Journal of Trauma and Injury

Volume 38(1); March 2025

Editorial

The remarkable growth and international recognition of the Journal of Trauma and Injury: Gil Jae Lee; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):1-2. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2025.0058

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PDF: Summary

Review Article

Infection prevention and treatment following dog bites: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials: Yongsik Yoon, Dukho Kim, Dongwuk Lee, Hyeongyu Min, Junhyuk Choi; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):3-13. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0069

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Abstract PDF Supplementary Material: Purpose
Dog bites pose a significant global public health challenge, with outcomes that range from minor injuries to fatalities. Despite their prevalence, no consensus has been established regarding the most effective prevention and treatment strategies. This systematic review aimed to consolidate and evaluate randomized controlled trials (RCTs) examining the effectiveness of interventions in preventing and treating dog bites.
Methods
A comprehensive search was conducted across the CINAHL, Embase, MEDLINE, Web of Science, and PubMed databases for RCTs published within the last 10 years. Studies were included if they focused on interventions to prevent or treat dog bites. Primary outcomes included the infection rate and recovery time of dog bites, the effectiveness of interventions in preventing or reducing bite severity, and associated health outcomes. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration tool.
Results
Five RCTs met the eligibility criteria, with a total of 1,148 participants. These studies examined various interventions, including medical techniques (medical glue, negative pressure wound therapy, and hyperbaric oxygen therapy), wound management strategies (primary suturing versus non-suturing), and educational interventions. A meta-analysis of four studies revealed no significant difference in infection rates between the intervention and control groups (risk ratio, 0.69; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.27–1.77; I2=62%; P=0.44). However, the interventions examined in each study demonstrated shorter recovery times (mean difference, 11.25 days; 95% CI, 8.44–14.07 days; I2=99%; P<0.001).
Conclusions
Although the included studies suggest potential benefits of certain interventions in treating dog bites, particularly in reducing recovery time, the evidence regarding infection prevention remains inconclusive. The limited number of high-quality RCTs in this field highlights the need for further research to establish evidence-based guidelines for dog bite prevention and treatment.; Summary

Original Articles

Changes in the clinical features and demographics of donors after brain death, before and after the establishment of a regional trauma center: 20 years of experience at a single center in Korea: Myung Jin Jang, Sang Tae Choi, Gil Jae Lee, Doo Jin Kim, Won Suk Lee; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):14-21. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0068

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
Organ transplantation is considered the definitive treatment for end-stage organ disease. However, the scarcity of donor organs compared to the number of patients awaiting transplants is a major barrier. This study aimed to assess the impact of a regional trauma center on organ procurement and to provide a basis for future collaboration between regional trauma centers and transplant centers.
Methods
This retrospective study analyzed organ donors after brain death over a 20-year period from January 1, 2003, to December 31, 2022. It compared patients before and after the establishment of the regional trauma center, as well as trauma and nontrauma patients. The study investigated general patient characteristics and the number and types of donated organs.
Results
The average age of patients significantly increased from 37.75 years before the trauma center was established to 46.72 years after (t=–4.32, P<0.001). The organ acquisition rate significantly increased from 3.03 before to 3.47 after (t=–2.96, P=0.003). Suicide (t=6.52, P=0.011) and cardiopulmonary resuscitation cases were more common among nontrauma patients than among trauma patients (t=8.34, P=0.004). However, the organ acquisition rate was significantly higher among trauma patients than among nontrauma patients (3.53 vs. 3.21; t=2.04, P=0.004).
Conclusions
This study identified changes in the characteristics and donor organs of patients diagnosed with brain death after the establishment of a regional trauma center. Given the increase in the proportion of trauma patients and the rate of organ acquisition per capita post-establishment, efforts should be made to encourage organ donation from patients diagnosed with brain death through close collaboration between regional trauma centers and organ transplant centers.; Summary

Clinical profile, management, and outcome of pediatric neurotrauma: a multicentric observational study: Sanat Kumar Khanna, Anil Kumar, Anand Kumar Katiyar, Kundan Mishra; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):22-31. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0080

