Review of gunshot wounds in Dayton, Ohio. Demographics, anatomic areas, results, and costs

M. Fiedler, L. M. Jones, S. F. Miller and R. K. Finley Jr

A retrospective review of 210 admissions for gunshot wounds was performed to evaluate the frequency that various anatomic areas were injured, complication rates, results of treatment, and costs. Seventy-two percent of patients had a single anatomic site involved. The complication rate was 13% and the death rate was 10.9%. A good result was obtained in 72%, but 12.4% had long-term disabilities. The average length of stay was 11 days with an average cost of +5,682 per patient. Application of today's prospective payment under diagnosis-related groups suggests this system of payment may adversely affect the delivery of trauma care in this country.