[Management and outcome of patients with stab injuries treated at a German level I trauma center : A retrospective analysis over a 3-year period].

BACKGROUND

Stab wounds inflicted by a third party represent an increasingly relevant form of penetrating trauma in Germany, gaining attention both in the public sphere and in clinical emergency care.

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective study investigated the incidence, injury severity, anatomical distribution, and clinical outcomes of stab wound cases treated at a German level I trauma center over a 3-year period.

MATERIAL AND

METHODS

All patients presenting with stab injuries to the inner city emergency department of LMU University Hospital between September 2021 and August 2024 were included. A structured analysis of demographic data, injury characteristics, therapeutic interventions and clinical outcomes was conducted.

RESULTS

A total of 48 cases were identified (47 male, 1 female; mean age 36.6 years, median 27 years). The most frequently affected anatomical regions were the upper extremities (25%) and thorax (20.3%). Hospital admission was required in 41.7% of cases, 14.6% sustained major trauma (abbreviated injury scale, AIS ≥ 3) and 1 patient died.

DISCUSSION: Stab wounds continue to pose a rare yet clinically significant challenge. The findings underline the necessity for structured interdisciplinary management and targeted emergency preparedness protocols in trauma systems.