Distribution of Trauma Deaths in a Province of Korea: Is “Trimodal” Distribution Relevant Today?
Kyungjin Hwang, Kyoungwon Jung, Junsik Kwon, Jonghwan Moon, Yunjung Heo, John Cook-Jong Lee, Yo Huh
Abstract
PURPOSE: This study was designed to provide a basis for building a master plan for a regional trauma system by analyzing the distribution of trauma deaths in the most populous province in Korea. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We investigated the time distribution to death for trauma patients who died between January and December 2017. The time distribution to death was categorized into four groups (within a day, within a week, within a month, and over a month). Additionally, the distribution of deaths within 24 hours was further analyzed. We also reviewed the distribution of deaths according to the cause of death and mechanism of injury. RESULTS: <0.001). CONCLUSION: The distribution of overall timing of death was shown to follow a bimodal pattern rather than a trimodal model in Korea. Based on our findings, a suitable and modified trauma system must be developed.