The right team at the right time - Multidisciplinary approach to multi-trauma patient with orthopedic injuries

Endovascular Removal of Pulmonary Artery Bullet Embolus: Case Report and Literature Review

The current state of the literature for a bullet embolization to the heart and/or pulmonary vasculature indicates the occurrence is rare but could increase due to the rise in civilian low-kinetic-energy firearm acquisition and use. We present the case of an older teenage male who sustained a gunshot wound to the left flank. The bullet entered the iliac vein, travelled through the heart and lodged in the pulmonary artery. Successful relocation of the bullet to the internal iliac vein was performed by the interventional radiologist. This article highlights the advancement of interventional radiology as a successful non-invasive endovascular technique for bullet embolus removal.

Exploring the competencies of Chinese critical care nurses in mobile medical teams based on the onion model: A qualitative study

BACKGROUND

With frequent conflicts, natural disasters, and public health emergencies globally, mobile medical teams (MMTs) are becoming increasingly critical. Importantly, the competency of critical care nurses in MMTs can substantially affect the effectiveness and quality of its rescue efforts. Yet, these nurses' competencies are not well understood.

AIM

This study examined the competencies of critical care nurses in MMTs using the Onion Model.

STUDY DESIGN

A qualitative descriptive method was used to describe the competencies of Chinese MMT critical care nurses. From April to May 2022, a convenience sample of 18 participants (14 critical care nurses and 4 surgeons) from 10 MMTs was recruited for semi-structured interviews. Deductive and inductive coding methods were combined for content analysis.

RESULTS

In total, 29 competencies were identified, which were grouped into four major domains using the Onion Model. From the outer to inner layers, these domains were knowledge and skills, professional abilities, professional quality, and personal traits. Several novel competencies emerged, including field medical equipment operation skills, on-site hazard identification and safety prevention skills, triage knowledge, and field survival skills.

CONCLUSIONS

Using the Onion Model, this study furthers the understanding of the competency of critical care nurses in MMTs, especially by revealing the novel competencies. Further, the results can be used to recruit, evaluate, and train critical care nurses for MMTs.

RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE

Understanding MMT critical care nurses' competencies can help managers plan and provide relevant training and education before deployment, which can improve nurses' performance, and especially reduce the mortalities and disabilities from trauma.

Craniovertebral Junction Deformity Diagnosed by Computed Tomography: A Case Report

Craniovertebral junction (CVJ) deformities, including basilar invagination and atlanto-occipital assimilation, present significant challenges in diagnosis and management due to their complex nature and impact on neurological function. We report a case of a 28-year-old female who experienced neck pain, weakness, tingling in the upper limbs, restricted neck movements, occipital headaches, and intermittent dizziness. These symptoms progressively worsened over six months, markedly affecting her quality of life. Neurological examination revealed reduced motor power in the upper limbs and a diminished bicipital tendon reflex, while other assessments remained normal. Cervical spine CT imaging was done which revealed basilar invagination and atlanto-occipital assimilation. This case underscores the importance of recognizing and managing CVJ deformities, highlighting the need for a multidisciplinary approach to address anatomical and associated neurological symptoms. Early and accurate diagnosis and a tailored treatment strategy are crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Quality of life of survivors following road traffic orthopaedic injuries in Rwanda

Background

Road traffic injuries (RTI) pose a global public health threat, especially in low- and middle-income nations. These injuries typically cause orthopaedic problems that may negatively impair a person's physical and mental health and quality of life. Our study examined the quality of life of road traffic orthopaedic injuries (RTOI) survivors.

Methods

A cross-sectional study at five Rwandan referral hospitals, included 369 adult RTOI victims. Two years post-injury, participants completed the European Quality of life 5 Dimension 5 (EQ-5D-5L) and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) Questionnaire between June 2 and August 31, 2022, with informed consent. Three EQ-5D-5L-VAS scores were used: low (0-40%), fair (41-60%), and excellent (61-100%). We used logistic regression analysis with a significance threshold of p < 0.05 to determine odds ratios (OR) and 95% CI.

