Coagulation Profiles and Leukocytosis as Predictors of Prolonged Intensive Care Unit Stay in Polytrauma Patients

Introduction: Polytrauma is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, often complicated by multiple organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS). Early identification of risk factors for prolonged intensive care unit (ICU) stay is crucial. This study assessed organ dysfunction in polytrauma patients and identified predictors of prolonged ICU stays. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted on 101 polytrauma patients admitted to the ICU between March 2023 and April 2025. Clinical data, including laboratory markers for liver, kidney, cardiac, and coagulation functions, were analyzed. Patients were stratified by ICU length of stay (<7 vs. ≥7 days), and logistic regression was used to identify risk factors. Results: Organ dysfunction was common in polytrauma patients, affecting the heart (100%), coagulation system (99.01%), liver (97.92%), and kidneys (54.76%). Compared with the ICU ≥7 days group, the ICU <7 days group had significantly prolonged activated partial thromboplastin time (30.3 ± 6.8 vs. 26.2 ± 3.8, P <0.001), higher international normalized ratio (1.2 ± 0.3 vs. 1.1 ± 0.1, P = 0.02), and longer Prothrombin Time (14.6 ± 3.0 vs. 13.4 ± 1.6, P = 0.02), indicating greater coagulation dysfunction. Conversely, the ICU ≥7 days group had higher fibrinogen, degradation products levels (90.8 ± 95.1 vs. 46.6 ± 86.9, P = 0.04) and white blood cell counts (16.0 ± 7.1 vs. 12.1 ± 4.9, P <0.05), suggesting increased risks of infection or thrombotic complications. Conclusion: Coagulation disturbances and leukocytosis are key predictors of extended ICU stays in polytrauma patients, highlighting their prognostic value. Early monitoring and intervention targeting these factors may improve outcomes.