Pub Date : 2025-03-19DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02828-4
Inger B Schipper, Hans-Peter Simmen, Roman Pfeifer
Trauma systems are vital components of healthcare infrastructure, addressing the significant burden of severe injuries across Europe. Effective trauma systems improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality by providing timely, specialised care. However, significant disparities remain between countries, with only a few well-structured and maintained systems currently operating in Europe.Developing trauma systems requires collaboration among healthcare providers, emergency services, and government agencies. Standardised protocols for triage, transport, and treatment are essential, supported by robust infrastructure, public education, and injury prevention initiatives.Trauma systems comprise four core components:• Injury Prevention.• Pre-Hospital Care.• Facility Care.• Post-Hospital Care/Rehabilitation.These components rely on key elements such as leadership, professional resources, education, quality improvement, and funding. Political commitment, geographical considerations, and the efforts of dedicated clinicians are crucial for ensuring system success.Trauma systems across Europe are evolving under diverse healthcare structures. Over recent decades, dedicated clinicians, often with support from national medical societies, have initiated and sustained these systems. Typically, trauma hospitals, or trauma centres (TCs), are categorised into two or three levels, with the highest being 'Level I TC' or 'Major TC,' capable of managing the most complex cases. This chapter outlines general requirements for these categories, leaving individual nations to tailor standards to their healthcare systems.
{"title":"Trauma systems in Europe / hospital categories.","authors":"Inger B Schipper, Hans-Peter Simmen, Roman Pfeifer","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02828-4","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02828-4","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Trauma systems are vital components of healthcare infrastructure, addressing the significant burden of severe injuries across Europe. Effective trauma systems improve patient outcomes and reduce mortality by providing timely, specialised care. However, significant disparities remain between countries, with only a few well-structured and maintained systems currently operating in Europe.Developing trauma systems requires collaboration among healthcare providers, emergency services, and government agencies. Standardised protocols for triage, transport, and treatment are essential, supported by robust infrastructure, public education, and injury prevention initiatives.Trauma systems comprise four core components:• Injury Prevention.• Pre-Hospital Care.• Facility Care.• Post-Hospital Care/Rehabilitation.These components rely on key elements such as leadership, professional resources, education, quality improvement, and funding. Political commitment, geographical considerations, and the efforts of dedicated clinicians are crucial for ensuring system success.Trauma systems across Europe are evolving under diverse healthcare structures. Over recent decades, dedicated clinicians, often with support from national medical societies, have initiated and sustained these systems. Typically, trauma hospitals, or trauma centres (TCs), are categorised into two or three levels, with the highest being 'Level I TC' or 'Major TC,' capable of managing the most complex cases. This chapter outlines general requirements for these categories, leaving individual nations to tailor standards to their healthcare systems.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"143"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-19","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143662758","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
The reconstruction of large bone defects remains challenging for orthopedic surgeons. Autologous bone grafts (ABGs) are the gold standard treatment for limited size defects, but larger bone defects (> 5 cm) require the use of more sophisticated techniques, such as the Masquelet technique. Over the last three decades, the Masquelet or induced membrane technique (IMT) has become increasingly popular as it does not require high-precision microsurgery skills and the time taken to achieve bone consolidation is independent of the length of the defect. IMT is a two-stage procedure. In the first stage, a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement spacer is implanted into the bone lesion and a physiological immune reaction initiates the formation of a fibrotic induced membrane (IM) with both angiogenic and osteogenic properties. The second stage, performed several weeks later, involves removal of the spacer followed by the implantation of a standard ABG in the preserved IM cavity for subsequent bone repair. In this extensive review, we explain how the success of this surgical procedure can be attributed to the synergy of four key components: the inducer (the PMMA cement), the recipient (the IM), the effector (the bone graft) and the modulator (the mechanical environment). Conversely, we then explain how each key component can contribute to the failure of such treatment. Finally, we discuss existing or emerging innovative and biotechnology-oriented strategies for optimizing surgical outcome with respect to the four components of IMT described above.