Results

The RTOI victims had a mean age of 37.5 ± 11.26 years with sex ratio M:F:3:1. Usual activities (66.8%) and mobility (54.8%) were the most affected EQ-5D-5L dimensions. Residence, hospital stay, rehabilitation, and return to work affected mobility, usual activities, pain/discomfort, and anxiety/depression. The EQ-5D-5L/VAS score showed 34.95% poor QoL (0-40%) and 35.50% good QoL. Factors affecting QoL include level of education (OR = 1.66, p < <0.01), type of intervention (OR = 1.22, p = 0.003), rehabilitation (OR = 2.41, p < 0.01) and level of disability (OR = 196.41, p < 0.01). Mobility, self-care, usual activities, pain, comfort, anxiety, and depression vary moderately on Shannon's index.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant impact of road traffic orthopaedic injuries (RTOI) on survivors' quality of life in Rwanda, revealing challenges in mobility and daily activities. Factors influencing quality of life include education level, medical intervention type, rehabilitation, and disability degree. The findings emphasize the need for tailored rehabilitation strategies and policy interventions to improve long-term outcomes for RTOI survivors.

Multiple Spinal Epidural Abscesses with Concomitant Multifocal Systemic Abscesses and Multi-joint Septic Arthritis:, A Case Report

Introduction

Multiple spinal epidual abscesses with multifocal systemic abscess and multiple joint septic arthritis present with a large infective burden resulting in sepsis, systemic inflammatory dysregulation, and multi-organ failure. This requires pre-operative resuscitation and surgery of greater complexity, longer operative duration, and blood loss, creating challenges to surgical management.

Case Report

A 69-year-old Chinese female presented with multilevel discrete spinal epidural abscesses along the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, alongside concomitant multifocal systemic abscesses and multiple small joint septic arthritis. She received pre-operative resuscitation to restore organ function, reverse acidosis, and coagulopathy, prior tobefore surgical decompression of selected abscesses and joints under a multidisciplinary team. Remaining sites of infection without significant compression were undrained. The patient recovered well with no residual neurological deficits.

Conclusion

Multifocal infections in critically ill patients require a multidisciplinary team for preoperative resuscitation, joint surgical planning, and prioritiszing surgical interventions to prevent excessive surgical stress to the patient.

Association between preoperative lactate level and early complications after surgery for isolated extremity fracture

BACKGROUND

The role of lactate level in selecting the timing of definitive surgery for isolated extremity fracture remains unclear. Therefore, we aimed to elucidate the use of preoperative lactate level for predicting early postoperative complications.

METHODS

This was a single-center retrospective observational study of patients with isolated extremity fracture who underwent orthopedic surgery. Patients who underwent lactate level assessment within 24 h prior to surgery were included. The incidence of early postoperative complications was compared between patients with a preoperative lactate level of ≥ 2 and < 2 mmol/L. Moreover, subgroup analyses were performed based on the time from hospital arrival to surgery and fracture type.

RESULTS

In total, 187 patients were included in the study. The incidence of postoperative complications was significantly higher in patients with a preoperative lactate level of ≥ 2 mmol/L than those with a preoperative lactate level of < 2 mmol/L. This result did not change after adjusting for age and severity. Further, a high preoperative lactate level was associated with a greater incidence of postoperative complications in patients who underwent definitive surgery within 6 h after arrival.

CONCLUSION

A preoperative lactate level of ≥ 2 mmol/L was associated with a greater incidence of early postoperative complications in isolated extremity fractures. Nevertheless, this correlation was only observed among patients who underwent definitive fixation within 6 h after hospital arrival.

A Systematic Review of Live Animal Use as a Simulation Modality ("Live Tissue Training") in the Emergency Management of Trauma

INTRODUCTION

Live anaesthetized animals are used as simulation models to teach techniques in the emergency management of trauma. We aimed to explore how "live tissue training" (LTT) is designed, delivered and evaluated in order to better understand and characterize aspects of educational merit.

METHODS

A systematic review was performed using PRISMA guidance. A combined approach, involving a 3-stage modified narrative synthesis process and reflexive thematic analysis was used to identify key concepts across the published literature.

FINDINGS

Qualitative synthesis of 48 selected articles suggests that LTT is mainly used to teach military and civilian physicians and military medical technicians. The procedures trained vary with the learner population, from simple pre-hospital trauma tasks to advanced operative surgical skills. Many courses use a combination of didactic and practical training, with an animal model used to train practical application of knowledge and procedural skills. Descriptions of the learning interventions are limited, and explicit use of educational theory or pedagogic frameworks were absent within the literature. Four themes were identified regarding aspects of LTT that are valued by learners: "recreating the experience," relating to fidelity and realism; "tick tock" "dynamics of hemorrhage", encompassing the impact of bleeding and urgent pressure to act; "emotional impact" of conducting the training, and "self-efficacy: I believe I can do it."

