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Alqurashi N, Bell S, Carley SD, Lecky F, Body R. Head Injury Evaluation and Ambulance Diagnosis (HOME) Study protocol: a feasibility study assessing the implementation of the Canadian CT Head Rule in the prehospital setting. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e077191. [PMID: 38862222 PMCID: PMC11168128 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-077191] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a common presentation in the prehospital environment. At present, paramedics do not routinely use tools to identify low-risk patients who could be left at scene or taken to a local hospital rather than a major trauma centre. The Canadian CT Head Rule (CCHR) was developed to guide the use of CT imaging in hospital. It has not been evaluated in the prehospital setting. We aim to address this gap by evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of implementing the CCHR to patients and paramedics, and the feasibility of conducting a full-scale clinical trial of its use. METHODS AND ANALYSIS We will recruit adult patients who are being transported to an emergency department (ED) by ambulance after suffering a mild TBI. Paramedics will prospectively collect data for the CCHR. All patients will be transported to the ED, where deferred consent will be taken and the treating clinician will reassess the CCHR, blinded to paramedic interpretation. The primary clinical outcome will be neurosurgically significant TBI. Feasibility outcomes include recruitment and attrition rates. We will assess acceptability of the CCHR to paramedics using the Ottawa Acceptability of Decision Rules Instrument. Interobserver reliability of the CCHR will be assessed between paramedics and the treating clinician in the ED. Participating paramedics and patients will be invited to participate in semistructured interviews to explore the acceptability of trial processes and facilitators and barriers to the use of the CCHR in practice. Data will be analysed thematically. We anticipate recruiting approximately 100 patients over 6 months. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION This study was approved by the Health Research Authority and the Research Ethics Committee (REC reference: 22/NW/0358). The results will be published in a peer-reviewed journal, presented at conferences and will be incorporated into a doctoral thesis. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER ISRCTN92566288.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naif Alqurashi
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Department of Accidents and Trauma, Prince Sultan bin Abdelaziz College for Emergency Medical Services, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Steve Bell
- Medical Directorate, North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust, Bolton, UK
| | - Simon D Carley
- Emergency Department, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
| | - Fiona Lecky
- School of Health and Related Research, University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Richard Body
- Division of Cardiovascular Sciences, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- Emergency Department, Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester, UK
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Benedetti S, Benedetti MD, Tomasi D, Palmisano G, Calcagno S, Bianchi S, Giannasi G. In old anticoagulated patients with mild traumatic brain injury, a 24-h observation period should not be recommended without evidence of a clear benefit: a retrospective study of delayed hemorrhagic versus iatrogenic complications. Intern Emerg Med 2024; 19:523-534. [PMID: 37812308 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-023-03435-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 10/10/2023]
Abstract
Mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) is a common cause of admission to the Emergency Department (ED). Many patients are elderly on oral anticoagulant therapy (OAT) at increased risk of immediate and delayed intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). To investigate the frequency of delayed ICH (DICH) in old patients with mTBI in OAT and the occurrence of complications related to the ED stay. In this single-center retrospective study, we recruited all patients in OAT aged 65 and over, admitted for mTBI to the ED of our Hospital in Florence from March 2019 to February 2021. Clinical variables were collected and cranial computed tomography (CT) scans reviewed. The primary outcome was the frequency of DICH occurring within 30 days since the trauma after a first negative CT. Secondary outcomes included need of neurosurgical intervention and death for DICH, and hospital-related complications. Statistical analyses were conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics (version 22). Among 363 enrolled patients, there were 31 acute ICH (8.5%) at the first CT scan, while in the 316 negative included patients, 10 DICH (3.2%) were identified. Among the latter, no neurosurgical treatment, or death due to ICH occurred. Overall, 25 cases (6.9%) had iatrogenic complications during the 24-h observation period, often serious, such as respiratory failure after sedation due to restlessness, or COVID-19 infection. The low frequency of DICH and the occurrence of several iatrogenic complications suggest that the risk-benefit ratio of a 24-h ED observation is not advantageous in elderly with mTBI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saverio Benedetti
- Emergency Department, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, U.O. Medicina d'Urgenza, Azienda Ospedaliera Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy.
| | - Maria Donata Benedetti
- Neurologia Clinica, Dipartimento di Neuroscienze, Università degli Studi di Verona, Biomedicina e Movimento, Verona, Italy
| | - Domenico Tomasi
- Radiology Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Toscana Centro, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, U.O. Medicina d'Urgenza, Florence, Italy
| | - Giulia Palmisano
- Emergency Department, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, U.O. Medicina d'Urgenza, Azienda Ospedaliera Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | - Stefano Calcagno
- Emergency Department, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, U.O. Medicina d'Urgenza, Azienda Ospedaliera Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
| | - Simone Bianchi
- Emergency Department, Azienda Ospedaliera Toscana Centro, S. Maria Nuova Hospital, U.O. Medicina d'Urgenza, Florence, Italy
| | - Gianfranco Giannasi
- Emergency Department, San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, U.O. Medicina d'Urgenza, Azienda Ospedaliera Toscana Centro, Florence, Italy
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Mitchell A, Elmasry Y, van Poelgeest E, Welsh TJ. Anticoagulant use in older persons at risk for falls: therapeutic dilemmas-a clinical review. Eur Geriatr Med 2023; 14:683-696. [PMID: 37392359 PMCID: PMC10447288 DOI: 10.1007/s41999-023-00811-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2023] [Accepted: 06/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this clinical narrative review was to summarise the existing knowledge on the use of anticoagulants and potential adverse events in older people at risk of falls with a history of atrial fibrillation or venous thromboembolism. The review also offers practical steps prescribers can take when (de-)prescribing anticoagulants to maximise safety. METHODS Literature searches were conducted using PubMed, Embase and Scopus. Additional articles were identified by searching reference lists. RESULTS Anticoagulants are often underused in older people due to concerns about the risk of falls and intracranial haemorrhage. However, evidence suggests that the absolute risk is low and outweighed by the reduction in stroke risk. DOACs are now recommended first line for most patients due to their favourable safety profile. Off-label dose reduction of DOACs is not recommended due to reduced efficacy with limited reduction in bleeding risk. Medication review and falls prevention strategies should be implemented before prescribing anticoagulation. Deprescribing should be considered in severe frailty, limited life expectancy and increased bleeding risk (e.g., cerebral microbleeds). CONCLUSION When considering whether to (de-)prescribe anticoagulants, it is important to consider the risks associated with stopping therapy in addition to potential adverse events. Shared decision-making with the patient and their carers is crucial as patient and prescriber views often differ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anneka Mitchell
- Research Institute for the Care of Older People (RICE), Bath, UK.
- Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK.
- Life Sciences Department, University of Bath, Bath, UK.
| | - Yasmin Elmasry
- Pharmacy Department, University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust, Plymouth, UK
| | | | - Tomas J Welsh
- Research Institute for the Care of Older People (RICE), Bath, UK
- Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
- Royal United Hospitals Bath NHS Foundation Trust, Bath, UK
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Sakkas A, Weiß C, Wilde F, Ebeling M, Scheurer M, Thiele OC, Mischkowski RA, Pietzka S. Justification of Indication for Cranial CT Imaging after Mild Traumatic Brain Injury According to the Current National Guidelines. Diagnostics (Basel) 2023; 13:diagnostics13111826. [PMID: 37296677 DOI: 10.3390/diagnostics13111826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2023] [Revised: 05/14/2023] [Accepted: 05/21/2023] [Indexed: 06/12/2023] Open
Abstract
The primary aim was to evaluate the compliance of cranial CT indication with the national guideline-based decision rules in patients after mTBI. The secondary aim was to determine the incidence of CT pathologies among justified and unjustified CT scans and to investigate the diagnostic value of these decision rules. This is a retrospective, single-center study on 1837 patients (mean age = 70.7 years) referred to a clinic of oral and maxillofacial surgery following mTBI over a five-year period. The current national clinical decision rules and recommendations for mTBI were retrospectively applied to calculate the incidence of unjustified CT imaging. The intracranial pathologies among the justified and unjustified CT scans were presented using descriptive statistical analysis. The performance of the decision rules was ascertained by calculating the sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values. A total of 123 intracerebral lesions were radiologically detected in 102 (5.5%) of the study patients. Most (62.1%) of the CT scans strictly complied with the guideline recommendations, and 37.8% were not justified and likely avoidable. A significantly higher incidence of intracranial pathology was observed in patients with justified CT scans compared with patients with unjustified CT scans (7.9% vs. 2.5%, p < 0.0001). Patients with loss of consciousness, amnesia, seizures, cephalgia, somnolence, dizziness, nausea, and clinical signs of cranial fractures presented pathologic CT findings more frequently (p < 0.05). The decision rules identified CT pathologies with 92.28% sensitivity and 39.08% specificity. To conclude, compliance with the national decision rules for mTBI was low, and more than a third of the CT scans performed were identified as "likely avoidable". A higher incidence of pathologic CT findings was detected in patients with justified cranial CT imaging. The investigated decision rules showed a high sensitivity but low specificity for predicting CT pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Sakkas
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, German Armed Forces Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Christel Weiß
- Medical Statistics and Biomathematics, University Medical Centre Mannheim, Heidelberg University, 68167 Mannheim, Germany
| | - Frank Wilde
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, German Armed Forces Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Marcel Ebeling
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, German Armed Forces Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Mario Scheurer
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, German Armed Forces Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
| | - Oliver Christian Thiele
- Department of Oral and Plastic Maxillofacial Surgery, Ludwigshafen Hospital, 67063 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Robert Andreas Mischkowski
- Department of Oral and Plastic Maxillofacial Surgery, Ludwigshafen Hospital, 67063 Ludwigshafen, Germany
| | - Sebastian Pietzka
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, University Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
- Department of Cranio-Maxillo-Facial-Surgery, German Armed Forces Hospital Ulm, 89081 Ulm, Germany
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Turcato G, Zaboli A, Bonora A, Ricci G, Zannoni M, Maccagnani A, Zorzi E, Pfeifer N, Brigo F. Analysis of Clinical and Laboratory Risk Factors of Post-Traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage in Patients on Direct Oral Anticoagulants with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury: An Observational Multicenter Cohort. J Emerg Med 2023; 64:1-13. [PMID: 36658008 DOI: 10.1016/j.jemermed.2022.09.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2022] [Revised: 07/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessing the risk of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) in patients with a mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) who are taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) is challenging. Currently, extensive use of computed tomography (CT) is routine in the emergency department (ED). OBJECTIVE This study aims to investigate whether the clinical and laboratory characteristics presented at the ED evaluation can also estimate the risk of post-traumatic ICH in DOAC-treated patients with MTBI. METHODS A retrospective observational study was conducted in three EDs in Italy from January 1, 2016 to March 15, 2020. All patients treated with DOACs who were evaluated for an MTBI in the ED were enrolled. The primary outcome of the study was the presence of post-traumatic ICH in the head CT performed in the ED. RESULTS Of 930 patients on DOACs with MTBI who were enrolled, 6.8% (63 of 930) had a post-traumatic ICH and 1.5% (14 of 930) were treated with surgery or died as a result of the ICH. None of the laboratory factors were associated with an increased risk of ICH. On multivariate analysis, previous neurosurgical intervention, major trauma dynamic, post-traumatic loss of consciousness, post-traumatic amnesia, Glasgow Coma Scale score of 14, and evidence of trauma above the clavicles were associated with a higher risk of post-traumatic ICH. The net clinical benefit provided by risk factor assessment appears superior to the strategy of performing CT on all DOAC-treated patients. CONCLUSIONS Assessment of the clinical characteristics presented at ED admission can help identify DOAC-treated patients with MTBI who are at risk of ICH.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gianni Turcato
