An Observational Study on Clinical Features, Management and Outcomes of Chest Trauma

Abstract

Introduction-Trauma is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Approximately two thirds of trauma cases have chest injuries with varying severity.Mortality is second highest after head injuries,which underlines the importance of prompt diagnosis and treatment.Methods-An observational prospective study was carried out for chest trauma patients including polytrauma. Parameters like demographic prole,mode of injury,management and outcomes were studied.Results-Mean age of the patients was 38.5 years with male to female ratio of 2.4:1. RTAs are most common cause of trauma(60%) followed by assaults(34%).Many patients were managed conservatively(58%), others needed tube thoracostomy(42%).Mortality is seen in 5% due to other associated severe injuries.Conclusion-Blunt thoracic trauma is frequent but emergency open surgical interventions are rare.Mortality is directly related to severity of injury.There is need for implementation of evidence based road safety interventions and promote strong policies to decrease the incidence of RTAs.