CONCLUSION

Thematic analysis of published literature suggests that there may be educational benefit in the use of live tissue models due to time criticality and bleeding, which creates a real-life event. LTT also invokes an emotional response, and learners experience an increase in self-efficacy from participation. We consider that these aspects and associated pedagogy should be addressed when researching and developing alternative simulation modalities, in order to intelligently replace, reduce and refine the use of animals in training practitioners in the emergency management of trauma.

The History and Evolution of the West African College of Surgeons/Jos University Teaching Hospital Trauma Management Course

BACKGROUND

Inadequate trauma care training opportunities exist in Low- and Middle-Income Countries. Jos University Teaching Hospital and the West African College of Surgeons (WACS) have synergized, over the past 15 years, to introduce a yearly, certified, multidisciplinary Trauma Management Course. We explore the history and evolution of this course.

METHODS

A desk review of course secretariat documents, registration records, schedules, pre- and post-course test records, post-course surveys, and account books complemented by organizer interviews was carried out to elaborate the evolution of the Trauma Management Course.

RESULTS

The course was started as a local Continuing Medical Education program in 2005 in response to recurring cycles of violence and numerous mass casualty situations. Collaborations with WACS followed, with inclusion of the course in the College's yearly calendar from 2010. Multidisciplinary faculty teach participants the concepts of trauma care through didactic lectures, group sessions, and hands-on simulation within a one-week period. From inception, there has been a 100% growth in lecture content (from 15 to 30 lectures) and in multidisciplinary attendance (from 23 to 133 attendees). Trainees showed statistically significant knowledge gain yearly, with a mean difference ranging from 10.1 to 16.1% over the past 5 years. Future collaborations seek to expand the course and position it as a catalyst for regional emergency medical services and trauma registries.

CONCLUSIONS

Multidisciplinary trauma management training is important for expanding holistic trauma capacity within the West African sub-region. The course serves as an example for Low- and Middle-Income contexts. Similar contextualized programs should be considered to strengthen trauma workforce development.

Contemporary management and time to revascularization in upper extremity arterial injury

INTRODUCTION

Upper extremity arterial injury is associated with significant morbidity and mortality for trauma patients, but there is a paucity of data to guide the clinician in the management of these injuries. The goals of this review were to characterize the demographics, presentation, clinical management, and outcomes, and to evaluate how time to intervention associates with outcomes in trauma patients with upper extremity vascular injuries.

METHODS

The National Trauma Data Bank (NTDB) Research Data Set for the years 2007-2016 was queried in order to identify adult patients (age ≥ 18) with an upper extremity arterial injury. Patients with brachiocephalic, subclavian, axillary, or brachial artery injury using the 1998 and 2005 versions of the Abbreviated Injury Scale were included. Patients with non-survivable injuries to the brain, traumatic amputation, or other major arterial injuries to the torso or lower extremities were excluded.

RESULTS

The data from 7908 patients with upper extremity arterial injuries was reviewed. Of those, 5407 (68.4%) underwent repair of the injured artery. The median Injury Severity Score (ISS) was 10 (IQR = 7-18), and 7.7% of patients had a severe ISS (≥ 25). Median time to repair was 120 min (IQR = 60-240 min). Management was open repair in 52.3%, endovascular repair in 7.3%, and combined open and endovascular repairs in 8.8%; amputation occurred in 1.8% and non-operative management was used in 31.6% of patients. Blunt mechanism of injury, crush injury, concomitant fractures/dislocations, and nerve injuries were associated with amputation, whereas simultaneous venous injury was not. There was a significant decrease in the rate of amputation when patients undergoing surgical revascularization did so within 90 min of injury (P = 0.007).

CONCLUSION

Injuries to arteries of the upper extremity are managed with open repair, endovascular repair, and, rarely, amputation. Expeditious transport to the operating room for revascularization is the key for limb salvage.

