Predictors of Morbidity, Mortality and Outcomes in Blunt Chest Trauma: A Descriptive Observational Study

Dr Meghraj Chawada, Dr Pushkaraj Birajdar, Dr Pramod Lokare, Dr Nikila Subhashini

Abstract: Blunt chest trauma (BCT) is a critical public health concern contributing significantly to global morbidity and mortality, particularly among young, economically productive individuals. The thoracic cavity houses vital cardiopulmonary structures; thus, even subtle chest wall trauma can rapidly progress to life-threatening physiological instability. This hospital-based descriptive observational study evaluated the clinical profile, diagnostic findings, management strategies, complications, and predictors of morbidity and mortality in 60 patients presenting with blunt chest trauma at a tertiary care teaching hospital over an 18-month period. The mean age of the cohort was 38.93 ± 15.87 years, with a marked male predominance (75.0%, M:F ratio 3:1). Road Traffic Accidents (RTAs) were the primary mode of injury (58.3%), followed by falls from height (16.7%). Chest pain (88.3%) and breathlessness (50.0%) were the dominant complaints. Associated extra-thoracic injuries were present in 50.0% of patients, led by head injuries (30.0%) and abdominal injuries (21.7%). Rib fractures occurred in 55.0% of cases (45.0% had multiple fractures). Conservative management was effective in 78.3% of patients. Intercostal Drainage (ICD) tube insertion was required in 20.0%, Intensive Care Unit (ICU) admission in 28.3%, surgical intervention in 11.7%, and mechanical ventilation in 5.0%. Admission hypoxia (SpO2 7 days). Respiratory distress was the primary complication (31.7%). Zero inpatient mortality was recorded (0.0%), and 91.7% of patients were discharged stable. Hypoxia at presentation and CT-proven pulmonary contusion are reliable predictors of high morbidity and ICU resource requirements in BCT. Multimodal conservative therapy- anchored by early analgesia, oxygenation, and chest physiotherapy-yields excellent survival outcomes in the majority of patients.

Keywords: Blunt Chest Trauma, Pulmonary Contusion, Morbidity Predictors, Road Traffic Accidents

How to Cite?: Dr Meghraj Chawada, Dr Pushkaraj Birajdar, Dr Pramod Lokare, Dr Nikila Subhashini, "Predictors of Morbidity, Mortality and Outcomes in Blunt Chest Trauma: A Descriptive Observational Study", Volume 15 Issue 8, August 2026, International Journal of Science and Research (IJSR), Pages: 269-272, https://www.ijsr.net/getabstract.php?paperid=SR26727184111, DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.21275/SR26727184111

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