Title

Outcomes of trauma admission for falls: influence of race and age on inhospital and post- discharge mortality

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

10-1-2016

Abstract

Background—Racial disparities in trauma outcomes occur but disparities in fall mortality are unknown. Objectives—To determine in-hospital and one-year fall mortality among patients discharged from an urban trauma center. Methods—We conducted a retrospective analysis of fall patients in our trauma registry (1997– 2008) linked to the National Death Index to determine post-discharge mortality. Statistical analysis included chi-squared tests, multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards models. Results—There were 7,541 fall admissions. There was no clinically significant difference in inhospital mortality between blacks and whites with age stratification. One year post-discharge, Blacks younger than 65 were more likely to die of disease (HR 1.37; 95% CI 1.14–1.62). Conclusion—While rates of in-hospital mortality are similar, Blacks under the age of 65 have a higher risk of dying following discharge due to disease when stratified by age highlighting the need for continued medical follow up and prevention efforts.

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