Outcomes of Trauma Admission for Falls: Influence of Race and Age on In-hospital and Post-Discharge Mortality

• Published in: The American journal of surgery 2016-07, Vol.212 (4), p.638-644
• Main Authors: Strong, Bethany L., MD, MS, Torain, Jamila M., MPH, Greene, Christina R., MS, Smith, Gordon S., MB, ChB, MPH
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Surgery
• ISSN: 0002-9610; 1879-1883
• DOI: 10.1016/j.amjsurg.2016.06.002

Abstract Background Racial disparities in trauma outcomes occur but disparities in fall mortality are unknown. Objectives To determine in-hospital and one-year fall mortality among patients discharged from an urban trauma center. Methods We conducted a retrospective analysis of fall patients in our trauma registry (1997-2008) linked to the National Death Index to determine post-discharge mortality. Statistical analysis included chi-squared tests, multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models. Results There were 7,541 fall admissions. There was no clinically significant difference in in-hospital mortality between blacks and whites with age stratification. One year post-discharge, Blacks younger than 65 were more likely to die of disease (HR 1.37; 95% CI 1.14-1.62). Conclusion While rates of in-hospital mortality are similar, Blacks under the age of 65 have a higher risk of dying following discharge due to disease when stratified by age highlighting the need for continued medical follow up and prevention efforts.