Accuracy of administrative data in trauma

Abstract

Background: Accurate data are needed to evaluate outcomes, therapeutics, and quality of care. This study assesses the accuracy of administrative databases in recording information about trauma patients.

Methods: Patients with thoracic aorta injury were identified with a state trauma registry, and the medical records were reviewed. Data collected were compared to administrative data on patients with thoracic aorta injuries, at the same hospitals in the same time period.

Results: Fifteen patients (16.3%) with thoracic aorta injury were not recorded in the administrative database, and 23 patients (18.7%) were misdiagnosed. Ninety-one patients were found in both data sources. The administrative database significantly (P < .05) underrecorded abdominal injuries (50 vs 35), orthopedic injuries (117 vs 75), and chest injuries (77 vs 48). The number of aortograms (78 vs 8), type of operative procedures (use of graft; 70 vs 30), use of bypass (35 vs 16), and complications (77 vs 33) were underreported (P < .05). The Injury Severity Score was underestimated by the administrative database (38.65 +/- 12.41 vs 25.66 +/- 9.53; P < .05).

Conclusions: Administrative data lack accuracy in the recording of associated injury, injury severity, diagnostic, and procedural data. Whether these data should be used to evaluate treatment or quality of care in trauma is questionable.