Differences in characteristics between patients ≥ 65 and < 65 years of age with orthopaedic injuries after severe trauma

Aim

Many trauma patients have associated orthopaedic injuries at admission. The existing literature regarding orthopaedic trauma often focuses on single injuries, but there is a paucity of information that gives an overview of this group of patients. Our aim was to describe the differences in characteristics between polytrauma patients ≥ 65 and < 65 years of age suffering orthopaedic injuries.

Methods

Patients registered in the Norwegian Trauma Registry (NTR) with an injury severity score (ISS) > 15 and orthopaedic injuries, who were admitted to Haukeland University Hospital in 2016–2018, were included. Data retrieved from the patients’ hospital records and NTR were analysed. The patients were divided into two groups based on age.

Results

The study comprised 175 patients, of which 128 (73%) and 47 (27%) were aged < 65 (Group 1) and ≥ 65 years (Group 2), respectively. The ISS and the new injury severity score (NISS) were similar in both groups. The dominating injury mechanism was traffic-related and thoracic injury was the most common location of main injury in both groups. The groups suffered a similar number of orthopaedic injuries. A significantly higher proportion of Group 1 underwent operative treatment for their orthopaedic injuries than in Group 2 (74% vs. 53%). The mortality in Group 2 was significantly higher than that in Group 1 (15% vs. 3%). In Group 2 most deaths were related to traffic injuries (71%). High energy falls and traffic-related incidents caused the same number of deaths in Group 1. In Group 1 abdominal injuries resulted in most deaths, while head injuries was the primary reason for deaths in Group 2.

Conclusions

Although the ISS and NISS were similar, mortality was significantly higher among patients aged ≥ 65 years compared to patients < 65 years of age. The younger age group underwent more frequently surgery for orthopaedic injuries than the elderly. There may be multiple reasons for this difference, but our study does not have sufficient data to draw any conclusions. Future studies may provide a deeper understanding of what causes treatment variation between age groups, which would hopefully help to further develop strategies to improve outcome for the elderly polytrauma patient.

Effects of job embeddedness and nursing working environment on turnover intention among trauma center nurses: A cross-sectional study

AIM

To investigate the effects of job embeddedness and nursing working environment on trauma center nurses' turnover intention.

BACKGROUND

Trauma center nurses have higher average turnover intention than hospital nurses. However, factors that increase the turnover intention of trauma center nurses remain unexplored.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted from August to October 2019, with 120 trauma center nurses working at three trauma centers in B, D, and U cities using measures of demographic characteristics, job embeddedness, nursing working environment, and turnover intention.

RESULTS

The mean turnover intention score was 3.60/5 points. There were significant correlations among turnover intention and fit, sacrifice, foundation for quality nursing, ability and leadership of nursing managers, cooperation of nurses and doctors, nurse participation in hospital management, and sufficient manpower and material support. Turnover intention was predicted by nurse participation in hospital management, gender, clinical experience, and fit, which explained 54%.

CONCLUSIONS

Factors that influence nurses' turnover intention at trauma centers were gender, clinical experience, job fit, and especially, nurses' participation in hospital management, which had the most effect on the nursing working environment.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING MANAGEMENT

To expand participation of trauma center nurses, hospital management systems and organizational culture need improvement.

Identification of concomitant injuries associated with specific spine level fractures in polytrauma patients

INTRODUCTION

Spine fractures are associated with high energy mechanisms and can lead to substantial morbidity and mortality in the trauma setting. Rapid identification and treatment of these fractures and their associated injuries are paramount in preventing adverse outcomes. The purpose of this study is to identify concomitant skeletal and non-skeletal injuries related to cervical, thoracic, and lumbar fractures.

METHODS

A retrospective review of institutional American College of Surgeons (ACS) registry was conducted on 3,399 consecutive trauma patients identifying those with spine fractures from 1/2016-12/2019. Two-hundred ninety patients were included(8.5%) and separated into three groups based on fracture location: eighty-eight cervical(C)-spine, 129thoracic(T)-spine, and 143lumbar(L)-spine. Logistic regression analyses were performed to identify associated injuries, presenting injury severity score(ISS) and Glasgow coma scale(GCS), mechanism of injury, demographic data, substance use, and paralysis for each group. Cox hazard regression was utilized to identify factors associated with inpatient mortality.