- Emergency Department, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano, Italy
| | - Arian Zaboli
- Emergency Department, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano, Italy
| | - Antonio Bonora
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Policlinico Univeristario di Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Giorgio Ricci
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospital Civile Maggiore, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Massimo Zannoni
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Hospital Civile Maggiore, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Antonio Maccagnani
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Policlinico Univeristario di Verona, Azienda Ospedaliera Universitaria Integrata, Verona, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Zorzi
- Department of Cardiology and Intensive Care Cardiology, Girolamo Fracastoro Hospital of San Bonifacio, Azienda Ospedaliera Scaligera, San Bonifacio, Verona, Italy
| | - Norbert Pfeifer
- Emergency Department, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano, Italy
| | - Francesco Brigo
- Department of Neurology, Hospital of Merano (SABES-ASDAA), Merano, Italy
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Nicholson H, Voss S, Black S, Taylor H, Williams D, Benger J. Factors influencing conveyance of older adults with minor head injury by paramedics to the emergency department: a multiple methods study. BMC Emerg Med 2022; 22:184. [PMID: 36418963 PMCID: PMC9682699 DOI: 10.1186/s12873-022-00747-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 11/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Head injury (HI) in older adults due to low-energy falls result in a substantial number of emergency department (ED) attendances. However, mortality associated with minor HI is very low. Reducing conveyance to hospital is important for older adults and is a priority for the National Health Service (NHS). Therefore, paramedics are required to make accurate decisions regarding conveyance to the ED. This study used routine data and semi-structured interviews to explore the factors that influence paramedic decision-making when considering whether to convey an adult aged 65 years and over with a minor HI to the ED. METHODS Semi-structured telephone interviews were completed with ten UK paramedics from a single EMS (ambulance) provider organisation. Interviews explored the factors influencing the paramedics' conveyance decision-making in adults aged 65 years and over with a minor HI. Data were initially analysed inductively to develop a thematic framework. A retrospective analysis of ambulance service data was also completed to determine the scope and scale of the issue in Southwest England. An in-depth audit of 100 conveyed patient records was used to determine the proportion of patients conveyed to the ED who met National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and Joint Royal Colleges Ambulance Liaison Committee (JRCALC) guidelines. RESULTS In 2019 South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) attended 15,650 emergency calls to patients aged 65 and over with minor HI, with 70.5% conveyed to ED. 81% of conveyed patients met NICE and JRCALC guideline criteria for conveyance, with the remainder conveyed due to wound care or other medical concerns. The framework developed from the interviews comprised four themes: resources; patient factors; consequences; paramedic factors. Important factors included: the patient's social situation; guidelines; clinical support availability; the history and presentation of the patient; risk. CONCLUSION This study examined paramedic conveyance decisions for older people with minor HI. It identified multiple influencing factors, highlighting the complex nature of these decisions, and may serve as a basis for developing an intervention to safely decrease ED conveyance in this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Nicholson
- grid.6518.a0000 0001 2034 5266College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Glenside Campus (1H14), Blackberry Hill, BS16 1DD Bristol, England
| | - Sarah Voss
- grid.6518.a0000 0001 2034 5266College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Glenside Campus (1H14), Blackberry Hill, BS16 1DD Bristol, England
| | - Sarah Black
- grid.499043.30000 0004 0498 1379South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, Eagle Way, EX2 7HY Exeter, England
| | - Hazel Taylor
- grid.410421.20000 0004 0380 7336Research Design Service – South West, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, Upper Maudlin Street, BS2 8AE Bristol, England
| | - David Williams
- grid.6518.a0000 0001 2034 5266College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Glenside Campus (1H14), Blackberry Hill, BS16 1DD Bristol, England
| | - Jonathan Benger
- grid.6518.a0000 0001 2034 5266College of Health, Science and Society, University of the West of England, Glenside Campus (1H14), Blackberry Hill, BS16 1DD Bristol, England ,grid.410421.20000 0004 0380 7336Emergency Department, Bristol Royal Infirmary, University Hospitals Bristol NHS Foundation Trust, BS2 8HW Bristol, England
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Hawley C, Sakr M, Scapinello S, Bjorndalen H. Head injury among older adults and their clinical management: one year of emergency department attendances at a UK trauma center. Brain Inj 2022; 36:868-875. [PMID: 35770937 DOI: 10.1080/02699052.2022.2077989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Primary: describe characteristics of adults aged ≥65 attending the Emergency Department (ED) at one major trauma center. Secondary: examine co-morbidities and complications; identify use of anticoagulant/antiplatelet medication among older adults presenting with Head Injury (HI); assess clinical management against UK guidelines. METHODS All ED admissions were screened prospectively to identify HI using case notes, hospital records and Trauma Audit Research Network data. Data were collected on demographics, cause and severity of injury, co-morbidities, anticoagulation/antiplatelet use, diagnostic imaging and discharge outcomes. RESULTS Over 12 months, 697 patients aged ≥65 years attended the ED for HI, representing over a quarter of adult ED attendances for HI. Mean age was 78.5 years (range 65-106), 395 (56.7%) were female. Most HIs were mild (93.5%) and 86% caused by falls. Three-quarters were discharged without hospital admission. Most had a preexisting medical condition andtaking medications prior to HI. Of these 116 were taking anticoagulants/antiplatelets but only 37 (31.9%) received a head CT scan. Half the patients were given a written HI information sheet at ED discharge. CONCLUSIONS Care of HI in older adults is challenging due to comorbidities. Practising evidence-based clinical management and following guidelines is important, but strict adherence is not common practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carol Hawley
