Comprehensive approach to the management of the patient with multiple rib fractures: a review and introduction of a bundled rib fracture management protocol

Ultrasound-guided percutaneous cryoneurolysis of intercostal nerves in traumatic rib fractures

BACKGROUND

Multimodal pain control is the cornerstone of managing acute traumatic rib fractures. We employed surgeon-administered, ultrasound-guided percutaneous cryoneurolysis of intercostal nerves (USPCNIN) as an adjunct opioid-sparing analgesic modality at the bedside.

METHODS

This was a single-institution case series. Patients between 18-64 years of age who sustained traumatic rib fracture between ribs 3-9, deemed ineligible for surgical stabilization, and had pre-procedure numeric pain scores ≥5 underwent USPCNIN within 24 h of study enrollment by an attending chest wall surgeon. Primary outcomes were changes in daily narcotic use and numeric pain score from pre-intervention up to 30-day follow-up visits. Additional outcomes included hospital length of stay, procedure-related adverse events, and rib-specific readmission.

RESULTS

Fifteen patients were identified. Median (IQR) patient age was 52 (43, 58) years and four (27 %) were female. Median (IQR) number of rib fractures was 5 (4, 8). Median (IQR) hospital length of stay was 4 (3, 7) days. Daily opioid use (measured in morphine milligram equivalents, MME) and present pain intensity (PPI) decreased significantly from pre-intervention to hospital discharge (median MME 96.5 vs. 49.5, p = 0.043; median PPI 10 vs. 7, p = 0.020). Twelve patients completed 30-day follow-up and had significantly decreased MME and PPI from hospital discharge (median MME 62.3 vs. 5, p = 0.014; median PPI 6.5 vs. 3, p = 0.001). There were no complications directly attributable to the procedure. There were no rib-specific readmissions.

CONCLUSION

USPCNIN is a minimally-invasive, bedside procedure that can be safely performed by trauma surgeons and augment pain control for acute traumatic rib fractures.

Acute management of adults following chest wall injury: An assessment of institutional clinical practice guidelines across the UK and synthesis of care recommendations

OBJECTIVE

Chest wall injury causes significant morbidity and mortality. There is uncertainty regarding many aspects of clinical care for these patients, including optimal analgesia, acuity of monitoring and surgical fixation. Our aim in this work is to [1] objectively appraise the quality and extent of heterogeneity in UK major trauma centre (MTC) clinical practice guidelines regarding the management of chest wall injury; and [2] narratively summarise clinical and care process recommendations from these guidelines to provide a comparative description of recommendations between institutions.

METHODS

All major trauma centres in England and Wales were contacted for their institutional clinical practice guidelines relevant to chest wall injury. A literature search was executed seeking eligible supra-regional, national or international consensus documents or guidelines to serve as reference standards. Interrogation of the reference standard guidelines was performed to identify key clinical and care processes against which two blinded assessors judged the clinical validity of institutional clinical practice guidelines as part of the Appraisal of Guidelines for Research & Evaluation II Global Rating Scale (AGREE II-GRS) tool.

RESULTS

We received 17 institutional clinical practice guidelines and identified themes of care from seven reference standards identified during our literature search. Four institutional clinical practice guidelines were assessed as high-quality by pre-specified AGREE II-GRS criteria. Guidelines scored highly for the quality of their presentation of information (median (interquartile range [IQR]) AGREE II-GRS Item5 score 5 (4.5-5.5)); however, the quality of guideline development methodology and the guideline completeness in comprehensively addressing the needs of this population was generally poor (median (IQR) AGREE II-GRS Item1 methodology score 2.92 (2.33-5.25); AGREE II-GRS Item3 completeness score 2.63 (1.75-5.25) respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

This work highlights the paucity of high-quality local clinical practice guidelines to inform the management of adults with chest wall injury admitted to UK MTCs. Although some degree of variation between local guidelines is acceptable, we have identified substantial heterogeneity in the clinical care recommendations between institutions.

Risk factors and resolution of patient-reported pain and mental health symptoms following rib fracture(s)

BACKGROUND

Rib fractures, constituting 10% to 15% of trauma admissions, contribute significantly to morbidity and mortality. Effective postdischarge patient care remains a challenge. Our system has operationalized patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) via a mobile platform into routine postdischarge monitoring for rib fracture patients. This study aimed to use PROMs to investigate the association between patient factors and postdischarge pain and mental health.

METHODS

We collected PROMs from nine Midwest trauma hospitals (2021-2022) using a mobile platform. The platform provided automated check-ins, education, health reminders, and 24/7 monitored interventions based on PROM responses. Multivariate logistic regression was used to investigate the association of patient factors for the primary outcome. The primary outcome was pain 2 weeks postdischarge (days 4-14). Secondary outcomes were mental health at 1 week, with long-term assessments at one and 3 months.

RESULTS

Of 72 patients, 55.6% reported moderate to severe pain at 2 weeks, with higher admission pain scores associated with increased pain (odds ratio, 1.69; 95% confidence interval, 1.15-2.5; p < 0.01). By 4 weeks, 29.4% of responding patients reported persistent moderate-to-severe pain, decreasing to 4.0% by 12 weeks. Patients with moderate-to-severe pain within the first 2 weeks also reported significantly higher rates of mental health symptoms at (44.8% vs. 16.7%) compared with mild pain. By weeks 4 and 12, mental health differences between pain groups were insignificant.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests a potential link between early pain and mental health symptoms. In addition, higher pain at admission may predict worse pain outcomes 2 weeks postdischarge. Patients in our cohort showed improvement in both pain and mental health symptoms within 4 to 12 weeks. These findings highlight the opportunity for PROMs and mobile apps to support optimal postdischarge follow-up and help minimize persistent pain, particularly for rib fracture patients with identifiable risk factors.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.

Use of fascial plane blocks for traumatic rib fractures: a scoping review

BACKGROUND

The primary cause of morbidity and mortality in traumatic rib fractures is respiratory complications due to compromised respiratory mechanics secondary to pain and opioid-related respiratory depression. Thoracic epidural analgesia (TEA) provides effective analgesia but may not be possible in patients due to spinal cord injuries, thoracic vertebral fractures, and coagulopathy. New thoracic fascial plane blocks provide new options for patients with multiple rib fractures (MRFs).

OBJECTIVE

Our primary objective was to assess the effectiveness of thoracic fascial plane blocks for patients with MRFs by looking at pain control, opioid consumption, and respiratory function postblock compared with preblock.

EVIDENCE REVIEW

Literature was searched using keywords and controlled terms, based on the two concepts "rib fractures" and "fascial plane blocks". Terms were searched in PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials and Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, Web of Science, Scopus, Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov from inception to October 11, 2023, using medical subject headings (MeSH) and free-text terms without date or language restrictions. The terms included rib fractures, thoracic trauma, chest injuries, fascial plane blocks, PEC 1, PEC 2, PEC 3, pectoralis plane, serratus anterior plane (SAPB) and erector spinae plane block.

FINDINGS

The available evidence shows that erector spinae plane block and SAPB are effective blocks to provide analgesia and reduce opioid requirements in patients with unilateral or bilateral rib fractures.

CONCLUSIONS

More randomized control studies are needed to compare these blocks with paravertebral block or TEA to see if they provide analgesia, improve respiratory function, and reduce opioid requirements.

Empowering recovery: a remote spirometry system and mobile app for monitoring and promoting pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with rib fracture

Background

Multiple rib fractures commonly result from blunt chest trauma. These fractures can lead to prolonged impairment in pulmonary function and often require long-term rehabilitation. This pilot study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a remote spirometry device for continuous monitoring of lung function in patients with multiple rib fractures.

Methods

Between January 2021 and April 2021, we implemented a remote spirometry system for adult patients with multiple rib fractures and collected their clinical data. We used a Restart system to monitor the respiratory parameters of patients. This system included a wireless spirometer and a Healthy Lung mobile application. A portable spirometer was used to measure forced vital capacity (FVC), peak expiratory flow (PEF), and forced expiratory volume in 1 second.

Result

In total, 21 patients were included in this study. We categorized the participants into two age groups: those older and those younger than 65 years. No significant differences were observed between the two groups regarding demographic characteristics or device adoption rates. However, we observed that patients under 65 years demonstrated more remarkable improvement in pulmonary function than their older counterparts, with significant differences in FVC (110% vs 10%, p=0.032) and PEF (64.2% vs 11.9%, p=0.003).

Conclusion

The adoption of the remote spirometry device is similar between older and younger patients with rib fractures. However, the device improves pulmonary function more in patients in a younger age group. This tool may be effective as a real-time, continuous pulmonary function monitoring system for patients with multiple rib fractures.

Level of evidence

Level IV.

Implementation of a Modified Pain, Inspiration, Cough Protocol in Patients With Traumatic Rib Fractures

INTRODUCTION

Patients with blunt chest wall injuries and rib fractures are known to have high rates of atelectasis, pneumonia, pulmonary contusion, and can develop acute respiratory distress syndrome. This can lead to ventilator requirement and dependence, deconditioning secondary to uncontrolled pain, and increased hospital length of stay (LOS). Many studies in the literature have developed triage algorithms in patients with rib fractures to guide disposition and management, and several institutions have gone on to describe their institution-specific management protocols to decrease complications related to traumatic rib fractures. The purpose of our study was to examine rates of in-hospital complications in patients with traumatic rib fractures before and after the implementation of a modified PIC (pain, inspiration, cough, designated as mPIC) protocol at our institution.

