Pattern of Chest Injuries and Role of Intercostal Chest Drain in Patients Presenting with Blunt Trauma: A Research Protocol

Introduction: Chest trauma remains a significant contributor to morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly in rural areas where access to advanced healthcare services is limited. Understanding the patterns of chest injuries and optimising their management is crucial for improving patient outcomes in resource-constrained settings. Need of the study: Blunt chest trauma is a major clinical concern, often leading to life-threatening complications such as pneumothorax, haemothorax, and respiratory failure. Intercostal Chest Drains (ICDs) are integral to the management of these conditions; however, clinical practice lacks clear, evidencebased guidelines on their optimal use. By evaluating common injury types and the effectiveness of ICDs, this research aims to provide actionable insights that can optimise care and improve outcomes for chest trauma patients in rural areas. Aim: This study seeks to assess the patterns of chest injuries and evaluate the role of ICDs in their treatment. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study will be conducted at Acharya Vinoba Bhave Rural Hospital (AVBRH), Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha, Maharashtra, from March 2024 to March 2026. The study will follow ethical guidelines outlined in the Declaration of Helsinki. Data will be collected using a structured case record form, including: Patient demographics (age, sex, occupation). Clinical findings (vital signs, presenting symptoms). Injury details (mechanism of trauma, such as motor vehicle accidents, falls from height, and sports-related injuries; type and pattern of chest injury). Radiological findings {chest X-ray, Computed Tomography (CT) thorax}. Details of ICD (indication, output volume, duration). Treatment outcomes (complications, length of hospital stay, mortality). The Chi-square test will be used to assess associations between categorical variables. A p-value of <0.05 will be considered statistically significant.