Evaluation of Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT ratio and Tp-e/QTc ratio in blunt chest trauma patients.

Background: After blunt chest trauma, life-threatening arrhythmias may occur in the early post-injury period, as well as a few days after the injury. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of arrhythmias in blunt chest trauma patients using Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT ratio and Tp-e/QTc ratio.

Methods: In this study, patients who applied to the emergency department due to blunt chest trauma were examined prospectively. The 12-lead ECG was performed to both blunt chest trauma and control group. ECG measurements of QT and Tp-e intervals were performed from both groups.

Results: A total of 81 participants; 41 blunt chest trauma patients and 40 healthy volunteers were included in this study. Tpe, Tpe/QT, Tpe/QTc values were statistically significant in the trauma group compared to the control group (p<0.001). Although Tpe/QTc, max QT and min QT were statistically significant (p<0.05) in patients with a rib fracture, no difference was detected concerning Tpe, Tpe/QT compared to no-rib fracture group (p>0.05).

Conclusion: Tp-e interval, Tp-e/QT ratio and Tp-e/QTc ratio in ECG predict the arrhythmias that may occur in blunt cardiac trauma, especially in blunt chest trauma patients.