RESULTS

C-spine fractures were associated with head trauma(OR2.18,p = 0.003),intracranial bleeding (OR2.64,p = 0.001),facial(OR2.25,p = 0.02) and skull fractures(OR3.92,p = 0.001),and cervical cord injuries(OR4.78,p = 0.012). T-spine fractures were associated with rib fractures(OR2.31,p = 0.003). L-spine fractures were associated with rib(OR1.77, p = 0.04), pelvic(OR5.11,p<0.001), tibia/fibula (OR2.31,p = 0.05), and foot/ankle fractures(OR3.32,p = 0.04), thoracic(OR2.43,p = 0.008) and retroperitoneal cavity visceral injuries(OR27.3,p = 0.001). Falls≤6meters were also significantly associated with C-spine fractures(OR1.70,p = 0.04) while falls>6meters were associated with L-spine fractures(OR4.30,p = 0.001). Inpatient mortality risk increased in patients with C-spine fractures(HR4.41,p = 0.002), higher ISS(HR1.05, p<0.001), and lower GCS(HR0.85,p<0.001). Last, patients≥65-years-old were more likely to experience C-spine fractures(OR1.88,p = 0.03).

CONCLUSION

Patients who experience fractures of the cervical, thoracic, or lumbar spine are at risk for additional fractures, visceral injury, and/or death. Awareness of the associations between spinal fractures and other injuries can increase diagnostic efficacy, improve patient care, and provide valuable prognostic information. These associations highlight the importance of effective and timely communication and multidisciplinary collaboration.

Challenges in Predicting Discharge Disposition for Trauma and Emergency General Surgery Patients

BACKGROUND

Changes in discharge disposition and delays in discharge negatively impact the patient and hospital system. Our objectives were¹ to determine the accuracy with which trauma and emergency general surgery (TEGS) providers could predict the discharge disposition for patients and² determine the factors associated with incorrect predictions.

METHODS

Discharge dispositions and barriers to discharge for 200 TEGS patients were predicted individually by members of the multidisciplinary TEGS team within 24 h of patient admission. Univariate analyses and multivariable logistic least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regressions determined the associations between patient characteristics and correct predictions.

RESULTS

A total of 1,498 predictions of discharge disposition were made by the multidisciplinary TEGS team for 200 TEGS patients. Providers correctly predicted 74% of discharge dispositions. Prediction accuracy was not associated with clinical experience or job title. Incorrect predictions were independently associated with older age (OR 0.98; P < 0.001), trauma admission as compared to emergency general surgery (OR 0.33; P < 0.001), higher Injury Severity Scores (OR 0.96; P < 0.001), longer lengths of stay (OR 0.90; P < 0.001), frailty (OR 0.43; P = 0.001), ICU admission (OR 0.54; P < 0.001), and higher Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II scores (OR 0.94; P = 0.006).

CONCLUSION

The TEGS team can accurately predict the majority of discharge dispositions. Patients with risk factors for unpredictable dispositions should be flagged to better allocate appropriate resources and more intensively plan their discharges.

Transoral approach in facial penetrating trauma - importance of multidisciplinary management and nutritional support a case report

The high incidence and prevalence of facial trauma makes it important to consider related injuries and possible complications that may arise as a result. Penetrating trauma to the face, although not common, requires a surgeon with knowledge of the anatomy and physiology of the injured area and injury patterns.

We present a case of penetrating trauma to the face that was caused by a blunt object (stake) resulting from the felling of a palm tree. We describe the transoral management that was performed and the multidisciplinary support that allowed optimal management of the injury without complications, including functional or aesthetic sequelae.

•

The high incidence of facial trauma makes it crucial to consider related injuries and possible complications.

•

This article may help other physicians in the emergency setting managing similar injuries.

•

Transoral extraction of the foreign body may the best approach for some penetrating injuries. The surgeon must anticipate the possibility of other procedures in order to allow breathing and obtain nutritional support.

Clinical guidelines for neurorestorative therapies in spinal cord injury (2021 China version)

Treatment of spinal cord injury (SCI) remains challenging. Considering the rapid developments in neurorestorative therapies for SCI, we have revised and updated the Clinical Therapeutic Guidelines for Neurorestoration in Spinal Cord Injury (2016 Chinese version) of the Chinese Association of Neurorestoratology (Preparatory) and China Committee of International Association of Neurorestoratology. Treatment of SCI is a systematic multimodal process that aims to improve survival and restore neurological function. These guidelines cover real-world comprehensive neurorestorative management of acute, subacute, and chronic SCI and include assessment and diagnosis, pre-hospital first aid, treatment, rehabilitation, and complication management.