{"title":"Engineering the bone reconstruction surgery: the case of the masquelet-induced membrane technique.","authors":"Marjorie Durand, Laurent Mathieu, Julien Venant, Alain-Charles Masquelet, Jean-Marc Collombet","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02815-9","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02815-9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The reconstruction of large bone defects remains challenging for orthopedic surgeons. Autologous bone grafts (ABGs) are the gold standard treatment for limited size defects, but larger bone defects (> 5 cm) require the use of more sophisticated techniques, such as the Masquelet technique. Over the last three decades, the Masquelet or induced membrane technique (IMT) has become increasingly popular as it does not require high-precision microsurgery skills and the time taken to achieve bone consolidation is independent of the length of the defect. IMT is a two-stage procedure. In the first stage, a polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA) cement spacer is implanted into the bone lesion and a physiological immune reaction initiates the formation of a fibrotic induced membrane (IM) with both angiogenic and osteogenic properties. The second stage, performed several weeks later, involves removal of the spacer followed by the implantation of a standard ABG in the preserved IM cavity for subsequent bone repair. In this extensive review, we explain how the success of this surgical procedure can be attributed to the synergy of four key components: the inducer (the PMMA cement), the recipient (the IM), the effector (the bone graft) and the modulator (the mechanical environment). Conversely, we then explain how each key component can contribute to the failure of such treatment. Finally, we discuss existing or emerging innovative and biotechnology-oriented strategies for optimizing surgical outcome with respect to the four components of IMT described above.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"138"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656529","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02819-5
Hossam Abdou, Rebecca Treffalls, Grzegorz Jodlowski, Noha Elansary, Thomas Ptak, Patrick F Walker, Jonathan J Morrison
Purpose: In patients with hemorrhagic shock and an intracranial space occupying lesion (SOL), brain perfusion is severely compromised due to raised intracranial pressure (rICP), significantly worsening outcomes. This study aims to develop a swine model of a SOL with rICP and shock and characterize the effect on brain perfusion.
Methods: Ten male swine were divided into two groups- normal ICP (nICP) and rICP. rICP animals had an intracranial Fogarty balloon catheter inserted, which was infused with saline to simulate a SOL. Animals underwent hemorrhage to systolic blood pressures (SBP) of 60, 40, and 20mmHg. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral blood volume (CBV) were measured using CT perfusion.
Results: The CBF/Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and CBV/MAP curves were modeled using non-linear regression, with both groups demonstrating a sigmoid relation. In both the CBF/MAP and CBV/MAP curves, animals with rICP had loss of autoregulation at a higher MAP compared to nICP. The curves were an excellent fit for CBF (nICP R2 = 0.95; rICP R2 = 0.77) and CBV (nICP R2 = 0.96; rICP R2 = 0.78).
Conclusions: This study aids in quantifying the compounding insult of raised ICP and hemorrhage with regard to brain perfusion. Raised ICP results in autoregulatory failure at a higher MAP compared to animals with nICP. These results can help inform future studies that should be aimed at evaluating novel interventions for this complex clinical scenario.
{"title":"The influence of hemorrhagic shock on brain perfusion in a swine model of raised intracranial pressure.","authors":"Hossam Abdou, Rebecca Treffalls, Grzegorz Jodlowski, Noha Elansary, Thomas Ptak, Patrick F Walker, Jonathan J Morrison","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02819-5","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02819-5","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>In patients with hemorrhagic shock and an intracranial space occupying lesion (SOL), brain perfusion is severely compromised due to raised intracranial pressure (rICP), significantly worsening outcomes. This study aims to develop a swine model of a SOL with rICP and shock and characterize the effect on brain perfusion.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Ten male swine were divided into two groups- normal ICP (nICP) and rICP. rICP animals had an intracranial Fogarty balloon catheter inserted, which was infused with saline to simulate a SOL. Animals underwent hemorrhage to systolic blood pressures (SBP) of 60, 40, and 20mmHg. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and cerebral blood volume (CBV) were measured using CT perfusion.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The CBF/Mean arterial pressure (MAP) and CBV/MAP curves were modeled using non-linear regression, with both groups demonstrating a sigmoid relation. In both the CBF/MAP and CBV/MAP curves, animals with rICP had loss of autoregulation at a higher MAP compared to nICP. The curves were an excellent fit for CBF (nICP R<sup>2</sup> = 0.95; rICP R<sup>2</sup> = 0.77) and CBV (nICP R<sup>2</sup> = 0.96; rICP R<sup>2</sup> = 0.78).</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>This study aids in quantifying the compounding insult of raised ICP and hemorrhage with regard to brain perfusion. Raised ICP results in autoregulatory failure at a higher MAP compared to animals with nICP. These results can help inform future studies that should be aimed at evaluating novel interventions for this complex clinical scenario.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"137"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656573","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02823-9
Roman Pfeifer, Frank Hildebrand, Sascha Halvachizadeh
The International Health Facility Guidelines 2023 provide critical recommendations for operating room (OR) design and management, addressing layout, equipment specifications, and safety protocols. By adhering to these guidelines, healthcare facilities can ensure optimal conditions for surgical procedures, minimise risks to patients and staff, and enhance overall efficiency. These recommendations serve as a vital resource for healthcare administrators, architects, and medical personnel, facilitating high-quality surgical care and improved outcomes for trauma patients.