METHODS

A retrospective review of patients presenting to our hospital with traumatic rib fractures were reviewed between 2019 and 2022, with inclusion of 820 patients. Information was collected on patients' demographics, mPIC score, components of their multimodal pain regimen, whether a local nerve block was performed, LOS, intubation rates, and early mobilization. Statistical analyses were performed and all results with a value of P value of <0.05 deemed statistically significant.

RESULTS

Our results show that implementation of our mPIC protocol was associated with dramatically reduced rates of intubation in patient with traumatic rib fractures (18.2% versus 3.0%, P < 0.001), regardless of patient's age, sex, race, or number of rib fractures. Furthermore, we also observed that patients with an Injury Severity Score (ISS) greater than 25 were less likely to be intubated after protocol implementation, (65.0% versus 16.7%, P < 0.001). We were able to see an associated significant decrease in overall LOS after implementation of the protocol, 5 d versus 4 d (P < 0.001); this association was seen even when stratified by race, age, number of rib fractures, sex, and ISS. We noted that with the addition of a multimodal pain regimen, other than the use of oxycodone, there was no associated overall difference in LOS preprotocol or postprotocol implementation. We also found that the implementation of early mobilization also correlated with a decreased overall LOS (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with traumatic rib fractures have many pulmonary complications that lead to increased use of hospital resources, increased hospital LOS and increased ventilator dependence. With implementation of our standardized mPIC protocol at our institution, we observed factors such as multimodal analgesia and early mobilization contributed to an associated statistically significant decrease in hospital LOS, even when stratified by age, sex, race, number of rib fractures, and moderate ISS or higher. We were also able to see an associated decrease in intubation rates among patients with traumatic rib fractures. Implementing such a protocol can, therefore, aid in diminishing the potential morbidities associated with traumatic rib fractures.

Post-discharge complications and follow-up timing after hospitalization for traumatic rib fractures

PURPOSE

To evaluate frequency and timing of post-discharge complications in patients with traumatic rib fractures undergoing operative or nonoperative management.

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed adult patients with rib fractures admitted to a Level 1 trauma center from 1/2020 to 12/2021. Outcomes included rib-related complications, pneumonia within 1 month, new diagnosis of opioid- or alcohol-use disorder, and all-cause mortality. Patients were stratified on whether they underwent surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF). Associations between risk factors and outcomes were evaluated through Fine and Gray hazard models with death (or in-hospital death for the post-discharge death outcome) as a competing risk.

RESULTS

Of 976 patients admitted with rib fractures, 904(93%) underwent non-operative therapy and 72(7%) underwent SSRF. Nonoperative patients had less-severe injuries and shorter ICU length-of-stay. Rib-related complications occurred in 13(1%) nonsurgical patients and 4(6%) surgical patients. In the nonsurgical group, presence of hemo/pneumothorax on admission was associated with increased risk of rib-related complications [subdistribution hazard ratio (SHR) (95% CI): 5.95(1.8, 19.67)]. Pneumonia within 1 month occurred in 9(1%) nonsurgical patients and 1(1%) surgical patient. New diagnosis of alcohol or opioid-use disorder was made in 14(2%) nonsurgical patients and 1(1%) surgical patients. All-cause mortality was 68(8%) in the nonsurgical group and 2(3%) in the surgical group. Older age was associated with mortality in the nonsurgical cohort [SHR (95% CI): 1.83(1.46, 2.28)].

CONCLUSION

Post-discharge rib-related complications were rare in both groups, but occurred primarily within 2 weeks, suggesting concentrated earlier follow-up may be beneficial. These findings help inform recommendations for follow-up in this population.

Ultrasound-guided deep versus superficial continuous serratus anterior plane block for pain management in patients with multiple rib fractures: A prospective randomized double-blind clinical trial

Background

Efficient analgesia is the cornerstone in multiple rib fractures (MRFs) management. The serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) shows promising outcomes. However, it is still provocative whether the superficial or deep approach is more effective in the SAPB procedure. We hypothesized that the deep approach of ultrasound (US)-guided continuous SAPB could be superior for MRFs pain management.

Methods

Sixty-two adult patients having unilateral MRFs, were randomized into two groups to receive continuous superficial SAPB (group S, n = 31) or continuous deep SAPB (group D, n = 31). As a primary outcome, we compared pain numeric rating scale (NRS), while total analgesic consumption, incentive spirometer volume (IS-V), lung ultrasound score (LUSS), basal and 24-h serum beta-endorphin (BE) levels, and any adverse events were secondary outcomes.

Results

There was a significant reduction in NRS in favor of group D when compared to group S at 30 minutes (P = 0.001) until 12 hours (P = 0.029); total analgesic consumption was significantly lower in group D (P = 0.005). A significant increase in the median IS-V in group D compared to group S at 90 minutes (P = 0.02) and 12h postblock (P = 0.004) LUSS was significantly lower in D group at 90 min, 12 h, and 24 h (P = 0.04, 0.001, 0.031). No significant differences as regards serum BE levels. No adverse events were noted.

Conclusion

Either superficial or deep continuous SAPB can be used safely and effectively in managing pain related to MRFs. Notably, the deep approach offered superior analgesia and improved deep breathing compared to the superficial.

Prevalence of and factors associated with trauma surgeons' referral and patients' willingness to acupuncture treatment after traumatic rib fractures: A single-center cross-sectional study

Background

Pain after traumatic rib fractures (TRF) detrimentally affects the injured. Multidisciplinary pain management is crucial for patient care. There is little empirical evidence on acupuncture as a multidisciplinary treatment for patients with TRF. This study aimed to illustrate the characteristics of the patients referred for or received acupuncture and explore the associated factors.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional study of Korean Trauma Data Bank and electronic medical records of patients aged 19 or older with TRF from August 2016 to October 2021 in the regional trauma center of Pusan National University Hospital. The sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of patients referred for acupuncture by trauma surgeons and those who received acupuncture were analysed descriptively. In multivariable logistic regression analyses, associations between covariates and either surgeon referrals for or patient willingness to receive acupuncture were quantitatively estimated.

Results

Among 2,937 injured patients, trauma surgeons referred 178 (6.1 %) to acupuncture. Among the referred patients, 111 (72.1 %) underwent acupuncture. Patients with polytrauma (aOR 0.46; 0.30 to 0.68) were less likely to be referred to acupuncture, whereas female patients (aOR 3.92, 1.31 to 11.77) were most likely to receive acupuncture.

Conclusions

A small proportion of patients with TRF were referred for acupuncture, but the referred patients were more likely to receive acupuncture. Polytrauma may be an important criterion for referral to acupuncture services from the perspective of trauma surgeons, while the willingness to receive acupuncture may be associated with gender-related factors. Further studies are warranted to investigate the role of acupuncture in the postinjury care of patients with TRF.

Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) enhances hemodynamic stability decreasing analgesic requirements in surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRFs)

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the efficacy of erector spinae plane block (ESPB) on intraoperative hemodynamic stability, opioid and inhalation anesthetic requirements and postoperative analgesic effects in patients undergoing surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRFs).

METHODS

We retrospectively reviewed 173 patients who underwent surgical stabilization of rib fractures between May 2020 and December 2023. The patients were allocated into the ESPB group or the control group. Demographic data, intraoperative hemodynamic parameters, total intraoperative opioid consumption, the average minimum alveolar concentration (MAC) of inhalational anesthetics, postoperative simple analgesics and opioid consumption and the length of hospital stay were included in the analysis.

RESULTS

Compared with the control group, the ESPB group had a lower heart rate (HR) in the first 90 min after surgical incision and lower systolic blood pressure (SBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) at the beginning of surgery. Intraoperatively, a notable reduction in fentanyl consumption was observed in the ESPB group (p = 0.004), whereas no significant difference was observed in the average MAC of inhalational agents (p = 0.073). Postoperatively, the ESPB group required fewer doses of simple analgesics in the first 24 h (p < 0.001) and 48 h (p = 0.029). No statistically significant difference in the length of hospital stay (p = 0.608) was observed between the groups.

CONCLUSION

ESPB was shown to enhance intraoperative hemodynamic stability, reduce opioid consumption and decrease postoperative analgesic consumption in patients who underwent SSRF. These results suggest that ESPB may serve as a valuable component of multimodal analgesia protocols for SSRF. Larger prospective studies are warranted to confirm the results and evaluate long-term outcomes.

Efficacy of an mHealth intervention to support pain self-management and improve analgesia in patients with rib fractures: protocol for a randomised controlled trial

INTRODUCTION

In light of the risks of over-reliance on opioid analgesia during recovery from rib fractures, there is increased interest in the efficacy of non-pharmacological approaches to pain management. This paper describes the protocol for a double-blind randomised controlled trial to evaluate the efficacy of an mHealth intervention for reducing pain intensity, pain-related distress and opioid use during early recovery from rib fractures.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

Adults (N=120) with isolated rib fractures will be recruited within 24 hours of admission to a large public hospital in Sydney, Australia (single site), and randomised (1:1 allocation) to an intervention or active control group. Clinicians, participants and statisticians will be blind to participants' group allocation. The intervention (PainSupport) consists of a brief pain self-management educational video, followed by twice daily supportive Short Message Service (SMS) text messages for 14 days. Participants in the active control group receive the same video but not the supportive text messages. Participants in both groups continue to receive usual care throughout the trial. The primary outcome will be self-reported pain intensity on respiration measured using a Numerical Rating Scale. Secondary outcomes will include opioid use, pain-related distress, adherence to behavioural pain management strategies and the acceptability and feasibility of the intervention. Participants will complete questionnaires at baseline and then on days 1-7 and day 14 of the trial. A feedback survey will be completed at the end of the trial (day 15). Linear mixed models will be used to evaluate the main effect of the group on the primary and secondary outcomes and to explore differences between outcome trends recorded over the trial. Analyses will be based on the intention-to-treat principle to minimise bias secondary to missing data or dropouts.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

The study protocol has been reviewed and approved by the Northern Sydney Local Health District Human Research Ethics Committee (Australia). Informed consent is a requirement for participation in the study. Study results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at scientific and professional meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12623000006640.

