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Factors improving survival in multisystem trauma patients
J A Moylan1, K T Fitzpatrick, A J Beyer
1Division of General and Thoracic Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710.
Annals of Surgery
|June 1, 1988
Summary
Air transport offers a survival advantage for critically injured patients with moderate trauma scores. Early interventions like intubation and transfusions were more common in air-transported patients, improving outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Emergency Medicine
- Trauma Surgery
- Transport Medicine
Background:
- Interhospital transport decisions for multisystem trauma patients are critical.
- Comparing air versus ground transport efficacy is essential for optimizing patient survival.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze the impact of air versus ground interhospital transport on survival rates in multisystem trauma patients.
- To identify factors contributing to survival differences between transport modalities.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of 136 air-transported and 194 ground-transported patients with multisystem injuries.
- Comparison of patient demographics, injury severity scores, and therapeutic interventions.
- Statistical analysis to determine survival advantage based on transport mode.
Main Results:
- Air-transported patients with trauma scores between 10 and 5 demonstrated a significant survival advantage (82.8% vs. 53.5%).
- Higher incidences of endotracheal intubation, blood transfusions, and fluid resuscitation in the air-transported group.
- Similar transport charges and overall hospital costs, influenced by length of stay.
Conclusions:
- Air transport is associated with improved survival for specific trauma patient populations.
- Timely and aggressive therapeutic interventions during transport contribute to better outcomes.
- Transport modality choice should consider patient acuity and potential for early critical care interventions.