Authors

  1. Sahr, Sheryl M. MD
  2. Webb, Michael L. MD
  3. Renner, Catherine Hackett PhD
  4. Sokol, Rachael K. DO
  5. Swegle, James R. MD, FACS

Abstract

Elderly patients are highly susceptible to rib fractures after trauma. The use of a clinical pathway to determine resource allocation for patients with rib fractures has resulted in positive treatment outcomes. This retrospective study assessed the efficacy of a triage protocol involving trauma services on hospital length of stay in elderly patients with fractured ribs. Patients who had 3 or more ribs fractured experienced a statistically significant reduction in hospital length of stay after protocol implementation. We conclude that elderly patients with 3 or more rib fractures should be systematically referred to a trauma specialist.