The effectiveness of educational interventions on trauma intensive care unit nurses' competence: A systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVES

To examine the current evidence on the effect of education on intensive care unit nurses' knowledge and skills competence in caring for adult major trauma patients.

METHODOLOGY

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to identify relevant studies through a comprehensive search, following strict eligibility criteria. Five databases were searched: MEDLINE, PubMed, CINAHL, Cochrane and Web of Science. A subsequent hand search was performed. The Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-Analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument tool was used to assess methodological quality.

RESULTS

Five eligible quantitative studies were identified and appraised. The overall results demonstrated that educational interventions have positive effects in improving intensive care nurses' knowledge and practice in managing major trauma patients. Meta-analysis was applied to three homogenous studies relating to knowledge outcome. Results demonstrated significant improvements immediately post-intervention and at one-to three-month follow-up [MD (mean difference) = 29.12, 95%CI (confidence interval) 10.29-47.95; P < 0.00001], and [MD = 23.70, 95%CI 8.84-38.56; P < 0.00001], respectively. A slight decrease in the knowledge and practice scores was noted from one- to three-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

This review demonstrated the significant effects of trauma education on improving intensive care nurses' knowledge and practices. Further research should develop valid competencies and policies to drive nurses' practice and potentially improve the safety and quality of care.

Multidisciplinary approach to degenerative cervical myelopathy

INTRODUCTION

Degenerative cervical myelopathy (DCM) is a prevalent condition causing significant impairment spanning several domains of health. A multidisciplinary approach to the care of DCM would be ideal in utilizing complex treatments from different disciplines to address broad patient needs.

AREAS COVERED

In this article the authors will discuss the importance of multidisciplinary care and establish a general framework for its use. The authors will then highlight the potential role of a multidisciplinary team in each aspect of DCM care including assessment, diagnosis, decision-making, surgical intervention, non-operative therapy, monitoring, and postoperative care.

EXPERT OPINION

In order to provide comprehensive personalized care to DCM patients, it is necessary to have a multidisciplinary team composed by a combination of the patient, surgeon, primary care practitioner, neurologist, anesthesiologist, radiologist, physiatrist, nurses, physiotherapist, occupational therapist, pain specialist, and social workers all functioning independently and communicating to achieve a common goal.

Emergency Trauma Providers as Equal Partners: From “Proof of Concept” to “Outcome Parity”

Enmeshment of emergency trauma providers (ETPs) into the United States health-care fabric resulted in the establishment of a formalized surgical critical care fellowship and certification for emergency medicine trainees. The aim of this study was to compare trauma outcomes for surgery-trained providers (STPs) and ETPs at our institution, hypothesizing patient outcome equivalency. We performed an institutional review board–exempt institutional registry review (January 1, 2004 to August 1, 2018), comparing 74 STPs and 6 ETPs. Comparator variables included all-cause mortality, all-cause morbidity, CTimaging studies per provider, time in ED (min), hospital/ICU lengths of stay, ICU admissions, and functional outcomes on discharge. Statistical comparisons included chi-square test for categorical data and analysis of covariance for continuous data (adjustments made for patient age, Injury Severity Score, and trauma mechanism; all P < 0.20). Statistical significance was set at P < 0.05, with an equivalence study design. A total of 33,577 trauma resuscitations were reviewed (32,299 STP-led and 1,278 ETP-led). Except for patient age (STP 50.2 ± 25.9 vs ETP 54.9 ± 25.3 years), Injury Severity Score (8.47 ± 8.14 vs 9.22 ± 8.40), and ICU admissions (16.1% vs 18.8%), we noted no significant intergroup differences. ETPs’ performance was equivalent to that of STPs for all primary comparator variables (mortality, morbidity, CT utilization, time in the ED, lengths of stay, and functional outcomes). Incorporation of ETPs into our trauma center resulted in outcome parity between ETPs and STPs, while simultaneously expanding the expertise and experiential diversity within our multidisciplinary team. This study provides support for further incorporation of ETPs as equal partners across the growing network of United States regional trauma centers.

