Objective: Firearm-related injuries remain a significant cause of trauma morbidity and mortality worldwide. This study aimed to evaluate the epidemiological and clinical characteristics of firearm injuries and identify predictors of in-hospital mortality. Materials and Methods: This retrospective cohort study included patients presenting with firearm injuries to Marmara University Pendik Training and Research Hospital during the period spanning from January 1 to December 31, 2024. Data on demographics, injury mechanism, anatomical injury sites, trauma scores, vital signs, laboratory findings, interventions, and outcomes were collected. Univariate logistic regression analyses were performed to identify factors associated with mortality, along with their odds ratios (OR). Results: A total of 119 patients were included (mean age: 33.3 ± 12.8 years; 89.1% male). The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 9.2%. Non-survivors were more likely to be female and have suicide-related injuries. Univariate analysis revealed that female gender (OR: 6.286), suicide intent (OR: 40.125), lower Glasgow Coma Scale (OR: 0.490), lower Revised Trauma Score (OR: 0.113), and higher Injury Severity Score (OR: 1.323) were independent predictors of mortality. Head/neck and chest injuries were associated with higher mortality and increased need for surgery and blood transfusion. Conclusions: Early assessment of vital signs, trauma scores, and anatomical injury sites can provide valuable prognostic information in firearm-related trauma. Beyond mortality, the high rates of hospitalization and surgical intervention highlight the broader burden of firearm injuries on healthcare systems.
Kudu et al. (2025) studied this question.