Optimal Management of the Geriatric Trauma Patient

AbstractPurpose of ReviewAs our population continues to age, the proportion of geriatric patients continues to rapidly increase. As a result, age-specific recommendations in the setting of trauma have undergone considerable discussion. This review aims to identify strategies for optimal management of geriatric trauma patients. Specifically, it will focus on updated triage criteria and system-level enhancements to improve the management of geriatric trauma patients.Recent FindingsThe optimal care for geriatric trauma patients is centered around treating acute injuries while minimizing the impact of comorbidities. Recent research has focused on early identification of high-risk patients through adjustments to triage criteria that reflect common changes in geriatric physiology while also emphasizing frailty over age. Additionally, recent changes to common medications, such as anticoagulant and anti-platelet therapy, have required special consideration for management of these patients secondary to the increased risk of poor outcomes. Finally, recent evidence has strongly supported the creation of multi-disciplinary teams that focus on the care of geriatric trauma patients. These changes have been shown to improve mortality and decrease in-hospital adverse events.SummaryThe management of geriatric trauma patients is a complex endeavor that requires a concerted effort from triage to discharge. This review provides a broad overview of issues affecting geriatric trauma and delves int...
Source: Current Surgery Reports - Category: Surgery Source Type: research