Evaluation of multidisciplinary collaboration in pediatric trauma care using EHR data

OBJECTIVES

The study sought to identify collaborative electronic health record (EHR) usage patterns for pediatric trauma patients and determine how the usage patterns are related to patient outcomes.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A process mining-based network analysis was applied to EHR metadata and trauma registry data for a cohort of pediatric trauma patients with minor injuries at a Level I pediatric trauma center. The EHR metadata were processed into an event log that was segmented based on gaps in the temporal continuity of events. A usage pattern was constructed for each encounter by creating edges among functional roles that were captured within the same event log segment. These patterns were classified into groups using graph kernel and unsupervised spectral clustering methods. Demographics, clinical and network characteristics, and emergency department (ED) length of stay (LOS) of the groups were compared.

RESULTS

Three distinct usage patterns that differed by network density were discovered: fully connected (clique), partially connected, and disconnected (isolated). Compared with the fully connected pattern, encounters with the partially connected pattern had an adjusted median ED LOS that was significantly longer (242.6 [95% confidence interval, 236.9-246.0] minutes vs 295.2 [95% confidence, 289.2-297.8] minutes), more frequently seen among day shift and weekday arrivals, and involved otolaryngology, ophthalmology services, and child life specialists.

DISCUSSION

The clique-like usage pattern was associated with decreased ED LOS for the study cohort, suggesting greater degree of collaboration resulted in shorter stay.

CONCLUSIONS

Further investigation to understand and address causal factors can lead to improvement in multidisciplinary collaboration.

Cost-effectiveness of an integrated 'fast track' rehabilitation service for multi-trauma patients: A non-randomized clinical trial in the Netherlands

Background

Multidisciplinary rehabilitation has been recommended for multi-trauma patients, but there is only low-quality evidence to support its use with these patients. This study examined whether a Supported Fast track multi-Trauma Rehabilitation Service (Fast Track) was cost-effective compared to conventional trauma rehabilitation service (Care As Usual) in patients with multi-trauma from a societal perspective with a one-year follow-up.

Methods

An economic evaluation alongside a prospective, multi-center, non-randomized, controlled clinical study, was conducted in the Netherlands. The primary outcome measure was the Functional Independence Measure (FIM). Generic Quality of Life and Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALYs) of the patients were derived using the Short-form 36 Health Status Questionnaire.

Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratios (ICERs) were stated in terms of costs per unit of FIM improvement and costs per QALY. To investigate the uncertainty around the ICERs, non-parametric bootstrapping was used.

Results

In total, 132 patients participated, 65 Fast Track patients and 67 Care As Usual patients. Mean total costs per person were €18,918 higher in the Fast Track group than in the Care As Usual group. Average incremental effects on the FIM were 3.7 points (in favor of the Fast Track group) and the incremental (extra) bootstrapped costs were €19,033, resulting in an ICER for cost per FIM improvement of €5,177. Care As Usual dominated Fast Track in cost per QALY as it gave both higher QALYs and lower costs. All sensitivity analyses attested to the robustness of our results.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that a multidisciplinary rehabilitation program for multi-trauma patients according to the supported fast track principle is promising but cost-effectiveness evidence remains inconclusive. In terms of functional outcome, Fast Track was more expensive but yielded also more effects compared to the Care As Usual group. Looking at the costs per QALYs, unfavorable ICERs were found. Given the lack of a willingness-to-pay threshold for functional recovery and the relatively short time horizon, it is not possible to draw firm conclusions about the first.

Trial registration

(Current Controlled Trials register: ISRCTN68246661).

Effects of Trauma Center Establishment on the Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Patients with Traumatic Brain Injury : A Retrospective Analysis from a Single Trauma Center in Korea

Objective

To investigate the effects of trauma center establishment on the clinical characteristics and outcomes of trauma patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods

We enrolled 322 patients with severe trauma and TBI from January 2015 to December 2016. Clinical factors, indexes, and outcomes were compared before and after trauma center establishment (September 2015). The outcome was the Glasgow outcome scale classification at 3 months post-trauma.