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
Pediatric neurotrauma (pNT) includes pediatric traumatic brain injury and spinal cord injury. The incidence and distribution of pNT by age and sex remain understudied, with several gaps in both epidemiological and clinical data. This study aimed to estimate the epidemiological parameters, clinical presentations, surgical interventions, and outcomes in our patient population with pNT.
Methods
A multicentric, ambispective study was conducted at five tertiary care pediatric neurosurgical centers in Northern India from January 2011 to December 2022. The study included children under 16 years of age admitted with a history of head injury. Data on demographics, radiological findings, management, and outcomes were recorded.
Results
A total of 2,250 children were admitted; 77.5% were male and 22.5% were female. The most common age group was 6 months to 2 years (37.3%). The primary mechanism of injury was fall from height (64.6%), followed by road traffic accidents (26.1%). Overall, 84.6% of children had mild head injury, 14.2% moderate, and 1.2% severe. The most common abnormality on computed tomography brain was contusion (9.2%). Surgical interventions were required in only 0.8% of children. A favorable outcome, as measured by Glasgow Outcome Scale, was achieved in 99.2% of patients, and the mortality rate was 0.1%.
Conclusions
Our findings indicate that pNT is most common in children aged 6 months to 2 years and predominantly affects boys. The most frequent cause was a fall from height, and the majority of patients sustained mild head injuries requiring only observation, which led to excellent outcomes. Surgical intervention was necessary in only a few cases, and mortality was rare. This study highlights the epidemiological pattern of pNT in our population and delineates various causes of such trauma.; Summary

Patients with intentional punch injuries in the emergency department: a retrospective cohort study: İbrahim Toker, Ömer Salt, Taner Şahin, Mükerrem Altuntaş, İrfan Gökçek, Murat Eşlik, İbrahim Tüysüz, Baycan Kuş, Muhammed İslam Özer; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):32-37. Published online March 31, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2025.0022

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Abstract PDF: Purpose
Hand and wrist injuries represent some of the most common traumatic conditions encountered in the emergency department (ED). Our study aimed to elucidate the demographic and clinical characteristics of patients sustaining intentional punch injuries.
Methods
This single-center retrospective study involved patients aged 16 years and older who presented to the ED with intentional punch injuries in 2023.
Results
A total of 405 patients were included in the study. The median patient age was 30 years (interquartile range, 22–40 years), and 363 (89.6%) were male. Among the patients, a total of 389 fractures were identified in 362 patients (89.4%). Metacarpal bone fractures were the most common, with 372 fractures (95.6%). The fifth metacarpal was the most frequently injured (67.4%), followed by the fourth (10.0%) and third (7.7%) metacarpals. Although the most common base fracture occurred in the first metacarpal, shaft fractures were most prevalent in the second, third, fourth, and fifth metacarpals. Overall, 259 patients (71.5%) had nondisplaced fractures. Additionally, 31 patients (7.7%) had previously been admitted to the ED for punching, 17 (4.2%) had prior ED visits for trauma resulting in a fracture, and 63 (15.6%) reported a history of psychiatric drug use.
Conclusions
Young men represent the majority of intentional punch injury patients. The fifth metacarpal and its shaft fractures were most commonly observed. A history of prior ED visits for punching or trauma, as well as psychiatric medication use, may serve as potential risk factors.; Summary

Case Reports

Acute irreducible anterior shoulder dislocation due to interposition of the subscapularis muscle and the lesser tuberosity: a case report: Nazim Sifi, Ahmad Madani, Mahdi Zeghdoud; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):38-43. Published online October 21, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0044

