Original research

The Utstein template for uniform reporting of data following major trauma: A joint revision by SCANTEM, TARN, DGU-TR and RITG

Kjetil G Ringdal^1,2 , Timothy J Coats³ , Rolf Lefering⁴ , Stefano Di Bartolomeo⁵ , Petter Andreas Steen² , Olav Røise⁶ , Lauri Handolin⁷ , Hans Morten Lossius¹ and Utstein TCD expert panel

¹Department of Research, Norwegian Air Ambulance Foundation, Drøbak, Norway

²Faculty of Medicine, Faculty Division Ullevål University Hospital, University of Oslo, Norway

³Academic Unit of Emergency Medicine, Leicester University, UK

⁴Institute for Research in Operative Medicine, University of Witten/Herdecke, Cologne-Merheim Medical Centre, Cologne, Germany

⁵Unit of Hygiene and Epidemiology, DPMSC, School of Medicine, University of Udine, Italy

⁶Orthopaedic Centre, Ullevål University Hospital, Oslo, Norway

⁷Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, Helsinki University Central Hospital, Finland

author email corresponding author email

Scandinavian Journal of Trauma, Resuscitation and Emergency Medicine 2008, 16:7doi:10.1186/1757-7241-16-7

Published:	28 August 2008

Abstract

Background

In 1999, an Utstein Template for Uniform Reporting of Data following Major Trauma was published. Few papers have since been published based on that template, reflecting a lack of international consensus on its feasibility and use. The aim of the present revision was to further develop the Utstein Template, particularly with a major reduction in the number of core data variables and the addition of more precise definitions of data variables. In addition, we wanted to define a set of inclusion and exclusion criteria that will facilitate uniform comparison of trauma cases.

Methods

Over a ten-month period, selected experts from major European trauma registries and organisations carried out an Utstein consensus process based on a modified nominal group technique.

Results

The expert panel concluded that a New Injury Severity Score > 15 should be used as a single inclusion criterion, and five exclusion criteria were also selected. Thirty-five precisely defined core data variables were agreed upon, with further division into core data for Predictive models, System Characteristic Descriptors and for Process Mapping.

Conclusion

Through a structured consensus process, the Utstein Template for Uniform Reporting of Data following Major Trauma has been revised. This revision will enhance national and international comparisons of trauma systems, and will form the basis for improved prediction models in trauma care.