{"title":"Operating room (OR) requirements.","authors":"Roman Pfeifer, Frank Hildebrand, Sascha Halvachizadeh","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02823-9","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02823-9","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>The International Health Facility Guidelines 2023 provide critical recommendations for operating room (OR) design and management, addressing layout, equipment specifications, and safety protocols. By adhering to these guidelines, healthcare facilities can ensure optimal conditions for surgical procedures, minimise risks to patients and staff, and enhance overall efficiency. These recommendations serve as a vital resource for healthcare administrators, architects, and medical personnel, facilitating high-quality surgical care and improved outcomes for trauma patients.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"135"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656531","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02820-y
Falco Hietbrink, Frank Hildebrand, Klemens Horst
Effective shock (or trauma) room management requires thorough preparation, staff competence, dedicated infrastructure and organised protocols. Shock rooms must be sufficiently equipped according to the hospital's designated level of care. This chapter outlines essential aspects, including equipment and facilities, staff qualifications and composition, and communication practices. Key areas including initial assessment, diagnostic procedures, emergency interventions, and future aspects in the care of severely injured patients are addressed, along with emerging innovations in trauma care.
{"title":"Trauma room requirements.","authors":"Falco Hietbrink, Frank Hildebrand, Klemens Horst","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02820-y","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02820-y","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>Effective shock (or trauma) room management requires thorough preparation, staff competence, dedicated infrastructure and organised protocols. Shock rooms must be sufficiently equipped according to the hospital's designated level of care. This chapter outlines essential aspects, including equipment and facilities, staff qualifications and composition, and communication practices. Key areas including initial assessment, diagnostic procedures, emergency interventions, and future aspects in the care of severely injured patients are addressed, along with emerging innovations in trauma care.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"139"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656589","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02814-w
Christian Peez, Ivan Zderic, R Geoff Richards, Ludmil Drenchev, Hristo K Skulev, Boyko Gueorguiev, Christoph Kittl, Michael J Raschke, Elmar Herbst
Purpose: Current literature lacks recommendations regarding proper fixation of tibial tubercle avulsion fractures involving the proximal tibial epiphysis (Ogden fractures). Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare isolated apophyseal screw fixation and additional fixation techniques in Ogden fractures.
Methods: Two different types of apoepiphyseal tibial tubercle avulsion fractures were created in 40 proximal tibiae according to the modified Ogden classification: (1) Ogden type IIIA and (2) Ogden type IV. The fractures were fixed with either isolated apophyseal screws or additionally with a medial plate or epiphyseal screws. All specimens were biomechanically tested under progressively increasing cyclic loading until failure, while capturing the interfragmentary movements with motion tracking.
Results: Augmentation of apophyseal screw osteosynthesis by a medial plate in Ogden IV fractures or epiphyseal screws in Ogden IIIA fractures exhibited significantly higher cycles to failure and failure loads (P< 0.05), and significantly less axial displacement (P < 0.05) compared to isolated apophyseal screw fixation. Fixation of Ogden type IIIA fractures resulted in significantly less axial displacements and higher construct stiffness, cycles to failure and failure loads compared to Ogden type IV fracture (P < 0.001). Fracture gap opening did not differ significantly between the fixation techniques.