Use of an Integrated Pulmonary Index pathway decreased unplanned ICU admissions in elderly patients with rib fractures

Unplanned intensive care unit (ICU) admission (UIA) is a Trauma Quality Improvement Program benchmark that is associated with increased morbidity, mortality, and length of stay (LOS). Elderly patients with multiple rib fractures are at increased risk of respiratory failure. The Integrated Pulmonary Index (IPI) assesses respiratory compromise by incorporating SpO2, respiratory rate, pulse, and end-tidal CO2 to yield an integer between 1 and 10 (worst and best). We hypothesized that IPI monitoring would decrease UIA for respiratory failure in elderly trauma patients with rib fractures.

Methods

Elderly (≥65 years old) trauma inpatients admitted to a level 1 trauma center from February 2020 to February 2023 were retrospectively studied during the introduction of IPI monitoring on the trauma floor. Patients with ≥4 rib fractures (or ≥2 with history of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) were eligible for IPI monitoring and were compared with a group of chest Abbreviated Injury Scale score of 3 (≥3 rib fractures) patients who received usual care. Nurses contacted the surgeon for IPI ≤7. Patient intervention was left to the discretion of the provider. The primary endpoint was UIA for respiratory failure. Secondary endpoints were overall UIA, mortality, and LOS. Statistical analysis was performed using χ2 test and Student's t-test, with p<0.05 considered significant.

Results

A total of 110 patients received IPI monitoring and were compared with 207 patients who did not. The IPI cohort was comparable to the non-IPI cohort in terms of gender, Injury Severity Score, Abbreviated Injury Scale, mortality, and LOS. There were 16 UIAs in the non-IPI cohort and two in the IPI cohort (p=0.039). There were no UIAs for respiratory failure in the IPI group compared with nine in the non-IPI group (p=0.03).

Conclusion

IPI monitoring is an easy-to-set up tool with minimal risk and was associated with a significant decrease in UIA in elderly patients with rib fracture.

Level of evidence

Level III, therapeutic/care management.

Comparison of thoracic epidural catheter and continuous peripheral infusion for management of traumatic rib fracture pain

BACKGROUND

Thoracic epidural catheters (TECs) are useful adjuncts to multimodal pain regimens in traumatic rib fractures. However, TEC placement is limited by contraindications, patient risk profile, and provider availability. Continuous peripheral infusion of ketamine and/or lidocaine is an alternative that has a modest risk profile and few contraindications. We hypothesized that patients with multiple traumatic rib fractures receiving TECs would have better pain control, in terms of daily morphine milligram equivalents (MMEs) and mean pain scores (MPSs) when compared with continuous peripheral infusions of ketamine and/or lidocaine.

METHODS

We retrospectively analyzed traumatic rib fracture admissions to a level 1 trauma center between January 2018 and December 2020. We evaluated two treatment groups: TEC only and continuous infusion only (drip only). A linear mixed-effects model evaluated the association of MME with treatment group. An interaction term of treatment group by time (days 1-7) was included to allow estimating potential time-dependent treatment effect on MME. A zero-inflated Poisson mixed-effects model evaluated the association of treatment with MPS. Both models adjusted for confounders.

RESULTS

A total of 1,647 patients were included. After multivariable analysis, a significant, time-varying dose-response relationship between treatment group and MME was found, indicating an opioid-sparing effect favoring the TEC-only group. The opioid-sparing benefit for TEC-only therapy was most prominent at day 3 (27.4 vs 36.5 MME) and day 4 (27.3 vs 36.2 MME) (p < 0.01). The drip-only group had 1.21 times greater MPS than patients with TEC only (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Drip-only analgesia is associated with higher daily MME use and MPS, compared with TEC only. The maximal benefit of TEC therapy appears to be on days 3 and 4. Prospective, randomized comparison between groups is necessary to evaluate the magnitude of the treatment effect.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.

Therapeutic efficacy of platelet-rich plasma in the management of rib fractures

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic efficacy of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy in patients with rib fractures.

METHODS

This study retrospectively collected data from patients with acute rib fractures at Ming-Sheng General Hospital from 2020 to 2022 and excluded those who underwent surgical intervention or with severe extrathoracic injuries. PRP was extracted using the patient's blood and injected via ultrasound guidance near the fracture site. Patients self-assessed pain levels and medication usage at 0, 1, 2, 4, and 8 weeks. Pulmonary function tests were conducted at 4 weeks.

RESULTS

This study included 255 patients, with 160 and 95 patients in the conservative (only pain medications administered) and PRP groups (PRP and analgesics administered), respectively. The PRP group reported lower pain levels than the conservative group at 2 and 4 weeks. No substantial differences in medication usage were observed between the groups. The PRP group demonstrated lower pain levels and medication usage than the conservative group in severe rib fractures (≥3 ribs) and better lung function improvement at 4 weeks. After propensity score matching, the PRP group still had a better treatment outcome in pain control and lung function recovery.

CONCLUSION

PRP demonstrated considerable therapeutic efficacy in patients with severe rib fractures, resulting in reduced pain, decreased medication usage, and improved lung function but with no substantial benefits in patients with mild rib fractures.

High-flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy for mild-moderate acute respiratory failure in patients with blunt chest trauma: An exploratory descriptive study

OBJECTIVE

The use of high-flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy is gaining popularity for the treatment of acute respiratory failure (ARF). However, limited evidence exists regarding the effectiveness of HFNC for hypoxemic ARF in patients with blunt chest trauma (BCT).

METHODS

This retrospective analysis focused on BCT patients with mild-moderate hypoxemic ARF who were treated with either HFNC or non-invasive ventilation (NIV) in the emergency medicine department from January 2021 to December 2022. The primary endpoint was treatment failure, defined as either invasive ventilation, or a switch to the other study treatment (NIV for patients in the NFNC group, and vice-versa).

RESULTS

A total of 157 patients with BCT (72 in the HFNC group and 85 in the NIV group) were included in this study. The treatment failure rate in the HFNC group was 11.1% and 16.5% in the NIV group - risk difference of 5.36% (95% CI, -5.94-16.10%; P = 0.366). The most common cause of failure in the HFNC group was aggravation of respiratory distress. While in the NIV group, the most common reason for failure was treatment intolerance. Treatment intolerance in the HFNC group was significantly lower than that in the NIV group (1.4% vs 9.4%, 95% CI 0.40-16.18; P = 0.039). Univariate logistic regression analysis showed that chronic respiratory disease, abbreviated injury scale score (chest) (≥3), Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score (≥15), partial arterial oxygen tension /fraction of inspired oxygen (≤200) at 1 h of treatment and respiratory rate (≥32 /min) at 1 h of treatment were risk factors associated with HFNC failure.

CONCLUSION

In BCT patients with mild-moderate hypoxemic ARF, the usage of HFNC did not lead to higher rate of treatment failure when compared to NIV. HFNC was found to offer better comfort and tolerance than NIV, suggesting it may be a promising new respiratory support therapy for BCT patients with mild-moderate ARF.

Serratus Anterior Plane Blocks for Early Rib Fracture Pain Management: The SABRE Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

Rib fractures secondary to blunt thoracic trauma typically result in severe pain that is notoriously difficult to manage. The serratus anterior plane block (SAPB) is a regional anesthesia technique that provides analgesia to most of the hemithorax; however, SAPB has limited evidence for analgesic benefits in rib fractures.

Objective

To determine whether the addition of an SAPB to protocolized care bundles increases the likelihood of early favorable analgesic outcomes and reduces opioid requirements in patients with rib fractures.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This multicenter, open-label, pragmatic randomized clinical trial was conducted at 8 emergency departments across metropolitan and regional New South Wales, Australia, between April 12, 2021, and January 22, 2022. Patients aged 16 years or older with clinically suspected or radiologically proven rib fractures were included in the study. Participants were excluded if they were intubated, transferred for urgent surgical intervention, or had a major concomitant nonthoracic injury. Data were analyzed from September 2022 to July 2023.

Interventions

Patients were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive an SAPB in addition to usual rib fracture management or standard care alone.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was a composite pain score measured 4 hours after enrollment. Patients met the primary outcome if they had a pain score reduction of 2 or more points and an absolute pain score of less than 4 out of 10 points.

Results

A total of 588 patients were screened, of whom 210 patients (median [IQR] age, 71 [55-84] years; 131 [62%] male) were enrolled, with 105 patients randomized to receive an SAPB plus standard care and 105 patients randomized to standard care alone. In the complete-case intention-to-treat primary outcome analysis, the composite pain score outcome was reached in 38 of 92 patients (41%) in the SAPB group and 18 of 92 patients (19.6%) in the control group (relative risk [RR], 0.73; 95% CI, 0.60-0.89; P = .001). There was a clinically significant reduction in overall opioid consumption in the SAPB group compared with the control group (eg, median [IQR] total opioid requirement at 24 hours: 45 [19-118] vs 91 [34-155] milligram morphine equivalents). Rates of pneumonia (6 patients [10%] vs 7 patients [11%]), length of stay (eg, median [IQR] hospital stay, 4.2 [2.2-7.7] vs 5 [3-7.3] days), and 30-day mortality (1 patient [1%] vs 3 patients [4%]) were similar between the SAPB and control groups.

