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Introduction: Injury is a major global health burden. Trauma registries have been used for decades to monitor the burden of injury and inform trauma care. However, the extent to which trauma registries have fulfilled their potential remains uncertain. The aims of this study were to determine the current and priority uses of trauma registries across Australia and New Zealand and to establish the priority clinical outcomes, the probability for which, if known for an individual trauma patient, would better inform that same patient's care, during hospital admission.Methods: A prospective observational study using survey methodology was conducted. Participants were sourced from the Australia New Zealand Trauma Registry (ATR) participating hospitals. The survey questions included: the current uses and priorities for both single-site trauma registries and the binational trauma registry; the five top-ranked priority outcomes for which knowing the probability, for an individual patient, would inform care; and the priority timepoints for applying patient-level outcome prediction models.Results: Of the 26 ATR-participating hospitals, 25 were represented by a total of 54 participants in the survey, including trauma service directors and trauma nurse coordinators. The main trauma registry use and priority for the single site registries was to inform the quality improvement program; for the ATR, the main use was periodic reporting and the main priority was benchmarking. For each potential purpose of the registry, the future priority level was ranked more highly than the current level of utilisation. The most highly ranked priority patient-level outcomes requiring prediction were: preventable death, missed injury, quality of life, admission costs, pulmonary embolism, post-traumatic stress disorder, length of hospital stay, errors in decision-making and deep venous thrombosis. The time period between leaving the emergency department and the 24 h mark following presentation was considered the preferred time for patient-level priority outcome prediction.Conclusion: There is a mismatch between current trauma registry uses and future priorities. The priority outcomes demanding prediction in the first 24 h of a trauma patient's stay are preventable death, missed injury, quality of life, hospital costs, thromboembolism, post-traumatic stress disorder, length of hospital stay and errors in clinical decision-making. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction and aims: The use of intravenous oxygen carriers (packed red blood cells (PRBC), whole blood and synthetic haemoglobins (HBOCs) for selected pre-hospital trauma resuscitation cases has been reported, despite a lack of validated clinical indications. The aim of this study was to retrospectively identify a sub-group of adult major trauma patients most likely to benefit from pre-hospital oxygen carrier administration and determine the predictive relationship between pre-hospital shock index (SI) [pulse rate/systolic blood pressure] and haemorrhagic shock, blood transfusion and mortality. Methods: A retrospective review of adult major trauma patients recorded in The Alfred Trauma Registry was conducted. Patients were included if they received at least 1L of pre-hospital crystalloid and spent over 30min in transit. The association of shock index and transfusion was determined. Patients were further sub-grouped by mode of transport to determine the population of trauma patients who could be included into prospective studies of intravenous oxygen carriers. Results: There were 1149 patients included of whom 311 (21.9%) received an acute blood transfusion. The SI correlated well with transfusion practice. A SI≥1.0, calculated after at least 1L of crystalloid transfusion, identified patients with a high specificity (93.5%; 95% CI: 91.8–94.8) for receiving a blood transfusion within 4h of hospital arrival. While patients transported by helicopter had higher injury severity and blood transfusion requirement, there were no difference in physiological variables and outcomes when compared to patients transported by road car. Conclusions: A shock index≥1.0 is an easily calculated variable that may identify patients for inclusion into trials for pre-hospital oxygen carriers. Shocked patients have high mortality rates whether transported by road car or by helicopter. The efficacy of pre-hospital intravenous oxygen carriers should be trialled using a shock index≥1.0 despite fluid resuscitation as the clinical trigger for administration. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Improvements in pre-hospital care and the development of integrated Trauma Systems have streamlined access for the severely injured to sophisticated, specialist Trauma Centre reception and resuscitation. We describe the initial care of a survivor of combined ruptures of the left ventricle and left atrium secondary to blunt injury. This case emphasises the contribution of such a Trauma System in achieving a favourable outcome for a severely injured trauma patient with injuries previously considered non-survivable. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Objective: To quantify the pharmacodynamic (PD) activity of daily subcutaneous (SC) enoxaparin as venous thromboembolism (VTE) prophylaxis in high-risk trauma patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU).Methods: This was a prospective observational PD study conducted in the ICU of a state-wide major trauma referral centre. The study cohort included adult patients admitted to the ICU with a high risk of VTE, as defined by at least one of the following: age > 40 years, prior VTE, spinal cord injury (SCI), traumatic brain injury (TBI), major venous injury, pelvic fractures, spinal fractures requiring treatment, severe lower limb injuries, and major surgery >2 h in duration. Standard prophylactic enoxaparin dosing was 40 mg SC daily, unless amended by the treating clinician. Plasma anti-Xa activity was measured approximately 60 min before dosing (trough activity), and at 3-5 h after dosing (peak activity). Target peak and trough activity were defined as >0.2 IU/mL and >0.1 IU/mL respectively. Clinical data including the development of VTE and haemorrhagic complications were collected.Results: Twenty-five patients were enrolled. Median [IQR] age, weight, and plasma creatinine were 