- Honorary Research Fellow, Division of Mental Health and Wellbeing, Warwick Medical School, Coventry, UK
| | - Magdy Sakr
- Consultant in Emergency Medicine, University Hospital Coventry and Warwickshire, Coventry, UK
| | - Sarah Scapinello
- Psychiatrist, Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Harald Bjorndalen
- Specialist Registrar in Anaesthesiology, Drammen Hospital, Drammen, Norway
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Park N, Turcato G, Zaboli A, Santini M, Cipriano A. The state of the art of the management of anticoagulated patients with mild traumatic brain injury in the Emergency Department. EMERGENCY CARE JOURNAL 2022. [DOI: 10.4081/ecj.2022.10640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
The effects of Oral Anticoagulation Therapy (OAT) in older patients who suffered a mild Traumatic Brain Injury (mTBI) are widely debated but still strong guidelines are lacking and clinical approaches and management are sometimes heterogeneous. Different predictors of adverse outcomes were identified in the literature but their use in the decision-making process is unclear. Moreover, there is no consensus on the appropriate length of stay in the Observation Unit nor on the continuation of OAT, even if the diagnosis of life-threatening delayed post-traumatic Intracranial Hemorrhage is rare. The recurrence of a control CT scan is often needless. This review aims to summarize recent scientific literature focusing on patients with mTBI taking OAT and to identify crucial questions on the topic to suggest a best clinical practice.
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Grewal K, Atzema CL, Austin PC, de Wit K, Sharma S, Mittmann N, Borgundvaag B, McLeod SL. Risk of intracranial hemorrhage between different direct oral anticoagulants in older patients seen in the emergency department with a head injury: A population-based cohort study. Thromb Res 2022; 214:47-52. [DOI: 10.1016/j.thromres.2022.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2021] [Revised: 04/06/2022] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Wang S, Meagher M, Mullin E, Brown C, Skicki EJ. Routine Repeat Imaging is Unnecessary for Coagulopathic Patients Sustaining Head Trauma. Am Surg 2022; 88:1754-1759. [PMID: 35337209 DOI: 10.1177/00031348221083935] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION In trauma patients using warfarin, current guidelines recommend computed tomography of the brain (CTH), 24-hour observation, and repeat CTH to monitor for stability. Despite growing evidence of uncommon delayed hemorrhage, this remains standard practice even in mild traumatic brain injury without intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Our study sought to determine the incidence and outcomes of delayed ICH (DICH) in trauma patients on supra-therapeutic warfarin without initial ICH. METHODS A retrospective, single institutional study was performed of all adult trauma patients (>18 years old) who presented on prehospital warfarin with an international normalized ratio (INR) >3 and initial CTH that did not demonstrate ICH. Each of these patients underwent subsequent CTH within 24 hours and any DICH was identified. Those who demonstrated DICH were further examined to identify potential risk factors and outcomes such as need for further imaging or surgical intervention. Analyses were performed using Fisher's exact tests and Student's t-tests. RESULTS 225 patients were identified from January 2015 to April 2021 that met inclusion criteria. Of those identified, only 3 (1.33%) were found to develop any DICH on routine repeat CTH. Identified characteristics did not reach statistical significance due to the low number of DICH. None of the patients with DICH went on to require intervention. CONCLUSION In patients with identified traumatic injury on supra-therapeutic warfarin, an initial CTH without identified ICH alone is an adequate survey. DICH in these patients is uncommon and routine reimaging within 24 hours is unlikely to change clinical management in patients with intact neurologic status.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steadman Wang
- Department of Surgery, Arnot Health Medical Center, Elmira, NY, USA
| | - Mitchell Meagher
- Department of Surgery, Arnot Health Medical Center, Elmira, NY, USA
| | - Emma Mullin
- Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 209639Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Lancaster, PA, USA
| | - Catherine Brown
- Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 209639Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Lancaster, PA, USA
| | - Edward J Skicki
- Trauma and Acute Care Surgery, 209639Penn Medicine Lancaster General Health, Lancaster, PA, USA
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Hughes PG, Alter SM, Greaves SW, Mazer BA, Solano JJ, Shih RD, Clayton LM, Trinh NQ, Lottenberg L, Hughes MJ. Acute and Delayed Intracranial Hemorrhage in Head-Injured Patients on Warfarin versus Direct Oral Anticoagulant Therapy. J Emerg Trauma Shock 2021; 14:123-127. [PMID: 34759629 PMCID: PMC8527063 DOI: 10.4103/jets.jets_139_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2020] [Revised: 11/24/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Direct oral anticoagulant (DOAC) use for thrombosis treatment and prophylaxis is a popular alternative to warfarin. This study compares rates of traumatic intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) for patients on anticoagulant therapies and the effect of combined anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies. METHODS A retrospective observational study of trauma patients was conducted at two level I trauma centers. Patients aged ≥18 years with preinjury use of an anticoagulant (warfarin, rivaroxaban, apixaban, or dabigatran) who