Results

Of the 322 patients, 120 (37.3%) and 202 (62.7%) were admitted before and after trauma center establishment, respectively. The two groups were significantly different in age (p=0.038), the trauma location within the city (p=0.010), the proportion of intensive care unit (ICU) admissions (p=0.001), and the emergency room stay time (p<0.001). Mortality occurred in 37 patients (11.5%). Although the preventable death rate decreased from before to after center establishment (23.1% vs. 12.5%), the difference was not significant. None of the clinical factors, indexes, or outcomes were different from before to after center establishment for patients with severe TBI (Glasgow coma scale score ≤8). However, the proportion of inter-hospital transfers increased and the time to emergency room arrival was longer in both the entire cohort and patients with severe TBI after versus before trauma center establishment.

Conclusion

We confirmed that for patients with severe trauma and TBI, establishing a trauma center increased the proportion of ICU admissions and decreased the emergency room stay time and preventable death rate. However, management strategies for handling the high proportion of inter-hospital transfers and long times to emergency room arrival will be necessary.

Multidisciplinary team approach in the management of popliteal artery injury

Popliteal artery injuries (PAIs) remain a challenging entity and carry the greatest risk of limb loss among traumatic lower extremity vascular injuries. Operative management of traumatic popliteal vascular injuries continues to evolve. Improved diagnostic imaging and the introduction of endovascular techniques offered alternative modalities to traditional surgical management. Despite major efforts in establishing protocols and guidelines in the management of vascular trauma, optimal strategies of traumatic PAIs are still under investigation. Herein, we discussed the role of multidisciplinary team, involving trauma and endovascular surgeons, emergency department personnel, and interventional radiologists in the management of complex PAIs.

Complications during intrahospital transport of critically ill patients: Focus on risk identification and prevention

Intrahospital transportation of critically ill patients is associated with significant complications. In order to reduce overall risk to the patient, such transports should well organized, efficient, and accompanied by the proper monitoring, equipment, and personnel. Protocols and guidelines for patient transfers should be utilized universally across all healthcare facilities. Care delivered during transport and at the site of diagnostic testing or procedure should be equivalent to the level of care provided in the originating environment. Here we review the most common problems encountered during transport in the hospital setting, including various associated adverse outcomes. Our objective is to make medical practitioners, nurses, and ancillary health care personnel more aware of the potential for various complications that may occur during patient movement from the intensive care unit to other locations within a healthcare facility, focusing on risk reduction and preventive strategies.

Comorbidity polypharmacy score and its clinical utility: A pragmatic practitioner's perspective

Modern medical management of comorbid conditions has resulted in escalating use of multiple medications and the emergence of the twin phenomena of multimorbidity and polypharmacy. Current understanding of how the polypharmacy in conjunction with multimorbidity influences trauma outcomes is limited, although it is known that trauma patients are at increased risk for medication-related adverse events. The comorbidity-polypharmacy score (CPS) is a simple clinical tool that quantifies the overall severity of comorbidities using the polypharmacy as a surrogate for the "intensity" of treatment necessary to adequately control chronic medical conditions. Easy to calculate, CPS is derived by counting all known pre-injury comorbid conditions and medications. CPS has been independently associated with mortality, increased risk for complications, lower functional outcomes, readmissions, and longer hospital stays. In addition, CPS may help identify older trauma patients at risk of post-emergency department undertriage. The goal of this article was to review and refine the rationale for CPS and to provide an evidence-based outline of its potential clinical applications.

The 2014 Academic College of Emergency Experts in India's INDO-US Joint Working Group (JWG) White Paper on "Developing Trauma Sciences and Injury Care in India"

It is encouraging to see the much needed shift in the understanding and recognition of the concept of “burden of disease” in the context of traumatic injury. Equally important is understanding that the impact of trauma burden rivals that of nontraumatic morbidities.

Subsequently, this paradigm shift reinstates the appeal for timely interventions as the standard for management of traumatic emergencies. Emergency trauma care in India has been disorganized due to inadequate sensitivity toward patients affected by trauma as well as the haphazard, nonuniform acceptance of standardization as the norm. Some of the major hospitals across various regions in the country do have trauma care units, but even those lack protocols to ensure that all trauma cases are handled by those units, largely owing to lack of structured referral system.

As a first step to reform the state of trauma care in the country, a detailed overview is needed to gain insight into the prevailing reality. The objectives of this paper are to thus weave a foundation based on the statistical and qualitative burden of trauma in the country; the available infrastructure of trauma care centers equipped to deal with trauma; the need and scope of standardized protocols for intervention; and most importantly, the application of these in shaping educational initiatives in advancing emergency trauma care in the country.