59 years [36,70], 85 kg [76.5,93.5] and 70μmol/L [60.5,109] respectively. Median APACHE III and Injury Severity Score were 54 [42.5,66.5] and 27 [17,34] respectively. Thirteen patients suffered a TBI, in 12 cases surgery extended beyond two hours, and five patients had spinal fractures requiring treatment. Twenty-two patients received enoxaparin 40 mg SC daily, two 60 mg, and one 20 mg. Median peak and trough anti-Xa activity was 0.21 IU/mL [0.125,0.25] and 0.01 IU/mL [0,0.05] respectively. Twelve (12/25; 48%) patients had low peak activity ≤0.2 IU/mL. Twenty-one (21/23; 91%) patients had low trough activity (≤0.1 IU/mL) and in six (6/23; 26%) cases, these were undetectable. Eight (8/25; 32%) patients had documented VTE of whom seven had low trough activity. There were no major haemorrhagic complications.Conclusions: In a cohort of high risk critically ill trauma patients receiving daily SC enoxaparin as VTE chemoprophylaxis, measured peak and trough plasma anti-Xa activity was inadequate in a significant proportion. On this basis, further systematic investigation concerning dose optimisation in this patient population appears warranted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Traumatic spinal cord injury (SCI) is a devastating injury, frequently resulting in paralysis and a lifetime of medical and social problems. Reducing time to surgery may improve patient outcomes. A vital first step to reduce times is to map current pathways of care from injury to surgery, identify rapid care pathways and factors associated with rapid care pathway times.Methods: A retrospective review of the Alfred Trauma Service records was undertaken for all cases of spinal injury recorded in the Alfred Trauma Registry over a three year period. Patients with an Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) code matching 148 codes for spinal injury were included in the study. Information extracted from the Alfred Trauma Registry included demographic, clinical and key care timelines.Results: Of the 342 cases identified, 119 had SCI. The average age of SCI patients was 52 years, with 84% male. The vast majority of SCI patients experienced multiple concurrent injuries (87%). Median time from injury to surgery was 17 h r 28 min for SCI patients in comparison to 28 h r 23 min for non-SCI patients. Three pathways to surgery were identified following Trauma Centre presentation- transfer to surgery direct from trauma unit (median time to surgery was 4 h 17 min.), via Intensive Care (median time to surgery was 24 h 33 min) and via the ward (median time to surgery 28 h r 35 min.) SCI was independently associated with the fastest pathway - direct transfer from trauma unit to surgery - with 41% of SCI cases transferred directly to surgery from the trauma unit.Conclusion: Notwithstanding that the vast majority of SCI patients presented with other traumatic injuries, half of all SCI cases reached surgery within 18 h of injury, with 25% within 9 h. SCI was independently associated with direct transfer to surgery from the trauma unit. SCI patients achieve rapid times to surgery within a complex trauma service. Furthermore, the trauma system is well positioned to implement further time reductions to surgery for SCI patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the incidence and severity of blunt cardiac injury (BCI) as determined by cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR), and to compare this to currently used diagnostic methods in severely injured patients.Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective, pilot cohort study of 42 major trauma patients from July 2013 to Jan 2015. The cohort underwent CMR within 7 days, enrolling 21 patients with evidence of chest injury and an elevated Troponin I compared to 21 patients without chest injury who acted as controls. Major adverse cardiac events (MACE) including ventricular arrhythmia, unexplained hypotension requiring inotropes, or a requirement for cardiac surgery were recorded.Results: 6/21 (28%) patients with chest injuries had abnormal CMR scans, while all 21 control patients had normal scans. CMR abnormalities included myocardial oedema, regional wall motion abnormalities, and myocardial haemorrhage. The left ventricle was the commonest site of injury (5/6), followed by the right ventricle (2/6) and tricuspid valve (1/6). MACE occurred in 5 patients. Sensitivity and specificity values for CMR at predicting MACE were 60% (15-95) and 81% (54-96), which compared favourably with other tests.Conclusion: In this pilot trial, CMR was found to give detailed anatomic information of myocardial injury in patients with suspected BCI, and may have a role in the diagnosis and management of patients with suspected BCI. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Studies from high income countries suggest improved survival for females as compared to males following trauma. However, data regarding differences in trauma outcomes between females and males is severely lacking from low- and middle-income countries. The objective of this study was to determine the association between sex and clinical outcomes amongst Indian trauma patients using the Australia-India Trauma Systems Collaboration database. Methods A prospective multicentre cohort study was performed across four urban public hospitals in India April 2016 through February 2018. Bivariate analyses compared admission physiological parameters and mechanism of injury. Logistic regression assessed association of sex with the primary outcomes of 30-day and 24-hour in-hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes included ICU admission, ICU length of stay, ventilator requirement, and time on a ventilator. Results Of 8,605 patients, 1,574 (18.3%) were females. The most common mechanism of injury was falls for females (52.0%) and road traffic injury for males (49.5%). On unadjusted analysis, there was no difference in 30-day in-hospital mortality between females (11.6%) and males (12.6%, p = 0.323). However, females demonstrated a lower mortality at 24-hours (1.1% vs males 2.1%, p = 0.011) on unadjusted analysis. Females were also less likely to require a ventilator (17.3% vs 21.0% males, p = 0.001) or ICU admission (34.4% vs 37.5%, p = 0.028). Stratification by age or by ISS demonstrated no difference in 30-day in-hospital mortality for males vs females across age and ISS categories. On multivariable