sustained a blunt head injury within the past day were included. Patients were evaluated by head CT to evaluate for ICH. RESULTS Three hundred and eighty-eight patients were included (140 on warfarin, 149 on a DOAC, and 99 on combined anticoagulant and antiplatelet therapies). Seventy-nine patients (20.4%) had an acute ICH, while 16 patients (4.1%) had a delayed ICH found on routine repeat CT. Those on combination therapy were not at increased risk of acute ICH (relative risk [RR] 0.90, confidence interval [CI]: 0.56-1.44; P > 0.5) or delayed ICH (RR 2.19, CI: 0.84-5.69; P = 0.10) compared to anticoagulant use only. Those on warfarin were at increased risk of acute ICH (RR 1.75, CI: 1.10-2.78, P = 0.015), but not delayed ICH (RR 0.99, CI 0.27-3.59, P > 0.5), compared to those on DOACs. No delayed ICH patients died or required neurosurgical intervention. CONCLUSION Patients on warfarin had a higher rate of acute ICH, but not delayed ICH, compared to those on DOACs. Given the low rate of delayed ICH with no resultant morbidity or mortality, routine observation and repeat head CT on patients with no acute ICH may not be necessary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrick G. Hughes
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Scott M. Alter
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Spencer W. Greaves
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Benjamin A. Mazer
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Joshua J. Solano
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Richard D. Shih
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Lisa M. Clayton
- Division of Emergency Medicine, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, FL, USA
| | - Nhat Q. Trinh
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Sparrow Hospital, Lansing, MI, USA
| | - Lawrence Lottenberg
- Department of Surgery, Florida Atlantic University, Charles E. Schmidt College of Medicine, Boca Raton, MI, USA
- St. Mary’s Medical Center, West Palm Beach, FL, USA
| | - Mary J. Hughes
- Department of Osteopathic Medical Specialties, Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine, East Lansing, MI, USA
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Cipriano A, Park N, Pecori A, Bionda A, Bardini M, Frassi F, Lami V, Leoli F, Manca ML, Del Prato S, Santini M, Ghiadoni L. Predictors of post-traumatic complication of mild brain injury in anticoagulated patients: DOACs are safer than VKAs. Intern Emerg Med 2021; 16:1061-1070. [PMID: 33386604 DOI: 10.1007/s11739-020-02576-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
Abstract
Although mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI) in people on oral anticoagulant treatment (OAT) is a frequent challenge for Emergency Department (ED), strong guidelines recommendations are lacking. In the attempt to assess the safety profile of direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) versus vitamin K antagonists (VKAs), we have recruited 473 patients with a MTBI on OAT (43.6% males; age 81.8 ± 8.7 years), admitted to the Pisa's University Hospital ED (Jan 2016-Oct 2018). All patients underwent a head CT scan with those with no sign of acute bleedings remaining under clinical observation for the ensuing 24 h. Fifty patients (10.6%, 95% CI: 8.1-13.7%) had immediate intracranial hemorrhage (ICH), with a prevalence of patient-important outcomes due to immediate ICH of 1.1% (95% CI 0.4-2.4%); 3 patients died (0.6%, 95% CI 0.2-1.8) and 2 required neurosurgical intervention. Immediate ICHs were more frequent in VKA-treated than in DOAC-treated patients (15.9 vs. 6.4%. RR 2.5. 95%CI 1.4-4.4. p < 0.05). Multivariate analysis identified that post-traumatic amnesia, evidence of trauma above clavicles, high blood glucose, high blood pressure (BP) at arrival, and low prothrombin activity were predictors of immediate ICH. The prevalence of delayed ICH was 1.0% (95%CI 0.4-2.5%) without differences between DOACs and VKAs. Despite ICH being a frequent complication of MTBI in patients on OAT, immediate and delayed patient-important outcomes are rare. DOACs have a better safety profile than VKAs. Simple clinical parameters such as blood pressure at arrival or blood glucose might provide useful predictors of immediate ICH.Trial registration number: 11924_CIPRIANO. Local ethics committee approval number 33096.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Cipriano
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Naria Park
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessio Pecori
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alessandra Bionda
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Michele Bardini
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Frassi
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valentina Lami
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesco Leoli
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Maria Laura Manca
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stefano Del Prato
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Massimo Santini
- U.O. Medicina D'Urgenza E Pronto Soccorso, Emergency Department, Nuovo Santa Chiara Hospital, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Lorenzo Ghiadoni
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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13
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Dwarakanath S, Deora H. Management Dilemmas in Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury on Anticoagulants. INDIAN JOURNAL OF NEUROTRAUMA 2020. [DOI: 10.1055/s-0040-1713348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction A normal individual with normal hemostasis maintains a balance between thrombus formation and destruction using a complex interaction between the smooth vascular endothelium, the coagulation cascade, the platelet aggregation system, and the fibrinolysis mechanism. However, in patients who are on either antiplatelet drugs (APDs) or anticoagulants (ACDs), this normal homeostasis is altered. This is further altered with traumatic brain injury (TBI) and thus, we need specific guidelines to address this subpopulation to decide the length of observation, avoid unnecessary hospitalization, and relieve the economic burden. There exists a very few randomized controlled trials (RCTs) for this clinical question and a thorough risk–benefit analysis for each patient is prudent before making clinical decisions.