Conclusions and Relevance

This randomized clinical trial found that the addition of an SAPB to standard rib fracture care significantly increased the proportion of patients who experienced a meaningful reduction in their pain score while also reducing in-hospital opioid requirements.

Trial Registration

http://anzctr.org.au Identifier: ACTRN12621000040864.

Chest trauma clinical practice guideline protects against delirium in patients with rib fractures

Introduction

Traumatic rib fractures present a considerable risk to patient well-being, contributing to morbidity and mortality in trauma patients. To address the risks associated with rib fractures, evidence-based interventions have been implemented, including effective pain management, pulmonary hygiene, and early walking. Vancouver General Hospital, a level 1 trauma center in British Columbia, Canada, developed a comprehensive multidisciplinary chest trauma clinical practice guideline (CTCPG) to optimize the management of patients with rib fractures. This prospective cohort study aimed to assess the impact of the CTCPG on pain management interventions and patient outcomes.

Methods

The study involved patients admitted between January 1, 2021 and December 31, 2021 (post-CTCPG cohort) and a historical control group admitted between November 1, 2018 and December 31, 2019 (pre-CTCPG cohort). Patient data were collected from patient charts and the British Columbia Trauma Registry, including demographics, injury characteristics, pain management interventions, and relevant outcomes.

Results

Implementation of the CTCPG resulted in an increased use of multimodal pain therapy (99.4% vs 96.1%; p=0.03) and a significant reduction in the incidence of delirium in the post-CTCPG cohort (OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.80, p=0.0099). There were no significant differences in hospital length of stay, ICU (intensive care unit) days, non-invasive positive pressure ventilation requirement, ventilator days, pneumonia incidence, or mortality between the two cohorts.

Discussion

Adoption of a CTCPG improved chest trauma management by enhancing pain management and reducing the incidence of delirium. Further research, including multicenter studies, is warranted to validate these findings and explore additional potential benefits of the CTCPG in the management of chest trauma patients.

Level of evidence

IIb.

Blunt mechanism chest wall injury: initial patient assessment and acute care priorities

Blunt mechanism chest wall injury (CWI) is commonly seen in the emergency department (ED), since it is present in around 15% of trauma patients. The thoracic cage protects the heart, lungs and trachea, thereby supporting respiration and circulation, so injury to the thorax can induce potentially life-threatening complications. Systematic care pathways have been shown to improve outcomes for patients presenting with blunt mechanism CWI, but care is not consistent across the UK. Emergency nurses have a crucial role in assessing and treating patients who present to the ED with blunt mechanism CWI. This article discusses the initial assessment and acute care priorities for this patient group. It also presents a prognostic model for predicting the probability of in-hospital complications following blunt mechanism CWI.

Incidence of surgical rib fixation at chest wall injury society collaborative centers and a guide for expected number of cases (CWIS-CC1)

PURPOSE

Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) improves outcomes in certain patient populations. The Chest Wall Injury Society (CWIS) began a new initiative to recognize centers who epitomize their mission as CWIS Collaborative Centers (CWIS-CC). We sought to describe incidence and epidemiology of SSRF at our institutions.

METHODS

A retrospective registry evaluation of all patients (age > 15 years) treated at international trauma centers from 1/1/20 to 7/30/2021 was performed. Variables included: age, gender, mechanism of injury, injury severity score, abbreviated injury severity score (AIS), emergency department disposition, length of stay, presence of rib/sternal fractures, and surgical stabilization of rib/sternal fractures. Classification and regression tree analysis (CART) was used for analysis.

RESULTS

Data were collected from 9 centers, 26,084 patient encounters. Rib fractures were present in 24% (n = 6294). Overall, 2% of all patients underwent SSRF and 8% of patients with rib fractures underwent SSRF. CART analysis of SSRF by AIS-Chest demonstrated a difference in management by age group. AIS-Chest 3 had an SSRF rate of 3.7, 7.3, and 12.9% based on the age ranges (16-19; 80-110), (20-49; 70-79), and (50-69), respectively (p = 0.003). AIS-Chest > 3 demonstrated an SSRF rate of 9.6, 23.3, and 39.3% for age ranges (16-39; 90-99), (40-49; 80-89), and (50-79), respectively (p = 0.001).

CONCLUSION

Anticipated rate of SSRF can be calculated based on number of rib fractures, AIS-Chest, and age. The disproportionate rate of SSRF in patients age 50-69 with AIS-Chest 3 and age 50-79 with AIS-Chest > 3 should be further investigated, as lower frequency of SSRF in the other age ranges may lead to care inequalities.

Analgesia for rib fractures: a narrative review

PURPOSE

Rib fracture(s) is a common and painful injury often associated with significant morbidity (e.g., respiratory complications) and high mortality rates, especially in the elderly. Risk stratification and prompt implementation of analgesic pathways using a multimodal analgesia approach comprise a primary endpoint of care to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with rib fractures. This narrative review aims to describe the most recent evidence and care pathways currently available, including risk stratification tools and pharmacologic and regional analgesic blocks frequently used as part of the broadly recommended multimodal analgesic approach.

SOURCE

Available literature was searched using PubMed and Embase databases for each topic addressed herein and reviewed by content experts.

PRINCIPAL FINDINGS

Four risk stratification tools were identified, with the Study of the Management of Blunt Chest Wall Trauma score as most predictive. Current evidence on pharmacologic (i.e., acetaminophen, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, gabapentinoids, ketamine, lidocaine, and dexmedetomidine) and regional analgesia (i.e., thoracic epidural analgesia, thoracic paravertebral block, erector spinae plane block, and serratus anterior plane block) techniques was reviewed, as was the pathophysiology of rib fracture(s) and its associated complications, including the development of chronic pain and disabilities.

CONCLUSION

Rib fracture(s) continues to be a serious diagnosis, with high rates of mortality, development of chronic pain, and disability. A multidisciplinary approach to management, combined with appropriate analgesia and adherence to care bundles/protocols, has been shown to decrease morbidity and mortality. Most of the risk-stratifying care pathways identified perform poorly in predicting mortality and complications after rib fracture(s).

Management of Blunt Chest Trauma

Common mechanisms of blunt thoracic injury include motor vehicle collisions and falls. Chest wall injuries include rib fractures and sternal fractures; treatment involves supportive care, multimodal analgesia, and pulmonary toilet. Pneumothorax, hemothorax, and pulmonary contusions are also common and may be managed expectantly or with tube thoracostomy as indicated. Surgical treatment may be considered in select cases. Less common injury patterns include blunt trauma to the tracheobronchial tree, esophagus, diaphragm, heart, or aorta. Operative intervention is more often required to address these injuries.

Surgical Rib Fixation is Associated With Lower Mortality in Patients With Traumatic Rib Fractures

INTRODUCTION

Nonoperative management (NOM) along with supportive care has been the adopted approach for traumatic rib fractures; however, surgical approaches have emerged recently to treat this common pathology. Despite this, there are no guidelines for surgical rib fixation in patients with traumatic rib fractures.

METHODS

An institutional review board-approved retrospective cohort study was performed at the Puerto Rico Trauma Hospital aiming to compare the outcomes and complications between patients with traumatic rib fractures who undergo surgical fixation and their counterparts with NOM. The study period comprised from January 2016 through July 2020. Outcomes were evaluated with negative binomial and logistic regressions.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were identified for the surgical rib fixation group, who were matched to 150 patients who received NOM. The majority of patients were male (91.5%), with a median (interquartile range) age of 53 (29) years. Concomitant chest injuries were significantly more prevalent in the operative group, such as flail segment (P < 0.001), number of fractures (P < 0.001), and displaced rib fractures (P < 0.001). Although hospital length of stay was 25% (95% confidence interval: 1.02-1.54) longer in the surgical group, this intervention was associated with an 85% (95% confidence interval: 0.03-0.70) lower mortality rate when compared to conservative management.

CONCLUSIONS

Rib fixation may offer some benefits in selected patients with traumatic rib fractures, such as those with bilateral rib fractures, multiple displaced rib fractures, flail segment, and concomitant thoracic injuries. This study may serve as a guide for treatment strategy and patient selection regarding the surgical management of traumatic rib fractures.

Investigating the link between frailty and outcomes in geriatric patients with isolated rib fractures

Background

Studies have shown an increased risk of morbidity in elderly patients suffering rib fractures from blunt trauma. The association between frailty and rib fractures on adverse outcomes is still ill-defined. In the current investigation, we sought to delineate the association between frailty, measured using the Orthopedic Frailty Score (OFS), and outcomes in geriatric patients with isolated rib fractures.

Methods

All geriatric (aged 65 years or older) patients registered in the 2013-2019 Trauma Quality Improvement database with a conservatively managed isolated rib fracture were considered for inclusion. An isolated rib fracture was defined as the presence of ≥1 rib fracture, a thorax Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) between 1 and 5, an AIS ≤1 in all other regions, as well as the absence of pneumothorax, hemothorax, or pulmonary contusion. Based on patients' OFS, patients were classified as non-frail (OFS 0), pre-frail (OFS 1), or frail (OFS ≥2). The prevalence ratio (PR) of composite complications, in-hospital mortality, failure-to-rescue (FTR), and intensive care unit (ICU) admission between the OFS groups was determined using Poisson regression models to adjust for potential confounding.