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Abstract PDF: Efforts to reduce an anterior shoulder dislocation can fail due to numerous mechanical obstructions caused by soft tissue interposition (long head of the biceps, rotator cuff muscles, labrum, musculocutaneous nerve) and/or bony elements (displaced fragment of a greater tuberosity or glenoid fracture, bone impaction such as a Hill-Sachs lesion fixed on the glenoid rim, a bony Bankart lesion). Herein, we report the case of a 35-year-old man who sustained an anterior shoulder fracture-dislocation of his left shoulder after a fall. Despite a postreduction radiological examination that appeared misleadingly reassuring, subtle signs of persistent subluxation raised concerns. A computed tomography (CT) scan revealed subscapularis muscle entrapment along with avulsion of its bony insertion from the lesser tuberosity of the humerus, and a comminuted avulsion fracture of the greater tuberosity of the humerus. The patient underwent surgery using a deltopectoral approach. This involved releasing the entrapped subscapularis muscle and fixing the two fractured fragments. The lesser tuberosity was reduced and secured with two cannulated screws, and the comminuted fragment of the greater tuberosity was reattached using transosseous sutures. At 12-month follow-up, the patient achieved a Constant-Murley score of 85 of 100, with limitation in internal rotation at L3 but no signs of instability or new dislocation episode. This case underscores the importance of confirming shoulder reduction on at least two orthogonal views and paying close attention to the patient’s feedback about sensation in their shoulder. Additionally, it highlights the utility of CT or magnetic resonance imaging scans if doubt exists about the integrity of the reduction.; Summary

Differentiation of antimicrobial toxicity and sepsis-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation in an orthopedic burn patient in India: a case report: Parampreet Singh Saini, Ankita Aggarwal, Tarunpreet Saini; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):44-50. Published online November 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0040

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Abstract PDF: Drug-induced thrombocytopenia, hemolytic anemia, and leukopenia are serious, and sometimes fatal, complications of common medications. These conditions are challenging to diagnose in patients with polytrauma injuries due to the presence of multiple potential etiologies. In such clinical scenarios, sepsis-induced disseminated intravascular coagulation is a more frequent diagnosis. The clinical manifestations of these conditions can be indistinguishable. We present the case of a 32-year-old man who sustained a left open grade 2 leg fracture and 18% to 20% second-degree superficial electrical flash burns on his right leg. Following primary management, skin testing for antibiotic sensitivity was performed, and prophylactic therapy with ceftriaxone, gentamycin, and metronidazole was initiated for the grossly contaminated wounds. On the second day of emergency admission, the patient developed hepatorenal dysfunction accompanied by severe thrombocytopenia (<30×103/mm3). The suspected antimicrobial agents were discontinued by the third day. Within 48 hours, the patient’s hepatorenal function markedly improved; however, the blood dyscrasia progressed to severe pancytopenia over the next few days. Despite worsening parameters, the patient’s vitals were maintained, and he exhibited no overt bleeding. On the fourth day, the patient developed opportunistic fungal bronchopneumonia, indicated by bilateral lower lobe infiltrates on chest x-ray and an elevated serum galactomannan level. He received supportive care, broad-spectrum antibiotics, and antifungal treatment, with a full recovery within 2 weeks. Antibiotic toxicity must be distinguished from other medical conditions to ensure appropriate management and a favorable prognosis.; Summary

Minimally invasive surgery for concomitant pericardial and diaphragmatic rupture after blunt trauma: a case report: Ranti Kenny Maila, Kenny Nyiko Mongwe, Mirza Mohamod Zahir Uddin Bhuiyan; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):51-55. Published online December 16, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0045

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Abstract PDF: Pericardial rupture with cardiac herniation is a rare injury that occurs following blunt trauma. It is even more unusual to find a pericardial tear associated with diaphragmatic injury after such trauma. Diagnosing this condition through radiologic imaging is challenging. A 51-year-old man was admitted to the emergency department after a wall collapsed on him. He reported overall body discomfort, breathlessness, chest pain, and abdominal discomfort. A plain x-ray revealed haziness in the left thoracic cavity and elevation of the left hemidiaphragm with collapse of the left lung. Additionally, a gastric shadow was seen within the left hemithorax, accompanied by a mediastinal shift to the right. An x-ray of the pelvis displayed fractures at the right sacroiliac joint, left superior pubic ramus, left inferior pubic ramus, and left anterior acetabular with displacement. A computed tomography scan indicated herniation of the stomach, splenic flexure, and spleen, but there was no clear evidence of pericardial laceration. The patient underwent emergency exploratory laparoscopy and thoracoscopy. During the laparoscopy, a significant defect was found in the left hemidiaphragm, along with a pericardial rupture that had led to cardiac herniation and visceral herniation of the stomach, splenic flexure, and spleen through the diaphragmatic tear. The abdominal visceral organs were repositioned into the abdomen, and the diaphragm was repaired. The heart was repositioned, and the pericardial defect was closed using thoracoscopic techniques. Pericardial rupture can be effectively managed using minimally invasive surgery.; Summary