Materials and Methods This is a review article based on available evidence published in literature.
Results There are multiple therapeutic drugs which act on various stages of the coagulation mechanism. These include antiplatelet agents, Vitamin K antagonists, Heparin, Antithrombin III, and Glycoprotein IIb/IIIA inhibitors. While the initial management of head injuries depends on the severity of head injuries, management of head injuries in patients on anticoagulants needs to be approached with care and caution. There are multiple dilemmas including role of CT scans, duration and reason for admission, when to restart anticoagulation, etc. We suggest the recommendations based on available literature; however, no evidence can be given as these are not based on any RCTs, due to paucity of such studies.
Conclusion The guidelines are based on previously conducted trials and consensus. We have attempted to provide a pragmatic and practical approach to such cases with the hope that it will ensure minimum risks with the best possible patient outcomes. The entire journey from patient presentation to follow-up has been covered in this article and we hope this would be useful to all practicing in the field of neurotrauma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Srinivas Dwarakanath
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
| | - Harsh Deora
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bengaluru, Karnataka, India
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Fuller G, Sabir L, Evans R, Bradbury D, Kuczawski M, Mason SM. Risk of significant traumatic brain injury in adults with minor head injury taking direct oral anticoagulants: a cohort study and updated meta-analysis. Emerg Med J 2020; 37:666-673. [PMID: 32900858 DOI: 10.1136/emermed-2019-209307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2019] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) commonly undergo CT head imaging after minor head injury, regardless of symptoms or signs. However, the risk of intracranial haemorrhage (ICH) in such patients is unclear, and further research has been recommended by the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence head injury guideline group. METHODS An observational cohort study was performed in the UK South Yorkshire major trauma centre between 26 June and 3 September 2018. Adult patients taking DOACs with minor head injury were prospectively identified, with case ascertainment supplemented by screening of radiology and ED information technology systems. Clinical and outcome data were subsequently collated from patient records. The primary endpoint was adverse outcome within 30 days, comprising: neurosurgery, ICH or death due to head injury. A previously published meta-analysis was updated with the current results and the findings of other recent studies. RESULTS 148 patients with minor head injury were included (GCS 15, n=107, 72%; GCS 14, n=41, 28%). Patients were elderly (median 82 years) and most frequently injured from ground level falls (n=142, 96%). Overall risk of adverse outcome was 3.4% (5/148, 95% CI 1.4% to 8.0%). Five patients had ICH, of whom one died within 30 days. One patient was treated with prothrombin complex concentrate but no patient received critical care management or underwent neurosurgical intervention. Updated random effects meta-analysis, including the current results and two further recent studies, showed a weighted overall risk of adverse outcome of 3.2% (n=29/787, 95% CI 2.0% to 4.4%). CONCLUSIONS The risk of adverse outcome following mild head injury in patients taking DOACs appears low. These findings would support shared patient-clinician decision making, rather than routine imaging, following minor head injury while taking DOACs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gordon Fuller
- Center for Urgent and Emergency Care Research, School of Health and Related Research, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Lisa Sabir
- Center for Urgent and Emergency Care Research, School of Health and Related Research, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Rachel Evans
- Center for Urgent and Emergency Care Research, School of Health and Related Research, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Daniel Bradbury
- Emergency Department, Northern General Hospital, Sheffield Teaching Hospitals, Sheffield, UK
| | - Maxine Kuczawski
- Center for Urgent and Emergency Care Research, School of Health and Related Research, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
| | - Suzanne M Mason
- Center for Urgent and Emergency Care Research, School of Health and Related Research, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, UK
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Ricaurte D, Slack D, Gilson A, Nowicki M, Nelson M, Feinn R, Zdankiewicz P. Head injury alert: A new level of trauma activation? TRAUMA-ENGLAND 2020. [DOI: 10.1177/1460408619871811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
IntroductionTrauma activation requires mobilization of significant resources to be available at short notice. In 2014, the American College of Surgeons Committee on Trauma issued its latest recommendations for care of the injured patient. Amongst trauma activation criteria, elderly patients that fell from any height on anticoagulation were included. We hypothesized that a reduced trauma team could preserve patient safety while reducing time and cost spent.MethodA ‘Head Injury Alert’ was created to denote anti-coagulated patients with a GCS > 14 who fell from a height of <20 feet. An ED attending, surgical resident and one nurse evaluate the patient with the goal of obtaining a head CT within 30 min of presentation. Data were prospectively acquired from June 2017 to August 2018, which included age, anticoagulation, injury severity score (ISS), time-to-CT, outcomes, missed injuries, disposition and activations requiring escalation of care.ResultsTwo hundred and seventy-seven head injury activations occurred; 55% of patients were female, while 45% were male. Average age was 78 years old. The most common anticoagulant was Warfarin (31%). 50% of patients were discharged, 47% were admitted, 2% died before disposition and 1% were transferred to a tertiary care center; 7% required admission to the ICU. The average time-to-CT was 25 min and ISS ranged from 0 to 26. Twenty-two patients (7%) presented with positive head CT. Of the five deaths, three patients had intracranial hemorrhage, one pneumonia present on admission and one cardiac arrest.ConclusionThis level III evidence, prospective study suggests head injury alert can be safely applied as a new level of trauma activation at community hospitals. It helps identify a specific patient population and injury mechanism that can be safely triaged using limited resources. With this, community hospitals can maximize their resources and minimize cost, while maintaining patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Aaron Gilson
- Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Tennessee, Knoxville, TN, USA
| | | | | | - Richard Feinn
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences, Quinnipiac University, Hamden, CT, USA
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Green L, Selleck L, Gibbons M, Klim S, Ritchie P, Patel R, Pham CCHP, Kelly AM. Does the evidence justify routine transfer of residents of aged care facilities for CT scan after minor head trauma? Intern Med J 2020; 50:1048-1052. [PMID: 32092229 DOI: 10.1111/imj.14808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2020] [Revised: 02/10/2020] [Accepted: 02/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In 2014, the South Australian coroner recommended that residents of residential aged care facilities (RACF) who had sustained a head injury should be transported to emergency departments (ED) for assessment and a head CT scan, with the view to preventing mortality. The evidence base for the recommendation is unclear. AIMS To determine the rate of emergent intervention (neurosurgery, transfusion of blood products or reversal of anti-coagulation) in residents transferred to ED with minor head trauma who had their usual cognitive function on ED assessment. METHODS This was a retrospective cohort study by medical records review at two university-affiliated community ED. Participants were patients from RACF attending ED who had suffered minor head trauma and had their usual cognitive function. Exclusions were altered conscious state, new neurological findings or associated orthopaedic injury requiring hospital admission. The primary outcome was rate of emergent intervention in residents transferred to ED with minor head trauma who had their usual cognitive function on ED assessment. RESULTS A total of 366 patients was studied; median age 86 years, 45% taking anti-coagulant/anti-platelet medication. Eighty per cent underwent head CT. Six per cent had intracranial haemorrhage (ICH; 95% CI 4-8.9%). No patient underwent neurosurgery. One had emergent intervention, reversal of anti-coagulation (0.3%, 95% CI 0.05-1.5%). CONCLUSION The rate of emergent intervention for ICH in patients from RACF who sustained a minor head trauma but had their normal cognitive function was <1%. None underwent neurosurgical intervention. The low rate of intervention seriously challenges the appropriateness of routine transfer and CT for this patient group.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorne Green
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Western Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Lucy Selleck
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Western Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Michael Gibbons
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Western Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Sharon Klim
- Joseph Epstein Centre for Emergency Medicine Research at Western Health, St Albans, Victoria, Australia
| | - Peter Ritchie
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Western Health, Victoria, Australia
| | - Rajesh Patel
- Joseph Epstein Centre for Emergency Medicine Research at Western Health, St Albans, Victoria, Australia
| | | | - Anne-Maree Kelly
- Joseph Epstein Centre for Emergency Medicine Research at Western Health, St Albans, Victoria, Australia.,Department of Medicine, Melbourne Medical School - Western Precinct, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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17
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Dec KL, Kelly KC, Gilman JB. Management of Adult Sports Concussion. Concussion 2020. [DOI: 10.1016/b978-0-323-65384-8.00011-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
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Stephen S, Wong EWW, Idris AM, Lim AKH. Intracranial haemorrhage detected by cerebral computed tomography after falls in hospital acute medical wards. BMC Health Serv Res 2019; 19:792. [PMID: 31684952 PMCID: PMC6829924 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-019-4634-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2018] [Accepted: 10/14/2019] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background There is little published data on brain imaging and intracranial haemorrhage after hospital inpatient falls. Imaging protocols for inpatient falls have been adopted from head injury guidelines developed from data in patients presenting to the Emergency Department. We sought to describe the use of brain computed tomography (CT) following inpatient falls, and determine the incidence and potential risk factors for intracranial haemorrhage. Methods We identified inpatient falls in acute medical wards at Monash Health, a large hospital network in the southeast region of Melbourne in Australia, from the incident reporting system during a 32 month period. We examined the post-fall medical assessment form, neurological observation chart and the diagnostic imaging system for details of the fall and brain CT findings. We used survival analysis to evaluate the timeliness of brain imaging and determined potential risk factors for intracranial haemorrhage by logistic regression. Results From 934 falls in 789 medical inpatients, 191 brain CT scans were performed. The median age of patients was 77 years. Only 55% of falls were from standing height and 24% experienced a head strike. Less than 10% of patients received an urgent scan within one hour, and timeliness of imaging was influenced by anticoagulation status rather than guideline determination of urgency. The overall incidence of intracranial haemorrhage was 0.9%. The factors associated with intracranial haemorrhage were head strike, anticoagulation, loss of consciousness or amnesia, drop in Glasgow Coma Scale and advanced chronic kidney disease. Conclusions The incidence of intracranial haemorrhage was low as most inpatient falls were at low risk for head injury. Research is needed to determine if guidelines specific for hospital inpatients may reduce unnecessary scans without compromising case detection, and improve timeliness of urgent scans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiny Stephen
- Department of General Medicine, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Elena W W Wong
- Department of General Medicine, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Adam M Idris
- Department of General Medicine, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Andy K H Lim
- Department of General Medicine, Monash Health, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia. .,Department of Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia. .,Dandenong Hospital, Monash Health, 135 David Street, Dandenong, Victoria 3175, Australia.