Results

A total of 65 375 patients met the study's inclusion criteria of whom 60% were non-frail, 29% were pre-frail, and 11% were frail. There was a stepwise increased risk of complications, in-hospital mortality, and FTR from non-frail to pre-frail and frail. Compared with non-frail patients, frail patients exhibited a 87% increased risk of in-hospital mortality [adjusted PR (95% CI): 1.87 (1.52-2.31), p<0.001], a 44% increased risk of complications [adjusted PR (95% CI): 1.44 (1.23-1.67), p<0.001], a doubling in the risk of FTR [adjusted PR (95% CI): 2.08 (1.45-2.98), p<0.001], and a 17% increased risk of ICU admission [adjusted PR (95% CI): 1.17 (1.11-1.23), p<0.001].

Conclusion

There is a strong association between frailty, measured using the OFS, and adverse outcomes in geriatric patients managed conservatively for rib fractures.

Inadequate Venous Thromboembolism Chemoprophylaxis Is Associated With Higher Venous Thromboembolism Rates Among Trauma Patients With Epidurals

INTRODUCTION

Guidelines encourage higher doses of low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for prophylaxis in trauma patients. The risks of LMWH must be considered for patients who require an epidural catheter. We compared adequate and inadequate prophylaxis to determine if venous thromboembolism (VTE) and complication rates differed among patients with epidural catheters.

METHODS

Trauma patients who required an epidural catheter between 2012 and 2019 were reviewed for VTE and epidural-related complications. Adequate dosing was defined as enoxaparin 30 mg or 40 mg twice daily. Inadequate dosing was defined as unfractionated heparin subcutaneously or enoxaparin once daily.

RESULTS

Over the 8-y study period, 113 trauma patients required an epidural catheter of which 64.6% were males with a mean age of 55.8 y and injury severity score of 14. Epidural catheters were associated with 11 (9.7%) patients developing an acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and 2 (1.8%) patients with an acute pulmonary embolism. Those patients who received adequate doses of enoxaparin were less likely to have any VTE or DVT. Complications associated with epidural catheters were not dependent on the type of pharmacological prophylaxis.

CONCLUSIONS

Given the high VTE rate observed in trauma patients who required an epidural catheter, along with the low complication rate that was observed independent of the type of pharmacological prophylaxis given, the data indicate that current efforts for higher doses of LMWH appear to be safe and associated with a lower VTE rate.

Reduced rates of pneumonia after implementation of an electronic checklist for the management of patients with multiple rib fractures at a Level One Trauma Center

Background

Traumatic rib fractures are associated with increased morbidity and mortality, with complications including pneumothorax, difficult to control pain, and pneumonia. Use of a bundled, multi-disciplinary approach to the care of patients with multiple rib fractures has been shown to reduce morbidity and mortality. In this study, we investigate the implementation of a checklist for the multidisciplinary management of patients with multiple rib fractures who present to an urban, level 1 trauma center and safety-net hospital.

Study design

This was a single-institution, retrospective cohort study to assess changes in treatment characteristics and patient outcomes before and after implementation of a comprehensive checklist for the management of high-risk patients with three or more traumatic rib fractures at a level-one trauma center. The primary outcome was pneumonia rates with secondary outcomes of mechanical ventilation rates and mechanical ventilation days, ICU length of stay, mortality, and non-opioid and opioid consumption (morphine milligram equivalents).

Results

A total of 104 patients met study eligibility, including 51 patients who presented during the pre-protocol period and 53 patients who received care after implementation. We observed that the checklist was utilized and reviewed in 83% of patients during the post-protocol period. Pneumonia rates were significantly lower in the post-protocol group (35.3% vs 15.1%, p = 0.017). There was no difference in the number of patients who required mechanical ventilation or the duration of mechanical ventilation. On unadjusted analysis, median overall length of stay (11.5 days vs 13 days, p = 0.71), median ICU stay (4 days vs 5 days, p = 0.18), and rate of in-hospital mortality (11.8% vs 7.6%, p = 0.47) was not different between the two time periods.

Conclusion

In patients with chest wall trauma and associated rib fractures, implementation of a standardized, multidisciplinary checklist to ensure utilization of multimodal analgesia and non-pharmacological interventions was associated with decreased pneumonia rates at our institution.

Evaluation of Acute Outcomes and Factors Influencing the Care of Chest Trauma in a District General Hospital in the United Kingdom

Background The rate of chest trauma admissions under the Queen Hospital Burton Orthopedic team has been steadily increasing, surpassing other hospital trusts. Patients are managed locally by the Orthopedic department, unlike in major trauma centres. Understanding the management outcomes and patient factors in this setting is crucial for enhancing patient safety. Methodology A retrospective analysis of 139 patients with chest trauma referred to the QHB Orthopedic team from October 2017 to May 2021 was conducted using the Meditech-V6 electronic medical records system (Meditech, Westwood, US). This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of patients admitted with chest trauma and improve current practices. The objectives include assessing patient factors influencing outcomes, initiating discussions with a major trauma centre, and enhancing the quality of care for chest trauma patients. Results The mechanism of injury in all cases of chest injuries was blunt trauma, accounting for 100% of the cases. The specific mechanisms of injury observed in the study included falls from standing, falls from height, road traffic collisions, and assault. The study comprised 139 individuals, 128 of whom were diagnosed with rib fractures, and 11 who did not have any rib fractures. In addition, two patients were hospitalized with bilateral rib fractures, both of which were life-threatening. Tragically, one of these cases resulted in the death of the patient. With regard to outcomes, 67% of the patients received a consultation at Royal Stoke Hospital (RSH). Eight individuals were transferred to RSH for further management, while the remaining 131 patients were not transferred. Eighty-seven individuals were discharged from the hospital, indicating successful recovery and readiness for discharge. However, it is noteworthy that nine patients experienced complications during their hospital stay, highlighting the potential challenges and risks associated with chest trauma management. Tragically, seven patients succumbed to their injuries and passed away.  Conclusions The majority of patients in this study were aged 65 and over and presented with multiple comorbidities, indicating the complex medical profile of this population. However, despite the presence of life-threatening injuries and the associated risks, only a minority of patients in the study were transferred to a designated trauma centre. This raises concerns about the adequacy of the current transfer protocols and the potential impact on patient outcomes.

A Retrospective Two-Year Review of the Outcomes of Surgical Rib Fixation Following Chest Wall Injury by the Multidisciplinary Chest Wall Injury Group in a Major Trauma Centre and the Change in Outcomes as the Service Has Developed

Aims All English major trauma centres (MTCs) offer rib fixation, which the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) guidance indicates in patients with multiple rib fractures or a flail segment; however, the data does not identify the appropriate patients. Our aims were to establish improvements in outcomes following rib fixation at our trust and then determine if the rib fixation service has improved. Methods We performed a matched cohort study whereby 32 patients who underwent rib fixation were independently matched with conservatively managed patients. We then performed a retrospective re-audit to compare outcomes with the matched cohort study. The outcomes analysed were mortality, critical care length of stay (LOS) and total hospital LOS. Results Our initial study revealed a 33.4% reduction in mortality in patients over 55 years. There was also a reduction in average total hospital LOS by 4.5 days in patients under 55 years when comparing rib fixation to conservative management. The results also revealed an average of 4.1 days from admission to operation, 12.7 days of critical care LOS and 29.1 days of total hospital LOS. The re-audit showed improvements in all outcomes. Time from admission to fixation was reduced to 2.1 days, critical care LOS was reduced to 7.5 days and total hospital LOS was reduced to 20.7 days. Conclusions Reduced mortality and LOS reinforce evidence that rib fixation improves outcomes. The re-audit shows that patients are identified for fixation sooner, which is important as the evidence has not identified optimal time for fixation. LOS further decreased in our re-audit, which indicates that earlier fixation results in patients avoiding the sequelae of rib fractures.

A novel, evidence-based, comprehensive clinical decision support system improves outcomes for patients with traumatic rib fractures

BACKGROUND

Traumatic rib fractures are associated with high morbidity and mortality. Clinical decision support systems (CDSS) have been shown to improve adherence to evidence-based (EB) practice and improve clinical outcomes. The objective of this study was to investigate if a rib fracture CDSS reduced hospital length of stay (LOS), 90-day and 1-year mortality, unplanned ICU transfer, and the need for mechanical ventilation. The independent association of two process measures, an admission EB order set and a pain-inspiratory-cough score early warning system, with LOS were investigated.

METHODS

The CDSS was scaled across nine US trauma centers. Following multiple imputation, multivariable regression models were fit to evaluate the association of the CDSS on primary and secondary outcomes. As a sensitivity analysis, propensity score matching was also performed to confirm regression findings.

RESULTS

Overall, 3,279 patients met inclusion criteria. Rates of EB practices increased following implementation. On risk-adjusted analysis, in-hospital LOS preintervention versus postintervention was unchanged (incidence rate ratio [IRR], 1.06; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.97-1.15, p = 0.2) but unplanned transfer to the ICU was reduced (odds ratio, 0.28; 95% CI, 0.09-0.84, p = 0.024), as was 1-year mortality (hazard ratio, 0.6; 95% CI, 0.4-0.89, p = 0.01). Provider utilization of the admission order bundle was 45.3%. Utilization was associated with significantly reduced LOS (IRR, 0.87; 95% CI, 0.77-0.98; p = 0.019). The early warning system triggered on 34.4% of patients; however, was not associated with a significant reduction in hospital LOS (IRR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.55-1.06; p = 0.1).