Conclusions: Augmented apophyseal screw fixation of apoepiphyseal tibial tubercle avulsion fractures provides greater biomechanical stability than isolated apophyseal screw fixation. Regardless of fixation technique, Ogden type IV fractures are more unstable than Ogden type IIIA fractures, so an individualized treatment strategy based on fracture morphology is crucial. In case of an Ogden type IIIA or Ogden type IV fracture, surgeons should consider adding epiphyseal screws or a medial plate osteosynthesis to apophyseal screw fixation to best neutralize forces of the extensor mechanism, as long as the often compromised soft tissue envelope can tolerate greater surgical invasiveness.
{"title":"Combined apophyseal and epiphyseal fixation of Ogden type IIIA/IV tibial tubercle avulsion fractures provides favorable stability compared to isolated apophyseal screw fixation - a biomechanical study.","authors":"Christian Peez, Ivan Zderic, R Geoff Richards, Ludmil Drenchev, Hristo K Skulev, Boyko Gueorguiev, Christoph Kittl, Michael J Raschke, Elmar Herbst","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02814-w","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02814-w","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Current literature lacks recommendations regarding proper fixation of tibial tubercle avulsion fractures involving the proximal tibial epiphysis (Ogden fractures). Therefore, the aim of this study was to compare isolated apophyseal screw fixation and additional fixation techniques in Ogden fractures.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>Two different types of apoepiphyseal tibial tubercle avulsion fractures were created in 40 proximal tibiae according to the modified Ogden classification: (1) Ogden type IIIA and (2) Ogden type IV. The fractures were fixed with either isolated apophyseal screws or additionally with a medial plate or epiphyseal screws. All specimens were biomechanically tested under progressively increasing cyclic loading until failure, while capturing the interfragmentary movements with motion tracking.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Augmentation of apophyseal screw osteosynthesis by a medial plate in Ogden IV fractures or epiphyseal screws in Ogden IIIA fractures exhibited significantly higher cycles to failure and failure loads (P< 0.05), and significantly less axial displacement (P < 0.05) compared to isolated apophyseal screw fixation. Fixation of Ogden type IIIA fractures resulted in significantly less axial displacements and higher construct stiffness, cycles to failure and failure loads compared to Ogden type IV fracture (P < 0.001). Fracture gap opening did not differ significantly between the fixation techniques.</p><p><strong>Conclusions: </strong>Augmented apophyseal screw fixation of apoepiphyseal tibial tubercle avulsion fractures provides greater biomechanical stability than isolated apophyseal screw fixation. Regardless of fixation technique, Ogden type IV fractures are more unstable than Ogden type IIIA fractures, so an individualized treatment strategy based on fracture morphology is crucial. In case of an Ogden type IIIA or Ogden type IV fracture, surgeons should consider adding epiphyseal screws or a medial plate osteosynthesis to apophyseal screw fixation to best neutralize forces of the extensor mechanism, as long as the often compromised soft tissue envelope can tolerate greater surgical invasiveness.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"136"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656526","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02817-7
Christian Alexander Kühne, Alina Weise, Nadja Könsgen, Uwe Schweigkofler, Arnold Kaltwasser, Sabrina Pelz, Tobias Becker, Christopher Spering, Frithjof Wagner, Dan Bieler
Purpose: Our aim was to update the evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations on criteria for trauma team activation (TTA) and staffing requirements for the management of patients with (suspected) multiple and/or severe injuries in the resuscitation room on the basis of available evidence. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.
Methods: MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched to August 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional studies and comparative registry studies were included if they compared criteria for identifying severely injured patients requiring trauma team activation or different staffing components (e.g. team composition, training) for the management of patients with (suspected) multiple and/or severe injuries in the resuscitation room. We considered patient relevant outcomes such as mortality as well as prognostic accuracy outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.
Results: Twenty-one new studies were identified. Potential trauma team activation criteria included vital signs (e.g. systolic blood pressure), type and extent of injury (e.g. central gunshot wound), mechanism of injury (e.g. traffic accident), interventions (e.g. chest tube), specific criteria for geriatric patients, and combined criteria (N = 20). Staffing requirements for the resuscitation room included specific training for orthopaedic trainees (N = 1). Two recommendations were modified, and six additional recommendations were developed. All but two recommendations achieved strong consensus.
