Implications of non-accidental trauma on resource utilization and outcomes

Purpose: The purpose was to compare the resource utilization and outcomes between patients with suspected (SUSP) and confirmed (CONF) non-accidental trauma (NAT). Methods: The institutional trauma registry was reviewed for patients aged 0–18 years presenting from 2007 to 2012 with a diagnosis of suspicion for NAT. Patients with suspected and confirmed NAT were compared. Results: There were 281 patients included. CONF presented with a higher heart rate (142 ± 27 vs 128 ± 23 bpm, p < 0.01), lower systolic blood pressure (100 ± 18 vs 105 ± 16 mm Hg, p = 0.03), and higher Injury Severity Score (15 ± 11 vs 9 ± 5, p < 0.01). SUSP received fewer consultations (1.6 ± 0.7 vs 2.4 ± 1.1, 95% CI − 0.58 to − 0.09, p < 0.01) and had a shorter length of stay (1.6 ± 1.3 vs 7.8 ± 9.8 days, 95% CI − 4.58 to − 0.72, p < 0.01). SUSP were more often discharged home (OR 94.22, 95% CI: 21.26–417.476, p < 0.01). CONF had a higher mortality rate (8.2 vs 0%, p < 0.01). Conclusions: Patients with confirmed NAT present with more severe injuries and require more hospital resources compared to patients in whom NAT is suspected and ruled out.