"Predictors of Increased Mortality in Facial Trauma Patients Over 65"

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Medicine
• Trauma Surgery
• Public Health

Background:

• Facial trauma mortality is low overall (<1%) but significantly higher in elderly populations.
• Limited research exists on morbidity and mortality trends in elderly facial trauma patients.
• This study investigates complication rates and mortality in older adults with facial fractures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze complication rates and mortality data in elderly patients with facial trauma.
• To identify key risk factors associated with increased mortality in this demographic.
• To inform optimized management strategies for elderly facial trauma patients.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of patients aged 65+ with facial trauma (2017-2021).
• Exclusion of patients with pre-2017 trauma or insufficient follow-up data.
• Analysis of demographic, comorbidity, and outcome data.

Main Results:

• 15% of 238 elderly patients (mean age 76) expired during follow-up.
• Pre-existing cerebral vascular accident (CVA) or metastatic malignancy correlated with lower survival.
• Post-trauma CVA, metastatic malignancy, and peptic ulcer disease were linked to decreased survival; acetaminophen use was linked to increased survival.

Conclusions:

• Identified significant risk factors for mortality in elderly facial trauma patients.
• Highlights the need for proactive risk identification and optimized management strategies.
• Aims to improve survival rates for older adults experiencing facial injuries.