Conclusion: The key recommendations address the following topics: inter-professional trauma teams in the resuscitation room; trauma team activation for geriatric patients; and trauma team activation criteria based on physiological, anatomical, interventional, and mechanism of injury parameters.
{"title":"Criteria for trauma team activation and staffing requirements for the management of patients with (suspected) multiple and/or severe injuries in the resuscitation room- a systematic review and clinical practice guideline update.","authors":"Christian Alexander Kühne, Alina Weise, Nadja Könsgen, Uwe Schweigkofler, Arnold Kaltwasser, Sabrina Pelz, Tobias Becker, Christopher Spering, Frithjof Wagner, Dan Bieler","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02817-7","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02817-7","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Our aim was to update the evidence-based and consensus-based recommendations on criteria for trauma team activation (TTA) and staffing requirements for the management of patients with (suspected) multiple and/or severe injuries in the resuscitation room on the basis of available evidence. This guideline topic is part of the 2022 update of the German Guideline on the Treatment of Patients with Multiple and/or Severe Injuries.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>MEDLINE and Embase were systematically searched to August 2021. Further literature reports were obtained from clinical experts. Randomised controlled trials, prospective cohort studies, cross-sectional studies and comparative registry studies were included if they compared criteria for identifying severely injured patients requiring trauma team activation or different staffing components (e.g. team composition, training) for the management of patients with (suspected) multiple and/or severe injuries in the resuscitation room. We considered patient relevant outcomes such as mortality as well as prognostic accuracy outcomes. Risk of bias was assessed using NICE 2012 checklists. The evidence was synthesised narratively, and expert consensus was used to develop recommendations and determine their strength.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>Twenty-one new studies were identified. Potential trauma team activation criteria included vital signs (e.g. systolic blood pressure), type and extent of injury (e.g. central gunshot wound), mechanism of injury (e.g. traffic accident), interventions (e.g. chest tube), specific criteria for geriatric patients, and combined criteria (N = 20). Staffing requirements for the resuscitation room included specific training for orthopaedic trainees (N = 1). Two recommendations were modified, and six additional recommendations were developed. All but two recommendations achieved strong consensus.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>The key recommendations address the following topics: inter-professional trauma teams in the resuscitation room; trauma team activation for geriatric patients; and trauma team activation criteria based on physiological, anatomical, interventional, and mechanism of injury parameters.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"142"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656527","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02816-8
Murad S Alahmad, Ayman El-Menyar, Husham Abdelrahman, Meiad A Abdelrahman, Fahad Aurif, Nissar Shaikh, Hassan Al-Thani
Background: Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening infection characterized by rapid tissue destruction and high mortality. The role of timely diagnosis and surgical intervention in improving patient outcomes remains debated. This study investigates the impact of "time to diagnosis" (TTD) and "time to surgical treatment" (TTS) on the outcomes of NF patients, with a specific focus on the first six hours of critical diagnosis.
Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted for patients hospitalized with NF between June 2016 and June 2023. Demographic data, comorbidities, clinical features, treatment, and outcomes were analyzed. The study stratified patients based on TTD (early (≤ 6 h) vs. delayed (> 6 h) and TTS (≤ 6 vs. > 6 h). Outcomes included severity scores, intensive care unit admission, length of stay (LOS), and mortality.
Results: One hundred and twenty-one patients were diagnosed with NF with a mortality rate of 10%. Early diagnosis (≤ 6 h) was associated with lower mortality (5.7% vs. 13.2%) and shorter LOS (17 vs. 27 days) compared to delayed diagnosis. Early diagnosis was associated with a lower Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score compared to delayed diagnosis (p = 0.02). A combined analysis of TTD and TTS revealed that the group with early diagnosis and early treatment (TTD and TTS were ≤ 6 h) had a 3% mortality rate, and 7% of them had a SOFA score > 9. In contrast, delayed diagnosis (TTD > 6 h) was significantly associated with increased mortality, regardless of the TTS.
Conclusion: Timely diagnosis within 6 h is crucial for improving outcomes in NF. While early surgical intervention is vital, our findings suggest that the time to diagnosis and subsequent resuscitation efforts may significantly impact survival. This study highlights the importance of optimizing early recognition and diagnosis in the emergency room to reduce delays and improve patient prognosis in NF. Further multicenter studies are needed to validate these findings and refine clinical protocols.
