Pelvic fractures as a marker of injury severity in trauma patients.

Objective: To assess whether the presence of a pelvic fracture is associated with greater severity and worse prognosis in victims of blunt trauma.

Methods: A retrospective analysis of protocols and records of victims of blunt trauma admitted from June 2008 to March 2009 was separated into two groups: those with pelvic fracture (Group I) and those without it (Group II). Data were collected from pre-hospital admission rates of trauma, laboratory tests, diagnosed lesions, treatment and outcome.

[Severe injuries from falls on the same level].

Objective: Assess characteristics of trauma patients who sustained falls from their own height, more specifically focusing on presence of severe injuries, diagnosis and treatment.

Methods: Retrospective study including all adult blunt trauma patients admitted in the emergency room in a period of 9 months. Lesions with AIS (Abbreviated Injury Scale)>3 were considered "severe".

Comparative analysis of the characteristics of traumas suffered by elderly and younger patients.

Objective: To assess the characteristics of traumas suffered by the elderly by comparison with a group of younger trauma victims.

Methods: Trauma protocols from June 10, 2008 to March 9, 2009 were evaluated including all trauma patients above 13 years of age admitted to the emergency room. Data were collected on trauma mechanism, preexisting diseases, vital signs on admission, injuries diagnosed, trauma index scores, tests and treatment.