Perils of rib fractures.

Rib fractures (RF) are noted in 4 to 12 per cent of trauma admissions. To define RF risks at a Level 1 trauma center, investigators conducted a 10-year (1995-2004) retrospective analysis of all trauma patients. Blunt chest trauma was seen in 13 per cent (1,475/11,533) of patients and RF in 808 patients (55% blunt chest trauma, 7% blunt trauma).

An appraisal of trauma in the elderly.

To review the trends of trauma in the elderly experienced at our trauma center compared with other Level I trauma centers. This was a retrospective trauma registry analysis (1996-2003) of 2783 blunt trauma in elderly (BTE) and 4568 adult (BTA) patients in a Level 1 trauma center. Falls and motor vehicular crashes were the most common mechanisms noted in 47 per cent and 31 per cent (84% and 13% in BTE, 25% and 42% in BTA).

Injuries to the colon from blast effect of penetrating extra-peritoneal thoraco-abdominal trauma.

Although rare, blast injury to the intestine can result from penetrating thoraco-abdominal extra-peritoneal gunshot (and shotgun) wounds despite the absence of injury to the diaphragm or to the peritoneum. Injuries of the spleen, small intestine and the mesentery by this mechanism have been previously reported in the world literature. This paper reports the first two cases of non-penetrating ballistic trauma to the colon.

Hydroblast intra-abdominal organ trauma.

Hydroblast injuries of the extremities are not uncommon. Hydroblast injuries involving intra-abdominal organs are more unusual. Usually there are subtle findings on the abdominal wall with severe intra-abdominal trauma and undue delay in appropriate treatment may occur, resulting in increased morbidity.