CONCLUSION

A novel, user-centered, comprehensive CDSS improves adherence to EB practice and is associated with a significant reduction in unplanned ICU admissions and possibly mortality, but not hospital LOS.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Therapeutic/Care Management; Level III.

Rib Fracture Management in Older Adults: A Scoping Review

Background

Unique challenges posed by caring for patients of geriatric age, require concurrent management of chronic comorbidities and strategies to avoid or minimize complications related to the injury and/or hospitalization. The presentation in this population of two or more rib fractures is associated higher morbidity and mortality compared to a younger age group. A lack of guidelines regarding the management of multiple rib fractures in the elderly for primary care providers in the community and the complexity of rib fracture management led to reviewing available evidence regarding various approaches to rib fracture management.

Methods

Online databases (PubMed and MEDLINE) were used to identify 57 publications between 2000 and 2022 regarding the management of multiple rib fractures.

Results

The majority of publications were retrospective studies and observational cohort studies (56%). 32% of studies were review articles, meta-analyses, and guidelines. Three articles (5.3%) were randomized control studies. Four articles (7%) cited statistics from a national resource.

Conclusions

The management of rib fractures is predominantly non-surgical, managed with pain control and respiratory rehabilitation. Triaging protocols, available to healthcare providers in outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and emergency departments, to identify the most vulnerable patients with rib fractures in a timely fashion likely help expedite the level of care they need. A comprehensive treatment team includes not only the primary trauma team (consisting of emergency physicians/trauma surgeons, trauma nurses, and mid-level practitioners) but also incorporates a multidisciplinary team with the early involvement of a geriatrician, physical therapist, anesthesiologist, social worker, and respiratory therapist when required to improve ventilation, breathing and patient comfort.

Outcomes of surgical stabilization of rib fractures in a minority population: Retrospective analysis of a case series from an acute care facility

Objective

The aim of was to examine the postoperative outcomes and associated factors of surgical stabilization of rib fracture (SSRF) in a minority population.

Methods

A retrospective analysis with case series of 10 patients undergoing SSRF at an acute care facility in New York City was performed. Data, including patient demographic characteristics, comorbidities, hospital length of stay were collected. Results were presented in comparative tables and a Kaplan-Meier curve. Primary outcome was to compare outcomes of SSRF in minority patients to larger studies in nonminority populations. Secondary outcomes included various postoperative outcomes, including atelectasis, pain, and infection, and the influence of medical comorbidities on each.

Results

The median time (with accompanying interquartile range) from diagnosis to SSRF, SSRF to discharge, and overall length of stay was 4.5 days (4.25), 6.0 days (17.00) and 10.5 days (18.25) days, respectively. The time until SSRF and postoperative complication rate were found to be comparable to those in larger studies. The Kaplan-Meier curve demonstrates a correlation between persistence of atelectasis to increased length of stay (P = .05). Increased time to SSRF was seen in elderly patients and patients with diabetes (P = .012 and P = .019, respecively). Increased pain requirements by patients with diabetes (P = .007), and higher infectious complications in patients with flail chest and diabetes (P = .035 and P = .002, respectively) were also seen.

Conclusions

Preliminary outcomes and complication rates of SSRF in a minority population are shown to be comparable to larger studies in nonminority populations. Larger, higher-powered studies are required to further compare outcomes between these 2 populations.

The Implementation of a Rib Fracture Pathway at a Small District General Hospital to Improve Patient Care

Background and objective Rib fractures are common presentations to the emergency department following blunt thoracic trauma. Despite this injury causing significant morbidity and mortality, no national guidelines exist to guide the acute management of this condition. In light of this, this quality improvement project was conducted at a district general hospital (DGH) with the aim of assessing the impact of using a simple rib fracture management pathway. Methods A retrospective review of paper notes and electronic databases of patients with a recorded diagnosis of "rib fractures" were reviewed. Following this, a management pathway was designed and then implemented, which incorporated BMJ Best Practices and local hospital needs. The study then assessed the impact of the pathway. Results Prior to implementing the pathway, a total of 47 individual patients were included in the statistical analysis. Of the patients analysed, 44% were older than 65 years. Of note, 89% received regular paracetamol for analgesia, 41% received regular nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), and 69% received regular opioids. Advanced analgesics such as patient-controlled analgesia (PCA) and nerve blocks were poorly used; for instance, a PCA was used in only 13% of cases. Only 6% of patients received daily pain team reviews and only 44% of patients were seen by physiotherapists within the first 24 hours. Additionally, 93% of patients who were admitted under general surgery had a STUMBL (STUdy of the Management of BLunt chest wall trauma) prognostic score >10. Post-pathway implementation, a total of 22 individual patients were included in the statistical analysis. Of them, 52% were older than 65 years. The use of simple analgesia was unchanged. However advanced analgesia was better escalated, and PCAs were used 43% of the time. The involvement of other healthcare professionals improved; 59% were reviewed by the pain team in the first 24 hours, 45% received daily pain team reviews, and 54% received advanced analgesia. Conclusion Based on our findings, implementing a simple rib fracture pathway is effective at improving the management of rib fracture patients admitted to our DGH.

Management Pathways for Traumatic Rib Fractures-Importance of Surgical Stabilisation

Rib fractures occur in almost half of blunt chest wall trauma victims in Australia. They are associated with a high rate of pulmonary complications, and consequently, with increased discomfort, disability, morbidity, and mortality. This article summarises thoracic cage anatomy and physiology, and chest wall trauma pathophysiology. Institutional clinical strategies and clinical pathway "bundles of care" are usually available to reduce mortality and morbidity in patients with chest wall injury. This article analyses multimodal clinical pathways and intervention strategies that include surgical stabilisation of rib fractures (SSRF) in thoracic cage trauma patients with severe rib fractures, including flail chest and simple multiple rib fractures. The management of thoracic cage injury should include a multidisciplinary team approach with proper consideration of all potential avenues and treatment modalities (including SSRF) to obtain the best patient outcomes. There is good evidence for the positive prognostic role of SSRF as part of a "bundle of care" in the setting of severe rib fractures such as ventilator-dependent patients and patients with flail chest. However, the use of SSRF in flail chest treatment is uncommon worldwide, although early SSRF is standard practice at our hospital for patients presenting with multiple rib fractures, flail chest, and/or severe sternal fractures. Several studies report that SSRF in patients with multiple simple rib fractures lead to positive patient outcomes, but these studies are mostly retrospective studies or small case-control trials. Therefore, prospective studies and well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the benefits of SSRF in patients with multiple simple rib fractures, as well as in elderly chest trauma patients where there is scant evidence for the clinical outcomes of SSRF intervention. When initial interventions for severe chest trauma are unsatisfactory, SSRF must be considered taking into account the patient's individual circumstances, clinical background, and prognostic projections.

Comparison of surgical stabilization of rib fractures vs epidural analgesia on in-hospital outcomes

INTRODUCTION

Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) improves functional outcomes compared to controls, partly due to reduction in pain. We investigated the impact of early SSRF on pulmonary complications, mortality, and length of stay compared to non-operative analgesia with epidural analgesia (EA).

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of the Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) 2017 dataset for adults with rib fractures, excluding those with traumatic brain injury or death within twenty-four hours. Early SSRF and EA occurred within 72 h, and we excluded those who received both or neither intervention. Our primary outcome was a composite of pulmonary complications including acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) or ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP). Additional outcomes included unplanned endotracheal intubation, in-hospital mortality, and hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay (LOS) for those surviving to discharge. Multiple logistic and linear regressions were controlled for variables including age, sex, flail chest (FC), injury severity, additional procedures, and medical comorbidities.

RESULTS

We included 1,024 and 1,109 patients undergoing early SSRF and EA, respectively. SSRF patients were more severely injured with higher rates of FC (42.8 vs 13.3%, p<0.001), Injury Severity Score (ISS) > 16 (56.9 vs 36.1%, p<0.001), and Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) Thorax > 3 (33.3 vs 12.2%, p<0.001). Overall, 49 (2.3%) of patients developed ARDS or VAP, 111 (5.2%) required unplanned intubation, and 58 (2.7%) expired prior to discharge. On multivariable analysis, SSRF was not associated with the primary composite outcome (OR: 1.65, 95%CI: 0.85-3.21). Early SSRF significantly predicted decreased risk of unplanned intubation (OR:0.59, 95%CI: 0.38-0.92) compared with early EA alone, however, was not a significant predictor of in-hospital mortality (OR: 1.27, 95%CI: 0.68-2.39). SSRF was associated with significantly longer hospital (Exp(β): 1.06, 95%CI: 1.00-1.12, p = 0.047) and ICU LOS (Exp(β): 1.17, 95%CI: 1.08-1.27, p<0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Aside from unplanned intubation, we observed no statistically significant difference in the adjusted odds of in-hospital pulmonary morbidity or mortality for patients undergoing early SSRF compared with early EA. Chest wall injury patients may benefit from referral to trauma centers where both interventions are available and appropriate surgical candidates may receive timely intervention.

Rib fracture-related morbidity and mortality for older persons in the era of fascial plane blocks: A cohort study

Introduction

Analgesia is key to successful conservative, nonsurgical management of patients admitted to the hospital with multiple rib fractures. Recently, new fascial plane regional anesthesia techniques have become widely available. We hypothesized that since the introduction of these new regional analgesia techniques, for patients over the age of 65 years, the effect of increasing numbers of rib fractures has been mitigated.

