home (55.4%), on the same level (46.7%) and resulting in head injury (63.2%). Significant predictors for mortality following a fall were increased age, male gender, falls in residential care institutions, isolated head injuries and injury classified as critical (ISS 41-75).

CONCLUSIONS

The outcomes of falls in the older adult are very poor and a focused prospective study is required to identify areas for intervention and prevention. The predictors of mortality following a fall identified in this study can be used with existing research to develop tools and design care pathways for implementation in the emergency context to improve patient care and outcomes.

ChIP: An early activation protocol for isolated blunt chest injury improves outcomes, a retrospective cohort study

BACKGROUND

Blunt chest injuries not treated in a timely manner with sufficient analgesia, physiotherapy and respiratory support are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. The aim of the study was to determine the impact of a blunt chest injury early activation protocol (ChIP) on patient and hospital outcomes.

METHODS

In this pre-post cohort study, the outcomes of patients with blunt chest injury who received ChIP were compared against those who did not. Data including injury severity, patient outcomes, hospital treatments and comorbidites were extracted from medical records. The primary outcome was pneumonia. Secondary outcomes evaluated health service delivery. Logistic and multiple regressions were used to adjust for potential confounding variables.

RESULTS

546 patients were included, 273 in the before-ChIP cohort and 273 in the after-ChIP cohort. The incidence of pneumonia following the introduction of ChIP was reduced by 4.8% (95% CI 0.5-9.2, p=0.03). In the after-ChIP cohort, more patients received a pain team review (32% vs. 13%, p<0.001), physiotherapy (93% vs. 86%, p=0.005) and trauma team review (95% vs. 39%, p<0.001). There was no difference in length of stay (p=0.50).

CONCLUSIONS

ChIP improved the delivery of healthcare services and reduced the rate of pneumonia among patients with isolated chest trauma.

Clinical study on VATS combined mechanical ventilation treatment of ARDS secondary to severe chest trauma

The aim of the study was to investigate the clinical effects of microinvasive video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) combined with mechanical ventilation in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) secondary to severe chest trauma. A total of 62 patients with ARDS secondary to severe chest trauma were divided into the observation and control groups. The patients in the observation groups were treated with VATS combined with early mechanical ventilation while patients in the control group were treated using routine open thoracotomy combined with early mechanical ventilation. Compared to the controls, the survival rate of the observation group was significantly higher. The average operation time of the observation group was significantly shorter than that of the control group, and the incidence of complications in the perioperative period of the observation group was significantly lower than that of the control group (p<0.05). The average application time of the observation group was significantly shorter than that of the control group, and the incidence of ventilator-associated complications was significantly lower than that of the control group (p<0.05). In conclusion, a reasonable understanding of the indications and contraindications of VATS, combined with early mechanical treatment significantly improved the success rate of the treatment of ARDS patients secondary to severe chest trauma and reduced the complications.

A Retrospective Observational Study Examining the Effect of Thoracic Epidural and Patient Controlled Analgesia on Short-term Outcomes in Blunt Thoracic Trauma Injuries

Effective analgesia in the early stages after any major traumatic event remains pivotal to optimal trauma management. For patients with significant thoracic injuries, this is paramount to ensure ongoing efficient respiratory function. The aim of this study was to investigate the use of analgesic modes in the management of patients with a primary thoracic injury and blunt mechanism of injury. By understanding variables that influence the use of varying analgesic modes and influence the development of pulmonary complications, there should be more uniform evidence-based prescription in the future.This retrospective study considered analgesic use in patients admitted after blunt thoracic injuries at one major trauma center over a 2-year period. Pulmonary complications measured included both infective and ventilator-associated failure. Univariate and multivariate analyses were used to identify patient and injury severity characteristics and their association with respiratory complications.A total of 401 cases were reviewed and analyzed: 159 received Patient Controlled Analgesia (PCA), 32 received PCA and epidural analgesia (EA), 6 received EA alone, and 204 received interval-administered analgesia. There were no significant differences in the rates of complication when compared between analgesic modes. Patients who developed pneumonia had significantly increased number of thoracic fractures and underlying organ injury (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis highlighted duration of intercostal drain insertion (OR 1.377, P = 0.001) and premorbid cardiac disease (OR 2.624, P = 0.042) and ICU length of stay (OR: 1.146, P < 0.001) as significant predictors of developing pneumonia in this patient group.Examining the different analgesic modes, this study failed to identify a particular analgesic mode that was more effective in preventing pulmonary complications in blunt thoracic injuries. However, variables that may influence usage of different analgesic modes and high-risk groups for the development of pneumonia were identified. Further work is warranted to consider the long-term benefits of analgesia in patients post-blunt thoracic injuries.