Exploratory Laparotomy Following the Mosul Offensive, 2016-2017: Results from a Dedicated Trauma Center in Erbil, Iraqi, Kurdistan

Abstract

Introduction:

The Battle of Mosul (2016-2017) involved asymmetric warfare and excess civilian causalities. Emergency Management Centre (EMC) was a designated trauma center for the battle, located 80 km from Mosul. Exploratory laparotomy outcomes in local hospitals are poorly studied compared to military hospitals. Improving response to complex emergencies requires better contextual understanding.

Method:

Prehospital and hospital data were collected from all patients undergoing exploratory laparotomy at EMC during the battle. Data were collected and validated by EMC’s chief surgeon. New Injury Severity Scores (NISS) were calculated from operative data.

Results:

Seventy-three patients were included. 22 (30.1%) were children; 40 (54.8%) were non-combatant adults. 51 (69%) were male. Bullets caused 74.0% of injuries. Children had prolonged time from injury to first laparotomy compared to adults (600 vs 208 minutes, p<0.05). Median hospital length of stay (LOS) was six days (IQR 4-10; children 16.4 days vs adults 8.6 days, p=0.05). Median NISS was 18 (IQR 12-27). NISS were significantly higher for women (28.5 vs 19.8), children (28.8 vs 20), and re-laparotomy (32.0 vs 19.0) compared to men, adults, and primary laparotomy, respectively. In univariate and multivariate analysis, NISS was associated with hospital, but not ICU, LOS (p<0.01). Twelve patients were re-laparotomies after surgery elsewhere: ten (83.3%) were for failed repairs or missed injuries. Median time to re-operation was 5.5 days (IQR 1-8). Re-operations had longer ICU (4.5 vs 2.9, p<0.01) and hospital stays (20.7 vs 7.6, p<0.01). Three (4%) patients died; two of which were re-laparotomies.

Conclusion:

During the battle, civilians and combatants had similar injury mechanisms and outcomes. Children had a long time to present and LOS. Low mortality likely reflects high prehospital mortality. Prolonged times to admission suggest the need for improved hospital transport. Re-operation was associated with increased complications and LOS. NISS demonstrated predictive value for hospitals, but not ICU, or LOS.