Major Risk Factors for Mortality in Elderly and Non-Elderly Adult Patients Emergently Admitted for Blunt Chest Wall Trauma: Hospital Length of Stay as an Independent Predictor

Abstract

Background: Blunt thoracic trauma is responsible for 35% of trauma-related deaths in the United States and significantly contributes to morbidity and healthcare-related financial strain. The goal of this study was to evaluate factors influencing mortality in patients emergently admitted with the primary diagnosis of blunt chest wall trauma. Methods: Adults emergently admitted for blunt chest trauma were assessed using the National Inpatient Sample Database, 2004–2014. Data regarding demographics, comorbidities, and outcomes were collected. Relationships were determined using univariable and multivariable logistic regression models. Results: In total, 1120 adult and 1038 elderly patients emergently admitted with blunt chest trauma were assessed; 46.3% were female, and 53.6% were male. The average ages of adult and elderly patients were 46.6 and 78.9 years, respectively. Elderly and adult patients both displayed mortality rates of 1%. The regression model showed HLOS and several comorbidities as the main risk factors of mortality Every additional day of hospitalization increased the odds of mortality by 9% (OR = 1.09, 95% CI = 1.01–1.18, p = 0.033). Mortality and liver disease were significantly associated (OR = 8.36, 95% CI = 2.23–31.37, p = 0.002). Respiratory disease and mortality rates demonstrated robust correlations (OR = 7.46, 95% CI = 1.63–34.11, p = 0.010). Trauma, burns, and poisons were associated with increased mortality (OR = 3.72, 95% CI = 1.18–11.71, p = 0.025). The presence of platelet/white blood cell disease correlated to higher mortality. (OR = 4.42, 95% CI = 1.09–17.91, p = 0.038).