{"title":"Time to diagnose and time to surgery in patients presenting with necrotizing fasciitis: a retrospective analysis.","authors":"Murad S Alahmad, Ayman El-Menyar, Husham Abdelrahman, Meiad A Abdelrahman, Fahad Aurif, Nissar Shaikh, Hassan Al-Thani","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02816-8","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02816-8","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Background: </strong>Necrotizing Fasciitis (NF) is a life-threatening infection characterized by rapid tissue destruction and high mortality. The role of timely diagnosis and surgical intervention in improving patient outcomes remains debated. This study investigates the impact of \"time to diagnosis\" (TTD) and \"time to surgical treatment\" (TTS) on the outcomes of NF patients, with a specific focus on the first six hours of critical diagnosis.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>A retrospective analysis was conducted for patients hospitalized with NF between June 2016 and June 2023. Demographic data, comorbidities, clinical features, treatment, and outcomes were analyzed. The study stratified patients based on TTD (early (≤ 6 h) vs. delayed (> 6 h) and TTS (≤ 6 vs. > 6 h). Outcomes included severity scores, intensive care unit admission, length of stay (LOS), and mortality.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>One hundred and twenty-one patients were diagnosed with NF with a mortality rate of 10%. Early diagnosis (≤ 6 h) was associated with lower mortality (5.7% vs. 13.2%) and shorter LOS (17 vs. 27 days) compared to delayed diagnosis. Early diagnosis was associated with a lower Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score compared to delayed diagnosis (p = 0.02). A combined analysis of TTD and TTS revealed that the group with early diagnosis and early treatment (TTD and TTS were ≤ 6 h) had a 3% mortality rate, and 7% of them had a SOFA score > 9. In contrast, delayed diagnosis (TTD > 6 h) was significantly associated with increased mortality, regardless of the TTS.</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Timely diagnosis within 6 h is crucial for improving outcomes in NF. While early surgical intervention is vital, our findings suggest that the time to diagnosis and subsequent resuscitation efforts may significantly impact survival. This study highlights the importance of optimizing early recognition and diagnosis in the emergency room to reduce delays and improve patient prognosis in NF. Further multicenter studies are needed to validate these findings and refine clinical protocols.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"140"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656587","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-18DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02804-y
Ian J B Stephens, Emily Kelly, Fernando Ferreira, Marja A Boermeester, Michael E Sugrue
Purpose: Incisional hernias (IH) occur after 20-30% of laparotomies. Modern closure techniques including small bite closure and prophylactic mesh augmentation (PMA) demonstrate significant reduction in IH rates. European and American Hernia Society guidelines suggest use of small bite closure and consideration of PMA at elective laparotomy closure but do not make a recommendation for emergency surgery. International surveys demonstrate poor uptake of small bite closure and PMA. This survey aims to assess the uptake of these techniques specifically in emergency abdominal surgery.
Methods: An online, cross-sectional survey was circulated through emergency general surgery (EGS) and abdominal closure networks between June and August 2024. This interrogated surgeons' technical approach to all elements of emergency laparotomy closure including use of wound bundles, small bite, suture-to-wound ratio, suture choice, and PMA.
Results: The survey was completed by 234 general surgeons from 32 countries. Wound bundle components varied between surgeons. Small bite closure was used by 85.8% during midline laparotomy closure but only 42.2% of surgeons used 5 mm wide tissue bites placed every 5 mm. Suture-to-wound ratio was rarely measured (7.7%). A looped PDS (size 0 or 1) was used preferentially (42.7%). Self-locking (15.8%) and antiseptic coated sutures (20.2%) were used infrequently. One in ten surgeons used PMA and most often placed the mesh in the retrorectus space (39.6%).
Conclusion: Uptake of new techniques in emergency laparotomy has been variable and with limited penetrance amongst emergency general surgeons. Many surgeons are using adapted versions of the original descriptions of these approaches.
