Citation

Llompart-Pou JA, Pérez-Bárcena J, Chico-Fernández M, Sánchez-Casado M, Raurich JM. World J. Crit. Care Med. 2017; 6(2): 99-106.

Affiliation

Juan Antonio Llompart-Pou, Jon Pérez-Bárcena, Joan Maria Raurich, Servei de Medicina Intensiva, Hospital Universitari Son Espases, 07120 Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2017, Baishideng Publishing Group)

DOI

10.5492/wjccm.v6.i2.99

PMID

28529911

PMCID

PMC5415855

Abstract

Geriatric trauma constitutes an increasingly recognized problem. Aging results in a progressive decline in cellular function which leads to a loose of their capacity to respond to injury. Some medications commonly used in this population can mask or blunt the response to injury. Falls constitute the most common cause of trauma and the leading cause of trauma-related deaths in this population. Falls are complicated by the widespread use of antiplatelets and anticoagulants, especially in patients with brain injury. Under-triage is common in this population. Evaluation of frailty could be helpful to solve this issue. Appropriate triaging and early aggressive management with correction of coagulopathy can improve outcome. Limitation of care and palliative measures must be considered in cases with a clear likelihood of poor prognosis.

Language: en

Keywords

Elderly patients; Geriatric trauma; Outcome; Severe trauma; Triage