An analysis of 161 falls from a height: the 'jumper syndrome'

Abstract

Vertical deceleration injuries represent a distinct form of urban blunt trauma. We reviewed 161 adult patients, admitted over 36 months, who jumped or fell from a height of one to seven stories and survived emergency department resuscitation. Charts and radiographs were analyzed to identify common injuries, complications, and causes of death. Those who fell five or more stories had a mean ISS of 41, for a predicted survival of 50% but actual survival of 83%. Virtually all these patients had multiple fractures. Sixty per cent of them presented in shock, yet more than two thirds had angiographically demonstrated retroperitoneal hemorrhage as their major source of bleeding. Thirteen patients had significant intra-abdominal injuries, with only one associated with major hemorrhage. Utilizing early diagnostic peritoneal lavage, ten of 13 patients explored had a therapeutic laparotomy. Hollow viscus perforations accounted for about one half of the abdominal injuries, including three duodenal injuries. Conclusions. 1) Patients who present in shock after falls from height are much more likely to be bleeding from retroperitoneal than intraperitoneal sources. 2) Early tap and lavage followed by emergency angiography and transcatheter embolization is the treatment of choice in this group of patients. 3) Although these patients often have multiple complex injuries, the prognosis for long-term survival is good. Therefore, we advocate early aggressive operation stabilization of fractures to permit patient mobilization, facilitate pulmonary toilet and nursing care, and to decrease long-term disability.