Methods

A retrospective study of patients admitted for the management of rib fractures between 2017 and 2020 was performed. Patients not admitted to the hospital, under the age of 65 years, or with chest trauma other than rib fractures were not eligible for inclusion. The primary outcome of interest was mortality. The secondary outcomes were the incidence of pneumonia and intensive care unit admission. Results were reported as the odds ratio and its 95% confidence interval and associated p-value. Statistical significance was set at [Formula: see text] < 0.05.

Results

Overall, 252 patients were included and 142 patients received a regional anesthesia. The mortality rate was 4% (n = 10) with no association between mortality and number of rib fractures ( p = 0.215). Twenty-four patients (9.5%) developed pneumonia during their hospital stay, again with no association with an increasing number of rib fractures. The intensive care unit admission rate was 13.1% (n = 33) and correlated with an increasing number of fractures (odds ratio = 1.15; 95% confidence interval = 1.01 to 1.31; p = 0.038).

Conclusion

Management including liberal utilization of regional anesthesia for at-risk patients appears to mitigate the effect of increasing numbers of rib fractures on the incidence of mortality and pneumonia.

Finite element analysis for better evaluation of rib fractures: A pilot study

INTRODUCTION

Modeling rib fracture stability is challenging. Computer-generated finite element analysis (FEA) is an option for assessment of chest wall stability (CWS). The objective is to explore FEA as a means to assess CWS, hypothesizing it is a reliable approach to better understand rib fracture pathophysiology.

METHODS

Thoracic anatomy was generated from standardized skeletal models with internal/external organs, soft tissue and muscles using Digital Imaging and Communications in Medicine data. Material properties were assigned to bone, cartilage, skin and viscera. Simulation was performed using ANSYS Workbench (2020 R2, Canonsburg, PA). Meshing the model was completed identifying 1.3 and 2.1 million elements and nodes. An implicit solver was used for a linear/static FEA with all bony contacts identified and applied. All material behavior was modeled as isotropic/linear elastic. Six load cases were evaluated from a musculoskeletal AnyBody model; forward flexion, right/left lateral bending, right/left axial rotation and 5-kg weight arm lifting. Standard application points, directions of muscle forces, and joint positions were applied. Ten fracture cases (unilateral and bilateral) were defined and 66 model variations were simulated. Forty-three points were applied to each rib in the mid/anterior axillary lines to assess thoracic stability. Three assessment criteria were used to quantify thoracic motion: normalized mean absolute error, normalized root mean square error, and normalized interfragmentary motion.

RESULTS

All three analyses demonstrated similar findings that rib fracture deformation and loss of CWS was highest for left/right axial rotation. Increased number of ribs fracture demonstrated more fracture deformation and more loss of CWS compared with a flail chest segment involving less ribs. A single rib fracture is associated with ~3% loss of CWS. Normalized interfragmentary motion deformation can increases by 230%. Chest wall stability can decrease by over 50% depending on fracture patterns.

CONCLUSION

Finite element analysis is a promising technology for analyzing CWS. Future studies need to focus on clinical relevance and application of this technology.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Diagnostic Tests or Criteria; Level IV.

Diaphragmatic Excursion as a Novel Objective Measure of Serratus Anterior Plane Block Efficacy: A Case Series

INTRODUCTION

Pain scales are often used in peripheral nerve block studies but are problematic due to their subjective nature. Ultrasound-measured diaphragmatic excursion is an easily learned technique that could provide a much-needed objective measure of pain control over time with serial measurements.

CASE SERIES

We describe three cases where diaphragmatic excursion was used as an objective measure of decreased pain and improved respiratory function after serratus anterior plane block in emergency department patients with anterior or lateral rib fractures.

CONCLUSION

Diaphragmatic excursion may be an ideal alternative to pain scores to evaluate serratus anterior plane block efficacy. More data will be needed to determine whether this technique can be applied to other ultrasound-guided nerve blocks.

Outpatient Surgery for Rib Fracture Fixation: A Report of Three Cases

Rib fractures are common injuries observed in trauma patients that will often heal without operative intervention. However, patients can infrequently have continued pain. Operative fixation of these symptomatic rib fractures has traditionally led to the patient requiring hospital admission for observation and pain control. The purpose of this study was to review three cases of outpatient rib fracture, open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) surgery. Three patients with symptomatic rib fractures treated with ORIF at a single urban level one trauma center underwent outpatient same-day surgery. Pertinent demographic, clinical, radiographic, and surgical data were collected. All patients had decreased preoperative pain and no complications. This case series demonstrates that outpatient surgery for rib fracture ORIF can be performed safely in a select patient population. Additionally, it has similar efficacy as inpatient operative fixation with the main added benefit being decreased costs to both the patient and the healthcare system. We suggest that outpatient operative fixation of rib fractures should be considered for select patients.

The Surgical Timing and Complications of Rib Fixation for Rib Fractures in Geriatric Patients

Rib fractures (RF) are a common injury that cause significant morbidity and mortality, especially in geriatric patients. RF fixation could shorten hospital stay and improve survival. The aim of this retrospective study was to evaluate the clinical impact and proper surgical timing of RF fixation in geriatric patients. We reviewed all the medical data of patients older than 16 years old with RF from the trauma registry database between January 2017 and December 2019 in Chang Gung Memorial Hospital. A total of 1078 patients with RF were enrolled, and 87 patients received RF fixation. The geriatric patients had a higher chest abbreviated injury scale than the non-geriatric group (p = 0.037). Univariate analysis showed that the RF fixation complication rates were significantly related to the injury severity scores (Odds ratio 1.10, 95% CI 1.03–1.20, p = 0.009) but not associated with age (OR 0.99, 95% CI 0.25–3.33, p = 0.988) or the surgical timing (OR 2.94, 95% CI 0.77–12.68, p = 0.122). Multivariate analysis proved that only bilateral RF was an independent risk factor of complications (OR 6.60, 95% CI 1.38–35.54, p = 0.02). RF fixation can be postponed for geriatric patients after they are stabilized and other lethal traumatic injuries are managed as a priority.

Rib fracture management: A review of surgical stabilization, regional analgesia, and intercostal nerve cryoablation

Rib fractures still remain a common problem in blunt thoracic trauma, often resulting significant acute and/or chronic morbidity and mortality. The management of rib fractures has improved over the past two decades, resulting in overall improved patient outcomes. With advances in surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF), improvements in regional analgesia, and the introduction of intercostal nerve cryoablation, patient outcomes from rib fractures have improved significantly over the past several years. This article explores the indications and technique for SSRF as well as discusses additional therapeutic modalities for rib fractures through regional anesthesia and intercostal nerve cryoablation.

Long term outcomes following rib fracture fixation in patients with major chest trauma

BACKGROUND

Severe chest injuries are associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Surgical rib fixation has become a more commonplace procedure to improve chest wall mechanics, pain, and function. The aim of this study was to characterise the epidemiology and long-term functional outcomes of chest trauma patients who underwent rib fixation in a major trauma centre (MTC).

METHODOLOGY

This was a retrospective review (2014-19) of all adult patients with significant chest injury who had rib fixation surgery following blunt trauma to the chest. The primary outcome was functional recovery after hospital discharge, and secondary outcomes included length of intensive care unit (ICU) and hospital stay, maximum organ support, tracheostomy insertion, ventilator days.

RESULTS

60 patients underwent rib fixation. Patients were mainly male (82%) with median age 52 (range 24-83) years, injury severity score (ISS) of 29 (21-38), 10 (4-19) broken ribs, and flail segment in 90% of patients. Forty-six patients (77%) had a good outcome (GOSE grade 6-8). Patients in the poor outcome group (23%; GOSE 1-5) tended to be older [55 (39-83) years vs. 51 (24-78); p = 0.05] and had longer length of hospital stay [42 (19-82) days vs. 24 (7-90); p<0.01]. Injury severity, rate of mechanical ventilation or organ dysfunction did not affect long term outcome. Nineteen patients (32%) were not mechanically ventilated.

CONCLUSIONS

Rib fixation was associated with good long-term outcomes in severely injured patients. Age was the only predictor of long-term outcome. The results suggest that rib fixation be considered in patients with severe chest injuries and may also benefit those who are not mechanically ventilated but are at risk of deterioration.

Thoracoscopic-assisted rib plating (TARP): initial single-center case series, including TARP in the super elderly, technical lessons learned, and proposed expanded indications

Objectives

The application of surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) remains inconsistent due to evolving indications and perceived associated morbidity. By implementing thoracoscopic-assisted rib plating (TARP), a minimally invasive SSRF approach, we expanded our SSRF application to patients who otherwise might not be offered fixation. This report presents our initial experience, including fixation in super elderly (aged ≥85 years), and technical lessons learned.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study at a level 1 trauma center of admitted patients who underwent TARP between August 2019 and October 2020. Patient demographics, injury characteristics, surgical indications and outcomes are represented as mean±SD, median or percentage.

Results

A total of 2134 patients with rib fractures were admitted. In this group, 39 SSRF procedures were performed, of which 54% (n=21) were TARP. Average age was 68.5±16 years. Patients had a median of 5 fractured ribs, with an average of 1 rib that was bicortically displaced, and 19% presented with ‘clicking’ on inspiration. Patient outcomes were a mean hospital length of stay (LOS) of 11±3.7 days, mean postoperative LOS of 8 days, and mean intensive care unit LOS of 6.6±2.9 days. Five patients were ≥85 years old with a mean age of 90.8±4.7 years. They presented with an average of 4 rib fractures, of which an average of 2.4 ribs were plated. The procedure was well tolerated in this age group with a hospital LOS of 9.4±2 days, and all five patients were discharged to a rehab facility with no in-hospital mortalities.

