Retrospective Analysis of 221 Patients with Thoracic Trauma: A Single-Center Experience

Background: Thoracic trauma accounts for one-quarter of all trauma cases. When pulmonary and cardiovascular structures are affected, high mortality rates are observed. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of patients who sustained thoracic trauma. In addition, the study sought to evaluate the impact of injury types and treatment processes on patient outcomes. Methods: This retrospective study was conducted at a single center in Turkey between December 2022 and December 2024. Adult patients (≥18 years) with thoracic trauma were included. Demographic features, injury types, treatment modalities, and outcomes were analyzed. Results: A total of 221 patients with thoracic trauma were evaluated. The most common mechanisms of trauma were falls (n=94, 42.5%) and motor vehicle accidents (n=94, 42.5%). Rib fractures were the most frequently detected injury (n=154, 53.7%), and conservative treatment was the most commonly preferred approach (n=189, 85.5%). Patients with rib fractures had significantly longer the intensive care unit (ICU) and overall hospital stay durations (Z=-2.435, p=0.015 and Z=-2.979, p=0.003). The number of rib fractures was significantly higher in patients who underwent tube thoracostomy compared to those managed conservatively (t=-44.931, p=0.011). Additionally, both ICU and hospital stay duration were shorter in these patients (Z=-2.531, p=0.011; Z=-7.234, p