Heterodigital flap as a solution for a thumb defect: a case report: Bontor Daniel Sinaga, Dwi Purnomo Setyo Budi, Mochamad Sadabaskara; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):56-60. Published online November 18, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0049

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Abstract PDF: Thumb traumatic injuries are incredibly common in hand injuries. The thumb is essential to hand function in order to do daily tasks like gripping, holding, opposing, circumducting, and movements. As a result, compared to injuries to other fingers, a thumb injury significantly impairs hand function. Traumas can cause soft tissue loss linked to vascular injuries that require revascularization. Replantation is the surgical treatment most frequently suggested to patients who have had their thumbs amputated in an attempt to restore function and attractiveness. There are alternative reconstructive techniques, such as skin grafting or local, distal, and free flaps, when replantation of the severed segment is not feasible. Reconstruction techniques vary depending on where the amputation occurred and include transfer site reconstruction and homodigital and heterodigital flaps. We reported a case of a woman who has a right traumatic thumb injury due to blender accident. Primary suturing and debridement were done to save the thumb. But after several days, the thumb was necrotic and not viable. Heterodigital island flap from the right middle finger was chosen. Radial forearm skin was grafted to cover the middle finger defect. This gave satisfactory results. Wound healing was quite good, but there were signs of scar tissue growth after several months of follow-up. The function and mobility of the thumb and hand were also achieved well through the QuickDASH (quick Disability of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand) score. Heterodigital flap provides satisfactory results both aesthetically and functionally in traumatic thumb injury cases.; Summary

Treatment of placental abruption following blunt abdominal trauma: a case report: Jinjoo Kim, Seokyung Kim, Dongwook Kwak, Donghwan Choi; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):61-65. Published online December 4, 2024; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0050

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Abstract PDF: Trauma during pregnancy poses a potentially tragic risk to both the fetus and mother, making its management particularly challenging. Here, we present the case of a 35-year-old woman at 34 weeks and 2 days gestation who was in a motor vehicle accident and subsequently suffered placental abruption and underwent an emergency cesarean section. We also present a review of traumatic placental abruption and its epidemiology. On arrival at the trauma bay, the patient showed no significant abdominal findings other than a seat belt sign. However, 2 hours after admission, the patient developed abdominal pain and vaginal bleeding. Ultrasonography revealed no clear evidence of placental abruption. This case demonstrates the necessity of close maternal and fetal monitoring with cooperation between the trauma and obstetric teams. Even in the absence of typical symptoms such as abdominal pain on initial presentation, a high-energy mechanism of injury should be suspected.; Summary

Successful treatment of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis in a trauma patient: a case report: Young Soo Chung, Jihoon Kim; J Trauma Inj. 2025;38(1):66-70. Published online March 25, 2025; DOI: https://doi.org/10.20408/jti.2024.0093

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Abstract PDF: Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH) is a rare, life-threatening hyperinflammatory syndrome characterized by excessive activation of the immune system. This case report describes an unusual presentation of HLH triggered by severe trauma from a motorcycle accident, which is a departure from traditional associations with infections, malignancies, or autoimmune conditions. A 40-year-old man with multiple traumatic injuries developed persistent fever, pancytopenia, and elevated inflammatory markers following orthopedic surgery. Despite empiric antibiotic therapy, his condition deteriorated, exhibiting high fever, skin rash, hepatic dysfunction, and marked elevation of ferritin levels (32,901 ng/mL). Bone marrow biopsy confirmed the diagnosis of HLH, and treatment was initiated according to the HLH-2004 protocol, which included methylprednisolone, intravenous immunoglobulin, and immunosuppressive therapy. The patient demonstrated significant clinical improvement and was discharged after 37 days, with no recurrence observed during the follow-up period. This case underscores the need to consider HLH in trauma patients presenting with unexplained inflammatory responses and illustrates that prompt diagnosis and aggressive treatment can lead to successful outcomes.; Summary

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