Immunologic function in the elderly after injury--the neutrophil and innate immunity.

Background: Aging is associated with a decline in immune function. This may contribute to decreased ability of an elderly patient to mount an appropriate innate inflammatory response when injured. This study examined elderly trauma patients to determine whether there was a difference in neutrophil response to injury when compared with controls.

Autopsy data in the peer review process improves outcomes analysis.

Background: The value of autopsy findings has been questioned in peer review at mature trauma centers. We sought to determine the impact of autopsy data on the peer-review process.

Methods: This was a retrospective study.