Annals of surgery
-
To compare the needs based assessment of trauma systems (NBATS) tool estimates of trauma center need to the existing trauma infrastructure using observed national trauma volume. ⋯ Application of the NBATS tool nationally shows the need for additional trauma infrastructure across a large segment of the United States. We identified some limitations of the NBATS tool, including preferential weighting based on current infrastructure. The NBATS tool provides a good framework to begin the national discussion around investing in the expansion of trauma systems nationally, however, in many instances lacks the granularity to drive change at the local level.
-
To examine the accuracy of the reporting of conflicts of interest (COI) among studies related to mesh use in ventral hernia repair and abdominal wall reconstruction. ⋯ The majority of studies investigating the use of mesh in ventral hernia repairs and abdominal wall reconstructions did not accurately declare COI. Last authors are at highest risk of undisclosed payments. Current policies on disclosing COI seem to be insufficient to ensure transparency of publications.
-
Analyze the impact of the Affordable Care Act (ACA) on trauma outcomes at a population level and within at-risk subgroups. ⋯ The ACA is associated with improved mortality and increased use of home health services. Discrepancies amongst racial groups and income quartiles are present.