Predictors of Dependency in Geriatric Trauma Patients with Rib Fractures: A Population Study

The geriatric trauma population is unique. These patients are at risk of being discharged to rehabilitation or a skilled nursing facility, instead of being returned to their homes, placing a significant burden on both the patient families and society. This study evaluated which patient characteristics increase the likelihood of a previously independent geriatric blunt trauma becoming functionally dependent and being discharged to a location other than home. Data were extracted from the National Trauma Data Bank from 2012 to 2014 for blunt trauma patients ≥65 years old, admitted from home, with one or more rib fractures. Primary outcomes were discharge home versus a facility. Subgroup analysis evaluated disposition to acute short-term rehabilitation or subacute rehabilitation or skilled nursing facility. Multivariable analysis was used to calculate probabilities of disposition based on the above variables, controlling for comorbidities. Sixteen thousand six hundred thirty-two patients were included. Only 58 per cent were discharged home. Increased age, ≥4 rib fractures, white race, and female gender were found to increase the risk of discharge to a facility. In addition, patients with chronic renal failure, history of diabetes, obesity, or heart failure were less likely to be discharged home. This study shows that age, gender, race, and the number of rib fractures are statistically significant in predicting which patients are less likely to be discharged home. This reinforces the need for the development of triage and treatment protocols in this higher risk population, to decrease the social and financial burden of these injuries.