Conclusion

Our experience incorporating TARP at our institution demonstrated feasibility of the technique and application across a broad range of patients. This approach and its application warrants further evaluation and potentially expands the application of SSRF.

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Safety profile and outcome after ultrasound-guided suprainguinal fascia iliaca catheters for hip fracture: a single-centre propensity-matched historical cohort study

PURPOSE

Peripheral nerve blocks improve analgesia following hip fracture; however, there are little published data on safety and outcomes of continuous regional anesthetic techniques. Our institution offers pre- and perioperative, anesthesiologist-delivered ultrasound-guided suprainguinal fascia iliaca catheters (FICs) to patients with hip fracture. We aimed to document the safety profile of this technique and establish whether there are any significant clinical benefits in outcomes measured by the UK National Hip Fracture Database.

METHODS

We performed a single-centre historical cohort study of 2,187 patients admitted to our institution with hip fracture over a 5.75-year period. Of these, 915 were treated with FIC and 1,272 received standard care (single-shot block). To control for baseline differences between these two cohorts, we used propensity score matching and exact matching, resulting in two well-matched groups of 728 patients treated with an FIC and standard care.

RESULTS

No serious complications were observed as a result of an FIC. Unplanned removal occurred in 146/852 (17.1%) patients with documented data. No differences in 30-day mortality, pressure ulcer rates, or hospital length of stay were observed between the matched groups. The percentage of patients who were discharged to their usual residence was 79.3% in the FIC cohort vs 75.1% in the standard care cohort (difference, 4.2%; 95% confidence interval, -0.1 to 8.4; P = 0.06).

DISCUSSION

Our single-centre propensity-matched historical cohort study suggests that ultrasound-guided suprainguinal fascia iliaca catheterization is a safe technique for patients with hip fracture and that our service is deliverable and sustainable within the UK's National Health Service. This study did not show statistically significant differences in outcomes between patients treated with FIC and standard care. An adequately powered multicentre randomized controlled trial comparing these approaches is warranted.

Acute pain consult and management is associated with improved mortality in rib fracture patients

INTRODUCTION

Traumatic rib fractures result in significant patient morbidity and mortality, which increases with patient age and number of rib fractures. A dedicated acute pain service (APS) providing expertize in multimodal pain management may reduce these risks and improve outcomes. We aimed to test the hypothesis that protocolized APS consultation decreases mortality and morbidity in traumatic rib fracture patients.

METHODS

This is a retrospective observational, propensity-matched cohort study of adult patients with trauma with rib fractures from 2012 to 2015, at a single, large level 1 trauma center corresponding to introduction and incorporation of APS consultation into the institutional rib fracture pathway. Using electronic medical records and trauma registry data, we identified adult patients presenting with traumatic rib fractures. Patients with hospital length of stay (LOS) ≥2 days were split into two cohorts based on presence of APS consult using 1:1 propensity matching of age, gender, comorbidities and injury severity. The primary outcome was difference in hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included LOS and pulmonary morbidity.

RESULTS

2486 patients were identified, with a final matched cohort of 621 patients receiving APS consult and 621 control patients. The mortality rate was 1.8% among consult patients and 6.6% among control patients (adjusted OR 0.25, 95% CI 0.13 to 0.50; p=0.001). The average treatment effect of consult on mortality was 4.8% (95% CI 1.2% to 8.5%;. p<0.001). APS consultation was associated with increased intensive care unit (ICU) LOS (1.19 day; 95% CI 0.48 to 1.90; p=0.001) and hospital LOS (1.61 days; 95% CI 0.81 to 2.41 days; p<0.001). No difference in pulmonary complications was observed.

DISCUSSION

An APS consult in rib fracture patients is associated with decreased mortality and no difference in pulmonary complications yet increased ICU and hospital LOS.

Operative fixation of rib fracture nonunions

INTRODUCTION

Rib fractures are common injuries in trauma patients that often heal without intervention. Infrequently, symptomatic rib fracture nonunions are a complication after rib fractures. There is a paucity of literature on the surgical treatment of rib fracture nonunion. The purpose of this study was to describe the efficacy of rib fracture nonunion operative fixation with particular focus on surgical technique, healing rates, and complications.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Patients aged ≥ 18 years with symptomatic rib fracture nonunions treated with open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with locking plates at a single urban level 1 trauma center were retrospectively reviewed. Pertinent demographic, clinical, radiographic, and surgical data were collected and analyzed.

RESULTS

A total of 18 patients met inclusion criteria. The mean time from injury to undergoing ORIF for rib fracture nonunion was just under a year and the number of ribs plated was 2.95 ± 1.16 (1-5 ribs) with bone grafting used in six cases. All patients (100%) showed evidence of healing at an average of 2.65 ± 1.50 months (2-8 months). All patients reported a decrease in pain. No narcotic pain medication was used at an average of 3.88 ± 3.76 weeks (0-10 weeks) post-operatively. Intraoperative and postoperative complications were found in 4 (22.2%) patients.

CONCLUSION

This study concluded that operative fixation of symptomatic rib fracture nonunion demonstrated favorable outcomes with reduction in preoperative pain levels, decreased use of narcotic pain medication, minimal complications, and a high rate of fracture union. This described method provides symptomatic relief, reduction in pain, and promotes bony healing of the fracture nonunion without development of major complications. We suggest that operative fixation should be considered as the primary method of treatment of symptomatic rib nonunions.

COVID-19 and the injured patient: A multicenter review

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been shown to affect outcomes among surgical patients. We hypothesized that COVID-19 would be linked to higher mortality and longer length of stay of trauma patients regardless of the injury severity score (ISS).

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of trauma registries from two level 1 trauma centers (suburban and urban) from March 1, 2019, to June 30, 2019, and March 1, 2020, to June 30, 2020, comparing baseline characteristics and cumulative adverse events. Data collected included ISS, demographics, and comorbidities. The primary outcome was time from hospitalization to in-hospital death. Outcomes during the height of the first New York COVID-19 wave were also compared with the same time frame in the prior year. Kaplan–Meier method with log-rank test and Cox proportional hazard models were used to compare outcomes.

Results

There were 1180 trauma patients admitted during the study period from March 2020 to June 2020. Of these, 596 were never tested for COVID-19 and were excluded from the analysis. A total of 148 COVID+ patients and 436 COVID− patients composed the 2020 cohort for analysis. Compared with the 2019 cohort, the 2020 cohort was older with more associated comorbidities, more adverse events, but lower ISS. Higher rates of historical hypertension, diabetes, neurologic events, and coagulopathy were found among COVID+ patients compared with COVID− patients. D-dimer and ferritin were unreliable indicators of COVID-19 severity; however, C-reactive protein levels were higher in COVID+ relative to COVID− patients. Patients who were COVID+ had a lower median ISS compared with COVID− patients, and COVID+ patients had higher rates of mortality and longer length of stay.

Conclusions

COVID+ trauma patients admitted to our two level 1 trauma centers had increased morbidity and mortality compared with admitted COVID− trauma patients despite age and lower ISS. C-reactive protein may play a role in monitoring COVID-19 activity in trauma patients. A better understanding of the physiological impact of COVID-19 on injured patients warrants further investigation.

Comparison of Infectious Complications after Surgical Fixation versus Epidural Analgesia for Acute Rib Fractures

Background: Surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) is associated with decreased mortality and respiratory complications. Patients who are not offered SSRF are often treated with epidural analgesia (EA) to reduce pain and improve pulmonary mechanics. We sought to compare infectious complications in patients undergoing either SSRF or EA. We hypothesized that infectious complications are equivalent between the two treatment groups. Patients and Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study of adult trauma patients with acute rib fractures within the Trauma Quality Improvement Program (TQIP) 2017 dataset and used International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision, Clinical Modification (ICD-10-CM) codes to identify patients who underwent SSRF or EA. We excluded patients who received both treatments in the same admission. Our primary outcome was the development of sepsis. Secondary outcomes were specific infections including ventilator-associated pneumonia (VAP), catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), and central line-associated blood stream infections (CLABSI). Multiple logistic regression analyses were used to adjust for age, injury severity score (ISS), chest Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS), flail chest, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and comorbidities. Results: We identified 2,252 and 1,299 patients who underwent SSRF and EA, respectively. Patients with SSRF were younger with higher ISS and longer length of stay (LOS). There was no difference in mortality, however, SSRF had higher rate of sepsis (1.6% vs. 0.5%; p = 0.001), VAP (5.1% vs. 0.9%; p < 0.001), CAUTI (1.7% vs. 0.5%; p = 0.001), and CLABSI (0.2% vs. 0%; p = 0.05). On multiple regression, SSRF was associated with higher odds of sepsis (odds ratio [OR], 2.63; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.04-6.63), CAUTI (OR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.11-7.88), and VAP (OR, 3.24; 95% CI, 1.73-6.06). Among those who developed sepsis, there was no significant difference in mortality or LOS between groups. Conclusions: Despite no difference in mortality, SSRF was associated with increased risk of septic complications in patients with rib fractures compared to epidural analgesia. Identifying, and addressing, risk factors of sepsis in this patient population is a critical performance improvement process to optimize outcomes without increased adverse events.