{"title":"Variable use of modern abdominal wall closure techniques at emergency laparotomy - an international, cross-sectional survey of surgical practice.","authors":"Ian J B Stephens, Emily Kelly, Fernando Ferreira, Marja A Boermeester, Michael E Sugrue","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02804-y","DOIUrl":"https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-025-02804-y","url":null,"abstract":"<p><strong>Purpose: </strong>Incisional hernias (IH) occur after 20-30% of laparotomies. Modern closure techniques including small bite closure and prophylactic mesh augmentation (PMA) demonstrate significant reduction in IH rates. European and American Hernia Society guidelines suggest use of small bite closure and consideration of PMA at elective laparotomy closure but do not make a recommendation for emergency surgery. International surveys demonstrate poor uptake of small bite closure and PMA. This survey aims to assess the uptake of these techniques specifically in emergency abdominal surgery.</p><p><strong>Methods: </strong>An online, cross-sectional survey was circulated through emergency general surgery (EGS) and abdominal closure networks between June and August 2024. This interrogated surgeons' technical approach to all elements of emergency laparotomy closure including use of wound bundles, small bite, suture-to-wound ratio, suture choice, and PMA.</p><p><strong>Results: </strong>The survey was completed by 234 general surgeons from 32 countries. Wound bundle components varied between surgeons. Small bite closure was used by 85.8% during midline laparotomy closure but only 42.2% of surgeons used 5 mm wide tissue bites placed every 5 mm. Suture-to-wound ratio was rarely measured (7.7%). A looped PDS (size 0 or 1) was used preferentially (42.7%). Self-locking (15.8%) and antiseptic coated sutures (20.2%) were used infrequently. One in ten surgeons used PMA and most often placed the mesh in the retrorectus space (39.6%).</p><p><strong>Conclusion: </strong>Uptake of new techniques in emergency laparotomy has been variable and with limited penetrance amongst emergency general surgeons. Many surgeons are using adapted versions of the original descriptions of these approaches.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"141"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-18","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143656593","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}
Pub Date : 2025-03-16DOI: 10.1007/s00068-025-02821-x
Zsolt Balogh, Frank Hildebrand
This section outlines the essential requirements for managing trauma patients in ICUs across Europe. It emphasizes the need for ICU accreditation at the highest national level and highlights criteria, including staffing, equipment, training programmes, protocols, and documentation for quality control. Key requirements encompass 24/7 admission capability, trained staff, multidisciplinary rounds, specialised observation beds, organ donation programmes, and participation in trauma resuscitations and hospital disaster planning. Desirable criteria, such as education, research activities, trauma protocol development, cross-rotation training, outreach services, and combined team training are also discussed, focused on fostering collaboration between trauma and intensive care services to ensure comprehensive trauma management.
{"title":"ICU requirements.","authors":"Zsolt Balogh, Frank Hildebrand","doi":"10.1007/s00068-025-02821-x","DOIUrl":"10.1007/s00068-025-02821-x","url":null,"abstract":"<p><p>This section outlines the essential requirements for managing trauma patients in ICUs across Europe. It emphasizes the need for ICU accreditation at the highest national level and highlights criteria, including staffing, equipment, training programmes, protocols, and documentation for quality control. Key requirements encompass 24/7 admission capability, trained staff, multidisciplinary rounds, specialised observation beds, organ donation programmes, and participation in trauma resuscitations and hospital disaster planning. Desirable criteria, such as education, research activities, trauma protocol development, cross-rotation training, outreach services, and combined team training are also discussed, focused on fostering collaboration between trauma and intensive care services to ensure comprehensive trauma management.</p>","PeriodicalId":12064,"journal":{"name":"European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery","volume":"51 1","pages":"134"},"PeriodicalIF":1.9,"publicationDate":"2025-03-16","publicationTypes":"Journal Article","fieldsOfStudy":null,"isOpenAccess":false,"openAccessPdf":"https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11910429/pdf/","citationCount":null,"resultStr":null,"platform":"Semanticscholar","paperid":"143633980","PeriodicalName":null,"FirstCategoryId":null,"ListUrlMain":null,"RegionNum":3,"RegionCategory":"医学","ArticlePicture":[],"TitleCN":null,"AbstractTextCN":null,"PMCID":"OA","EPubDate":null,"PubModel":null,"JCR":null,"JCRName":null,"Score":null,"Total":0}