regression analysis, sex was not associated significantly with 30-day or 24-hour in-hospital mortality. Conclusion This study did not demonstrate a significant difference in the 30-day trauma mortality or 24-hour trauma mortality between female and male trauma patients in India on adjusted analyses. A more granular data is needed to understand the interplay of injury severity, immediate post-traumatic hormonal and immunological alterations, and the impact of gender-based disparities in acute care settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim To review the indications, complications and outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) in major trauma patients. Methods Single centre, retrospective, cohort study. Results Over a ten year period, from 13,420 major trauma patients, 11 were identified from our institutional trauma registry as having received ECMO. These patients were predominantly younger (mean 39 +/- 17 years), male (91%) and severely traumatised (median ISS 50, IQR 34 - 54). Veno-venous (VV) ECMO was used predominantly (n = 7, 64%), to treat hypoxic respiratory failure (mean PaO2/FiO2 ratio 69.7 +/- 38.6), secondary to traumatic lung injury. Veno-arterial (VA) ECMO was used less frequently, primarily to treat massive pulmonary embolism following trauma. Major bleeding complications occurred in four patients, however only one patient died from haemorrhage. Heparin free (2/11), delayed (3/11) or low dose heparin (2/11) therapy was frequently utilised. The median time from injury to ECMO initiation was 1 day (IQR 0.5 - 5.5) and median ECMO duration 9 days (IQR 6.5 - 10.5). ECMO was initiated <72 hours in 6 patients, with survival to discharge 67%, compared to 20% in those initiated >72 hours. Overall survival to discharge was 45%, and was higher with VV ECMO (64%), than other configurations (25%). Conclusion ECMO was rarely used in major trauma, the most common indication being severe hypoxaemic respiratory failure secondary to lung injury. In this severely injured cohort, overall survival was poor but better in VV compared to VA and better if initiated early (<72 hours), compared to late. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Objective: Despite multiple interventions, mortality due to severe traumatic brain injury (sTBI) within mature Trauma Systems has remained unchanged over the last decade. During this time, the use of vasoactive infusions (commonly norepinephrine) to achieve a target blood pressure and cerebral perfusion pressure (CPP) has been a mainstay of sTBI management. However, evidence suggests that norepinephrine, whilst raising blood pressure, may reduce cerebral oxygenation. This study aimed to review the available evidence that links norepinephrine augmented CPP to clinical outcomes for these patients.Methods: A systematic review examining the evidence for norepinephrine augmented CPP in TBI patients was undertaken. Strict inclusion and exclusion criteria were developed for a dedicated literature search of multiple scientific databases. Two dedicated reviewers screened articles, whilst a third dedicated reviewer resolved conflicts.Results: The systematic review yielded 4,809 articles, of which 1,197 duplicate articles were removed. After abstract/title screening, 45 articles underwent full text review, resulting in the identification of two articles that investigated the effect of norepinephrine administration on clinical outcomes in patients following TBI when compared to other vasopressors. Neither study found a difference in neurological outcome between the vasopressor groups. No articles measured the effect of norepinephrine compared to no vasopressor use on the clinical outcome of patients with sTBI.Conclusions: Despite being a mainstay of pharmacological management for hypotension in patients following sTBI, there is minimal clinical evidence supporting the use of norepinephrine in targeting a CPP for either improving neurological outcomes or reducing mortality. Outcomes-based clinical trials exploring the role of brain tissue perfusion and oxygenation monitoring are required to validate any benefit. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Reviewing prehospital trauma deaths provides an opportunity to identify system improvements that may reduce trauma mortality. The objective of this study was to identify the number and rate of potentially preventable trauma deaths through expert panel reviews of prehospital and early in-hospital trauma deaths.Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of prehospital and early in-hospital (<24 h) trauma deaths following a traumatic out-of-hospital cardiac arrest that were attended by Ambulance Victoria (AV) in the state of Victoria, Australia, between 2008 and 2014. Expert panels were used to review cases that had resuscitation attempted by paramedics and underwent a full autopsy. Patients with a mechanism of hanging, drowning or those with anatomical injuries deemed to be unsurvivable were excluded.Results: Of the 1183 cases that underwent full autopsies, resuscitation was attempted by paramedics in 336 (28%) cases. Of these, 113 cases (34%) were deemed to have potentially survivable injuries and underwent expert panel review. There were 90 (80%) deaths that were not preventable, 19 (17%) potentially preventable deaths and 4 (3%) preventable deaths. Potentially preventable or preventable deaths represented 20% of those cases that underwent review and 7% of cases that had attempted resuscitation.Conclusions: The number of potentially preventable or preventable trauma deaths in the pre-hospital and early in-hospital resuscitation phase was low. Specific circumstances were identified in which the trauma system could be further improved. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Multiple rib fractures have been shown to reduce quality of life both in the short and long term. Treatment of rib fractures with operative fixation reduces ventilator requirements, intensive care unit stay, and pulmonary complications in flail chest patients but has not been shown to improve quality of life in comparative studies to date. We therefore wanted to analyse a large cohort of multiple fractured rib trauma patients to see if rib fixation improved their quality of life.Methods: Retrospective review (January 2012 - April 2015) of prospectively collected data on 1482 consecutive major trauma patients admitted to The Alfred Hospital with rib fractures. The main outcome measures were Quality of Life over 24 months post injury assessed using the Glasgow Outcome Scale Extended (GOSErate) and Short Form (SF12) health assessment forms and a pain questionnaire.Results: 67 (4.5%) patients underwent rib fixation and were older, with a higher incidence of flail chest injury, and higher AIS and ISS scores than the remainder of the cohort. Rib fixation provided no benefit in pain, SF-12 or GOSErate scores over 24 months post injury.Conclusions: This study has not been able to demonstrate any quality of life benefit of rib fixation over 24 months post injury in patients with major trauma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Pelvic x-ray is frequently used as a screening tool during initial assessment of injured patients. However routine use in the awake and alert blunt trauma patient may be questioned due to low yield. We propose a clinical tool that may avoid unnecessary imaging by examining whether the ability to straight leg raise, without pain, can rule out pelvic injury.Methods: We conducted a prospective cohort study with the exposure variables of ability to straight leg raise and presence of pain on doing so, and presence of pelvic fracture on x-ray as the primary outcome variable.Results: Of the 328 participants, 35 had pelvic fractures, and of these 32 were either unable to straight leg raise, or had pain on doing so, with a sensitivity of 91.43% (95% CI: 76.94-98.2%) and a negative predictive value of 98.57% (95% CI: 95.88-99.70%). The 3 participants with a pelvic fracture who could straight leg raise with no pain, all had a GCS of less than 15, and therefore, among the sub-group of patients with GCS15, a 100% sensitivity and 100% negative predictive value for straight leg raise with no pain to rule out pelvic fracture was demonstrated.Conclusion: Among awake, alert patients, painless straight leg raise can exclude pelvic fractures and be incorporated into initial examination during reception and resuscitation of injured patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulmonary thromboembolism (PTE) is a dangerous complication of traumatic injury, with varied risk profiles and treatment options. This review aims to describe reported incidence and variables associated with PTE among severely injured patients.Methods: Searches were conducted using PubMed, Cochrane and MEDLINE. Relevant studies were identified by two independent reviewers based on predetermined inclusion criteria. Incidence of PTE was the primary outcome measure. Variables associated with PTE was the secondary outcome measure. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale was used to assess quality of included studies.Results: There were eight studies that satisfied inclusion criteria. The diagnosed incidence of PTE in these populations ranged from 0.35 to 24%. The most common variables associated with PTE were pelvic or lower limb injury, chest injury, higher total Injury Severity Score, male sex and age. Variables that were less commonly associated with PTE were previous warfarin use, head injury, high serum lactate, soft tissue injury, more than one operation, more than three days on a ventilator, presence of a subclavian central venous catheter, need for a blood transfusion, systolic blood pressure <90mmHg, abdominal injury, presence of a deep venous thrombosis, inferior vena cava filter placement and isolated liver spleen or spinal injuries.Conclusions: The reported incidence of PTE after major trauma is variable and dependent on inclusion criteria, diagnostic criteria and study design. Identified variables differed to those reported for venous thromboembolism in other populations. It is difficult to predict populations at risk of clinically significant PTE following injury using available evidence. Further studies linked to patient-specific variables will assist in more precise risk-stratification and interventions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Detecting occult bleeding can be challenging and may delay resuscitation. The Shock Index (SI) defined as heart rate divided by systolic blood pressure has attracted attention. Prediction models using combinations of pre-hospital SI (phSI) and the trauma centre SI (tcSI) values may be effective in identifying patients requiring massive blood transfusions (MT). Aim To explore whether combinations of the phSI and the tcSI augment MT prediction. Methods The scores were retrospectively developed using all major trauma patients that presented to The Alfred Hospital between 2006 and 2012. The first PH and TC observations were used. To avoid exclusion of the ‘sickest’ patients, the SI was imputed to 2 where SBP was missing, but HR was present. We developed 4 models. (i) ‘Dichotomised’, defined as positive when both phSI and tcSI were ≥1. (ii) ‘Formulaic’, defined by logistic regression analysis. (iii) ‘Combination’, defined pragmatically based on the logistic regression. (iv) ‘Trending’, defined as: tcSI minus phSI. Results There were 6990 major trauma patients and 360 (5.2%) received MT. There were 1371 cases with either phSI or tcSI missing and were thus excluded from the analysis. The ‘Dichotomised’ had higher positive predictive value than the tcSI with a further 5 per 100 patients identified. The ‘Formulaic’ model, defined as: log Odds (MT) = 2.16 × tcSI + 0.89 × phSI − 5.42, and the ‘Combination’ model, defined as: phSI × 0.5 + tcSI, performed equally (AUROC 0.83 versus 0.83, χ 2 = 0.86, p = 0.35). The ‘Formulaic’ performed marginally, but statistically significantly, more accurate than the tcSI alone (AUROC 0.83 versus 0.82, χ 2 = 6.89, p < 0.01). An ‘Upward Trending’ SI was observed in 1758 patients, revealing a 4.6-fold univariate association with MT (OR 4.55; 95%CI 2.64–7.83), and an AUROC of 0.79 (95%CI 0.74–0.83). The ‘Downward Trending’ SI was protective against MT (OR 0.44; 95%CI 0.34–0.57). Conclusion The initial pre-hospital SI is associated with MT. However, this relationship did not clinically augment MT decision when combined with the in-hospital SI. The simplicity of the SI makes it a favourable option to explore further. Computer-assisted technology in data capturing, analysis and prognostication presents avenues for further research. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion is often essential during trauma resuscitation but is associated with high cost and potential adverse outcomes. This study aimed to determine the incidence of potentially avoidable RBC transfusions (PAT) among adult major trauma patients. Materials and methods A retrospective review of data collected by Registry on patients presenting between Jan 2006 and Dec 2011 was conducted. Eligible patients received at least 1 unit of RBC in the first 24 h following presentation to the Emergency Department (ED). Episodes of PAT were determined according to haemodynamic stability and post-transfusion haemoglobin levels. Results There were 621 patients included, of whom 224 (36.1%; 95% CI: 32.3–40.0) received PAT. Of them, 132 (58.9%) were haemodynamically stable on arrival and did not require a surgical procedure. Patients with PAT had significantly lower injury severity scores (30 vs 34, p < 0.01), higher presenting systolic blood pressure (129 vs 112 mm Hg, p < 0.01) and a lower frequency of a shock index ≥1 (24.1 vs 65.0%, p < 0.01), compared to those without PAT. They also had a significantly lower mortality (13.4 vs 21.7%, p < 0.01). Conclusions PAT after trauma was common and often delivered to haemodynamically stable patients who did not require surgical procedures. Clinical decision pathways for trauma resuscitation should aim to limit PAT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction Older age and blood transfusion have both been independently associated with higher mortality post trauma and the combination is expected to be associated with catastrophic outcomes. Among patients who received a massive transfusion post trauma, we aimed to investigate mortality at hospital discharge of patients =65 years old and explore variables associated with poor outcomes. Methods A retrospective review of registry data on all major trauma patients presenting to a level I trauma centre between 2006 and 2011 was conducted. Mortality at hospital discharge among patients =65 years old was compared to the younger cohort. A multivariable logistic regression model was constructed to determine independent risk-factors for mortality among older patients. Results There were 51 (16.4%) patients of age =65 years who received a massive transfusion. There were 20 (39.2%) deaths, a proportion significantly higher than 55 (21.1%) deaths among younger patients ( p < 0.01). Pre-hospital GCS, the presence of acute traumatic coagulopathy and higher systolic blood pressure on presentation were independently associated with higher mortality. Age and volume of red cells transfused were not significantly associated with higher mortality. Conclusions Survival to hospital discharge was demonstrated in elderly patients receiving massive transfusions post trauma, even in the presence of multiple risk factors for mortality. Restrictive resuscitation or transfusion on the basis of age alone cannot be supported. Early aggressive resuscitation of elderly trauma patients along specific guidelines directed at the geriatric population is justified and may further improve outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Introduction: An audit of ambulance service clinical records from 2001 to 2002 in Melbourne, Australia revealed 10 patients with tension pneumothorax on arrival at hospital which had been undetected or untreated by paramedics. The clinical practice guideline for paramedic recognition of tension pneumothorax was subsequently changed to emphasise heightened clinical suspicion of a tension pneumothorax in the setting of chest trauma, especially when patients were managed with positive pressure ventilation. This study was undertaken to determine whether the number of undetected or untreated tension pneumothoraces had decreased after the new clinical practice guideline and associated education program; if there were unintended consequences arising from earlier paramedic intervention; and what effect, if any, this change had on subsequent hospital treatment. Methods: Retrospective case note review of all patients requiring intercostal catheter (ICC) insertion at The Alfred Hospital, Melbourne, Australia, using records from Ambulance Victoria, the Alfred Trauma Registry and the National Coronial Information System. Results: In 2001–2002 paramedics treated 22 patients with suspected tension pneumothorax before transport to the Alfred Hospital. In 2006–2007 this number had increased to 81. There was a decrease from ten to four in the number of unrecognised or untreated tension pneumothoraces between the two time periods. No unintended or adverse consequences of prehospital needle decompression could be found. However, there was an increase in the number of patients who had prehospital needle decompression that needed further treatment for tension pneumothorax on arrival at hospital. This need for further treatment was associated with use of shorter cannulas and unilateral needle decompression by paramedics. Conclusion: A small change in clinical practice guidelines, supported by an education and audit program, led to a reduction in unrecognised untreated tension pneumothoraces by paramedics without an increase in complications. Paramedics should be aware that a shorter cannula may fail to reach the pleural space and that both sides of the chest may require decompression. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: There is a paucity of research into the outcomes and complications of cervical spine immobilisation (hard collar or halothoracic brace) in older people. Aims: To identify morbidity and mortality outcomes using geriatric medicine assessment techniques following cervical immobilisation in older people with isolated cervical spine fractures. Patients and methods: We identified participants using an injury database. We completed a questionnaire measuring pre-admission medical co-morbidities and functional independence. We recorded the surgical plan and all complications. A further questionnaire was completed three months later recording complications and functional independence. Results: Sixteen patients were recruited over a three month period. Eight were immobilised with halothoracic brace, 8 with external hard collar. Three deaths occurred during the study. Lower respiratory tract infection was the most common complication (7/16) followed by delirium (6/16). Most patients were unable to return home following the acute admission, requiring sub-acute care on discharge. The majority of patients were from home prior to a fall, 6/16 were residing there at 3 months. Most participants had an increase in their care needs at 3 months. There was no difference in the type or incidence of complications between the different modes of immobilisation. Conclusions: Geriatric medicine assessment techniques identified the morbidity and functional impairment associated with cervical spine immobilisation. This often results in a prolonged length of stay in supported care. This small pilot study recommends a larger study over a longer period using geriatric medicine assessment techniques to better define the issues. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to establish the profile and outcomes of paediatric major trauma care (PTMC) within an integrated inclusive regionalised trauma system. Methods: Prospectively collected data from July 2001 to June 2009 from the Victorian State Trauma Registry of patients aged <18 years were reviewed. Results: There were 1634 major trauma cases with a median (IQR) age of 13 (6–16) years and 69% were male. The median ISS (IQR) was 18 (16–26). There were 1361 patients treated at a major trauma centre of which 69% (n =943) were treated at the PMTC. Head injury (AIS>2) was the most frequent injury (n =950, 58%). Surgery was required in 39% (n =637) of all cases; 437 patients in the 10–17 year old group and 200 patients in the 0–9 year old group; the mortality was 6.6%. There were 530 patients (32.4%) ventilated in ICU; these had a median ISS (IQR) of 25 (17–34) and mortality of 7.4%. Improvements in risk-adjusted mortality have occurred as the years have progressed [adjusted OR 95% CI: 0.87 (0.76, 0.99)] and being treated at a Level 1 trauma centre was associated with lower adjusted odds of mortality [adjusted OR 95% CI: 0.27 (0.11, 0.68)]. Conclusion: The establishment of this integrated inclusive regionalised trauma system has been associated with progressively improving risk-adjusted mortality. The relatively low volume of major trauma requiring surgery in the 0–9 year old age group is notable, creating a challenging environment for maintaining skills and institutional preparedness. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction and aims: Acute traumatic coagulopathy is observed in 10–25% of patients post major trauma and its management forms an integral part of haemostatic resuscitation. The identification and treatment of this coagulopathy is difficult and there is uncertainty regarding optimal therapeutic guidelines during the early phases of trauma resuscitation. This study aimed to examine the association between acute coagulopathy and early deaths post major trauma. Methods: A retrospective review of data over a 5 year period was performed to determine the associations between variables considered to contribute to mortality for adult major trauma patients (Injury Severity Score (ISS)>15) receiving blood transfusions as part of their initial resuscitation. Early death, defined as death in ED, or death in the operating theatre (OT), Intensive Care Unit (ICU) or wards within 24h of admission was the primary end-point. Patients with non-survivable head injury on initial imaging were excluded. Univariate associations were calculated and multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine independent associations with mortality. Results: There were 772 patients included in this study with a median ISS of 29 (19–41), with 91.7% blunt trauma. All-cause in-hospital mortality was 17.5%, while 77 (9.7%) patients died early. Increasing age (OR 1.04), a GCS of 3–8 (OR 5.05), and the presence of acute coagulopathy (OR 8.77) were significant independent variables associated with early death. Conclusions: Acute traumatic coagulopathy, independent of injury severity, transfusion practice or other physiological markers for haemorrhage, was associated with early death in major trauma patients requiring a blood transfusion. Early recognition and management of coagulopathy, independent of massive transfusion guidelines, may improve outcome from trauma resuscitation. Further studies are required for the early recognition of acute traumatic coagulopathy to enable the development of an evidence base for management. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Background: During trauma resuscitation, blind catheterization of an injured urethra may aggravate the injury by disrupting a partially torn urethra. In busy trauma centers, retrograde urethrograms (RUG) prior to catheterisation for all patients with unstable pelvic fractures presents a challenge during trauma resuscitation, and the procedure is not commonly practiced despite Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) and World Health Organisation recommendations. The aim of this study was to determine the presenting clinical features of patients with urethral injuries and to predict major trauma patients needing further investigation to exclude this injury. Methods: A retrospective review of adult major trauma patients diagnosed with urethral injuries during an 8-year period at a major trauma centre, was conducted. Results: There were 998 major trauma patients with fractures of the pelvis over the study period, of whom 223 had pubic symphysis disruption. There were 29 patients with urethral injuries. The sensitivity of any one of the traditional signs of urethral trauma was 66.7% (95% CI: 46.0–82.8). After exclusion of patients with penetrating trauma and iatrogenic injuries, pubic symphysis disruption on initial pelvis AP X-ray and/or the clinical signs of urethral injury had a sensitivity of 100% (95% CI: 84.4–100.0) for urethral trauma. Discussion: Reliance on clinical features alone to predict urethral injury results in a substantial proportion of missed injuries in major trauma patients. RUGs did not appear to be needed in patients with no disruption of the pubic symphysis on initial pelvis X-ray or where no signs of urethral injury are present. In the absence of clinical signs and pubic symphysis disruption, blind urethral catheterisation may be attempted. