Possible detrimental effects of postponed intubation during interhospital transfer of severely brain injured patients: retrospective analysis of the Traumaregister DGU®

Puntos clave

• This analysis aims to evaluate the potential drawbacks of delaying intubation in patients with severe traumatic brain injury during interhospital transfers.
• Analyzed patients with serious blunt head injuries (AIS Head ≥3) who were transferred to definitive care.
• Focused on patients with Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores of 4–9 for detailed examination.
• Utilized multivariate regression analysis to identify factors affecting mortality and other outcomes.
• No statistically significant differences in mortality or organ failure between intubated and spontaneously breathing patients upon admission.
• Patients requiring immediate intubation in the emergency room showed higher rates of multiple organ failure and sepsis compared to those intubated prior to transfer.
• Statistically significant differences were found in mortality rates between groups needing ER intubation and those already intubated.