Long term outcomes in older trauma patients admitted to the ICU: A prospective study.

Abstract

BACKGROUND\nPrior studies have shown an increase in mortality in elderly patients when compared to their younger cohort.\n\n\nMETHODS\nLevel 1 trauma patients ≥50 years old were recruited upon admission to the ICU and prospectively followed. After an initial survey, inpatient data were collected and phone surveys were completed at 3 and 6 months.\n\n\nRESULTS\n100 patients were included. There was an 18% inpatient mortality. At 6 months, the mortality rate was 24%; 73% of surviving patients reported good health. 6-month nonsurvivors had a higher percentage requiring preinjury assistance with ambulation.\n\n\nCONCLUSIONS\nSevere trauma in patients ≥50 years of age carries a significant rate of mortality however survivors have good outcomes. Need for assistance with ambulation prior to injury is associated with 6 month mortality and could be used as a screening tool for interventions.