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: The aim of effective clinical handover is seamless transfer of information between care providers. Handover between paramedics and the trauma team provides challenges in ensuring that information loss does not occur. Handover is often time-pressured and paramedics’ clinical notes are often delayed in reaching the trauma team. Documentation by trauma team members must be accurate. This study evaluated information loss and discordance as patients were transferred from the scene of an incident to the Trauma Centre. Methods: Twenty-five trauma patients presenting by ambulance to a tertiary Emergency and Trauma Centre were randomly selected. Audiotaped (pre-hospital) and videotaped (in-hospital) handover was compared with written documentation. Results: In the pre-hospital setting 171/228 (75%) of data items handed over by paramedics to the trauma team were documented and in the in-hospital handover 335/498 (67%) of information was documented. Information least likely to be documented by trauma team members (1) in the pre-hospital setting related to treatment provided and (2) in the in-hospital setting related to signs and symptoms. While 79% of information was subsequently documented by paramedics, 9% (n =59) of information was not documented either by trauma team members or paramedics and constitutes information loss. Information handed over was not congruent with documentation on seven occasions. Discrepancies included a patient''s allergy status and sites of injury (n =2). Demographic details were most likely to be documented but not handed over by paramedics. Conclusion: By documenting where deficits in handover occur we can identify points of vulnerability and strategies to capture this information. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Aims: To comprehensively examine the inter-hospital transfer of major trauma patients—including the reason for transfer, duration, escorts, interventions and unexpected events. Methods: This was an detailed study of the transfer of major trauma cases in the State of Victoria, Australia, between April 16, 2003 and December 31, 2004. Twenty-three hospitals and seven transfer/retrieval services participated. Defined major trauma cases that were transferred between participating hospitals for the purpose of definitive care were eligible for enrolment. The transfer phase extended from 30min before until 30min after the transfer. The transferring and receiving hospitals and the transfer escorts were asked to record data on a specifically designed data collection form. Results: A total of 451 cases were enrolled (mean Injury Severity Score 22.2). Transfers originated mainly from Regional Trauma (42.8%) and Metropolitan Trauma (31.3%) Services and most (90.5%) terminated at a Major Trauma Service. Median time from injury to arrival at the receiving hospital was 8h 30min. Median time from arrival at referring hospital to request for transfer was 3h 25min. Escorts comprised ambulance and medical/nursing staff in 67.0% and 30.4% of cases, respectively. Metropolitan retrieval services were involved in only 10% of cases. Medical escorts were mainly (62.9%) from the referring hospital and the majority of these were registrars (49.4%) and hospital medical officers (HMOs, 16.9%). Overall mortality was 6.2%. Mortality rates for cases escorted by referring hospital doctors, Mobile Intensive Care Ambulance (MICA), non-MICA and any other escorts were 14.5%, 6.0%, 2.6% and 4.3%, respectively. HMO escorts had the highest mortality risk (OR 3.67, 95%CI 1.00–13.49, p <0.001). Mortality risk was greatest for cases that required administration of vasopressor drugs (OR 11.4, 95%CI 3.78–34.36, p <0.001), intubation prior to arrival at the referring hospital (OR 10.36, 95%CI 3.51–30.52, p <0.001), any interventions at the referring hospital (OR 8.3, 95%CI 3.1–22.2, p <0.001), administration of blood at the receiving hospital (OR 4.91, 95%CI 1.5–16.1, p =0.01), and cases using escorts from the referring hospital (OR 3.8, 95%CI 1.69–8.39, p =0.001). Conclusion: Considerable variability in request for transfer and transfer times, transfer escorts and mortality risk exist. The single greatest issue identified that most severely injured group were escorted by the most junior doctors (HMOs) and had the highest mortality. This crucial issue must be addressed by the State Trauma System and by any redesigned retrieval service in Victoria. A detailed review of activation and responsiveness criteria and the nature of the transfer escort is indicated. The establishment of Adult Retrieval Victoria may address many of the concerns raised by this study. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Abstract: Introduction: Recent retrospective studies have found high fresh frozen plasma (FFP) to packed red blood cell (PRBC) ratios during trauma resuscitation to be associated with improved mortality. Whilst this association may be related to a mortality bias present in these studies, there has been an overall tendency towards a 1:1 FFP:PRBC ratio in massive transfusion guidelines worldwide. The aim of this study was to retrospectively review the administration of FFP in patients undergoing massive transfusion during trauma resuscitation, to add to the evidence base for massive transfusion guidelines. Materials and methods: Multi-trauma patients who were administered blood transfusions of 5units or more of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) in the first 4h were included in this study. Mortality was the primary endpoint with length of hospital stay, ICU hours and mechanically ventilated hours secondary endpoints. Results: There were 331 patients included in this study with a median Injury Severity Score (ISS) of 36 (25–50) and a mortality of 29.9%. There was little change in the ratio of FFP:PRBC transfused per patient from 2005 to 2008. A low FFP:PRBC ratio in the first 4h of resuscitation, older age, low initial GCS and coagulopathy on presentation were significant independent factors associated with mortality. When deaths in the first 24h were excluded, the FFP:PRBC ratio had no association with mortality. Discussion: This study has shown increased initial survival in association with higher FFP:PRBC ratios during massive transfusion in a population with a high proportion of blunt injuries. The association is difficult to interpret because of an inherent survival bias. The optimal ratio of FFP:PRBC during massive transfusion may be different to 1:1 and further prospective research is required. There is now an increasing need for well designed randomised controlled trials to determine the best FFP:PRBC ratio for the resuscitation of blunt multi-trauma patients. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Aims: To review the massive transfusion practice at a Level I adult Trauma Centre during initial trauma reception and resuscitation. Methods: All trauma patients presenting to The Alfred Emergency & Trauma Centre and receiving a transfusion of five units or more of packed red blood cells within 4h of presentation over a 26-month period were included in this study. Patient demographics, clinical characteristics, injuries, surgical management and volume of blood transfused were analysed with mortality as the primary endpoint. Initial clinical features and injuries predictive of massive transfusion were also analysed. Results: There were 119 patients who received a transfusion of five units or more of packed red blood cells (PRBCs) within 4h of presentation. The median Injury Severity Score of this group of patients was 34.0 (IQR 26–48) and mortality was 27.7%. The median number of packed red blood cell transfused was 8.0 (IQR 6–14) in the 1st 4h. Initial clinical features and injuries independently associated with a larger volume of blood transfused were initial hypotension, fractures of the pelvis, kidney injuries, initial acidaemia, and thrombocytopaenia. The Injury Severity Score, initial coagulopathy measured by APTT and the presence of head injuries were the independent predictors of mortality. Conclusions: The volume of blood transfused during trauma resuscitation was not found to be an independent predictor of mortality. Prospective studies into transfusion practice and clinical features of patients during the trauma resuscitation phase requiring massive transfusion are needed to establish evidence-based guidelines for massive transfusion. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: Introduction: The use of guidelines regarding the termination or withholding of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) in traumatic cardiac arrest patients remains controversial. This study aimed to describe the outcomes for victims of penetrating and blunt trauma who received prehospital CPR. Methods: We conducted a retrospective review of a statewide major trauma registry using data from 2001 to 2004. Subjects suffered penetrating or blunt trauma, received CPR in the field by paramedics and were transported to hospital. Demographics, vital signs, injury severity, prehospital time, length of stay and mortality data were collected and analysed. Results: Eighty-nine patients met inclusion criteria. Eighty percent of these were blunt trauma victims, with a mortality rate of 97%, while penetrating trauma patients had a mortality rate of 89%. The overall mortality rate was 95%. Sixty-six percent of patients had a length of stay of less than 1 day. Four patients survived to discharge, of which two were penetrating and two were blunt injuries. Hypoxia and electrical injury were probable associated causes of two cardiac arrests seen in survivors of blunt injury. Conclusions: While only a small number of penetrating and blunt trauma patients receiving CPR survived to discharge, this therapy is not always futile. Prehospital emergency personnel need to be aware of possible hypoxic and electrical causes for cardiac arrest appearing in combination with traumatic injuries. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Summary: The incidence of major trauma and associated fatalities in the State of Victoria, Australia, have declined over 20 years following the successful implementation of strategies to modify environmental and behavioural factors that contribute to motor vehicle injuries. However, several system deficiencies in the management of major trauma patients had remained unresolved. To investigate these shortfalls the State Government of Victoria established a taskforce in 1997 to review trauma and emergency services. The taskforce adopted the principle of “the right patient to the right hospital in the shortest time” and in 2000 began to deploy an integrated State Trauma System. Implementation of such a system required the designation of specific hospitals of various levels to care for trauma patients; the concentration of trauma expertise at these centres; integration and coordination between the service providers; development of agreed triage and transfer protocols and improved education, training and research programs. A statewide major trauma database was established to enable system monitoring and facilitate further enhancements. The Victorian experience with the development of an integrated trauma system should aid in the development of similar systems nationally and internationally and is described in this paper. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

This article proposes a counter-argument to standard Advanced Trauma Life Support (ATLS) training – which advocates bladder catheterisation to be performed as an adjunct to the primary survey and resuscitation for early decompression of the bladder and urine output monitoring. We argue the case for delaying bladder catheterisation until after definitive truncal Computed Tomography (CT) imaging. To reduce pelvic volume and associated bleeding, our trauma team delay catheter insertion until after the initial CT scan. The benefits of a full bladder also include improved views on initial Focussed Assessment with Sonography in Trauma (FAST) scan and improved interpretation of injuries on CT. Our urinary catheter related infection rates anecdotally decreased when insertion was delayed and consequently performed in a more controlled, non-resuscitation setting following CT. Adult blunt multitrauma patients with pelvic ring fractures are at risk of significant haemorrhage. Venous, arterial and medullary injuries with associated bleeding may be potentiated by an increased pelvic volume with ring disruption, as well as a reduced pressure effect from retroperitoneal and intra-pelvic organs on bleeding sites. Various techniques are used to reduce intra-pelvic bleeding. For shocked patients who have sustained major pelvic injuries with no other signs of urinary tract trauma and minimal urine in the bladder on initial FAST scan, we advocate careful, aseptic Foley catheter insertion followed by bladder insufflation with 500–600 mL of Normal Saline (NS) and subsequent catheter clamping to tamponade pelvic bleeding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]