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Marques RSF, Antunes C, Machado MJ, Ramos R, Duarte N, Oliveira L, Alegria C, Sousa N. Reappraising the need for a control CT in mild head injury patients on anticoagulation. Eur J Trauma Emerg Surg 2019; 47:1461-1466. [DOI: 10.1007/s00068-019-01172-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2019] [Accepted: 06/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
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Wiegele M, Schöchl H, Haushofer A, Ortler M, Leitgeb J, Kwasny O, Beer R, Ay C, Schaden E. Diagnostic and therapeutic approach in adult patients with traumatic brain injury receiving oral anticoagulant therapy: an Austrian interdisciplinary consensus statement. Crit Care 2019; 23:62. [PMID: 30795779 PMCID: PMC6387521 DOI: 10.1186/s13054-019-2352-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2018] [Accepted: 02/10/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a high degree of uncertainty regarding optimum care of patients with potential or known intake of oral anticoagulants and traumatic brain injury (TBI). Anticoagulation therapy aggravates the risk of intracerebral hemorrhage but, on the other hand, patients take anticoagulants because of an underlying prothrombotic risk, and this could be increased following trauma. Treatment decisions must be taken with due consideration of both these risks. An interdisciplinary group of Austrian experts was convened to develop recommendations for best clinical practice. The aim was to provide pragmatic, clear, and easy-to-follow clinical guidance for coagulation management in adult patients with TBI and potential or known intake of platelet inhibitors, vitamin K antagonists, or non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants. Diagnosis, coagulation testing, and reversal of anticoagulation were considered as key steps upon presentation. Post-trauma management (prophylaxis for thromboembolism and resumption of long-term anticoagulation therapy) was also explored. The lack of robust evidence on which to base treatment recommendations highlights the need for randomized controlled trials in this setting.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marion Wiegele
- Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Division of General Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Herbert Schöchl
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, AUVA Trauma Centre Salzburg, Academic Teaching Hospital of the Paracelsus Medical University, Dr. Franz Rehrl Platz 5, 5020 Salzburg, Austria
- Ludwig Boltzmann Institute for Experimental and Clinical Traumatology, AUVA Research Centre, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander Haushofer
- Central Laboratory, Klinikum Wels-Grieskirchen, Grieskirchner Str. 42, 4600 Wels, Austria
| | - Martin Ortler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Krankenhaus Rudolfstiftung, Juchgasse 25, 1030 Vienna, Austria
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of Innsbruck, Innrain 52, Christoph-Probst-Platz, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Johannes Leitgeb
- University Departments of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Division of Trauma Surgery, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Oskar Kwasny
- Department for Surgery and Sports Traumatology, Kepler University Hospital–Med Campus III, Krankenhausstraße 9, 4020 Linz, Austria
| | - Ronny Beer
- Neurocritical Care, Department of Neurology, Medical University of Innsbruck, Anichstrasse 35, 6020 Innsbruck, Austria
| | - Cihan Ay
- Department of Medicine I, Clinical Division of Haematology and Haemostaseology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
| | - Eva Schaden
- Department of Anaesthesia, Critical Care and Pain Medicine, Division of General Anaesthesia and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090 Vienna, Austria
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Should Adults With Mild Head Injury Who Are Receiving Direct Oral Anticoagulants Undergo Computed Tomography Scanning? A Systematic Review. Ann Emerg Med 2019; 73:66-75. [DOI: 10.1016/j.annemergmed.2018.07.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2018] [Revised: 07/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/17/2018] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
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Marcia L, Moazzez A, Plurad DS, Putnam B, Kim DY. Utility of Repeat Head CT in Patients on Preinjury Antithrombotic Medications. Am Surg 2018. [DOI: 10.1177/000313481808401018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Presently, there are no standardized guidelines regarding the necessity or timing of repeat head imaging in patients on antithrombotics (antiplatelet agents, warfarin, or novel oral anticoagulants) with suspected traumatic brain injury. This is a two-year single institutional retrospective analysis of patients with suspected traumatic brain injury on antithrombotic medications. Patients with a stable or negative repeat head CT were compared with patients who developed a new bleed or demonstrated progression of intracranial hemorrhage (ICH). Of 110 patients, 55 patients (50%) had a positive initial CT, two patients (1.8%) developed a new bleed after initially normal head CT, and 21 patients (19.1%) demonstrated worsening ICH. Patients with worsening or delayed ICH had a higher median Injury Severity Score (14 vs 5, P < 0.001), higher head/neck and face Abbreviated Injury Severity scores (both P < 0.05), and were more likely to be receiving combination therapy with warfarin and clopidogrel (4.3% vs 0%, P = 0.05). On multivariate analysis, lower face and head/neck Abbreviated Injury Severity scores were associated with a decreased risk for delayed or worsening hemorrhage (odds ratio = 0.21 and 0.46, respectively, P < 0.05). Repeat head CT in patients on a preinjury antithrombotic has a low yield. The use of combination therapy may result in an increased risk for delayed hemorrhage or hemorrhage progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lobsang Marcia
- Division of Trauma/Acute Care Surgery/Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Ashkan Moazzez
- Division of Trauma/Acute Care Surgery/Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - David S. Plurad
- Division of Trauma/Acute Care Surgery/Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Brant Putnam
- Division of Trauma/Acute Care Surgery/Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
| | - Dennis Y. Kim
- Division of Trauma/Acute Care Surgery/Surgical Critical Care, Department of Surgery, Harbor-UCLA Medical Center, Torrance, California
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