Identifying the Influence of Lung-Related Injuries and Other Factors on Delirium in Traumatic Brain Injury Patients: A National Analysis.

Abstract

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a known risk factor for delirium, a condition associated with prolonged hospitalization and cognitive deterioration. Although the relationship between TBI and delirium is established, the influence of traumatic lung injuries on delirium development is less understood. Respiratory disorders can significantly influence the central nervous system, with sequelae such as hypoxia and hypercapnia causing neurologic dysfunction. Therefore, we hypothesized that TBI patients suffering lung-associated conditions, stemming either from traumatic lung injury (TLI) or subsequent pulmonary surgery will be associated with an increased risk of developing delirium.

Methods: The 2021 Trauma Quality Improvement Program database was queried for patients with TBI, excluding those with pre-existing dementia. TBI patients developing delirium were compared to those without delirium. A multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed to determine pulmonary and neurogenic-associated risk factors for delirium.

Results: Among 155,252 TBI patients, 3244 (2.1%) developed delirium. Delirium-afflicted patients showed elevated rates of TLI (25.0% vs 13.3%, p < .001), severe head trauma (51.4% vs 37.8%, p < .001), sepsis (3.1% vs 0.5%, p < .001) and more commonly underwent pulmonary operations (21.8% vs 6.6%, p < .001). The strongest associated risk factors for delirium included unplanned intubation (OR 2.79, CI 2.47-3.16, p < .001), pulmonary surgery (OR 1.47, CI 1.32-1.63, p < .001), COPD (OR 1.52, CI 1.34-1.72, p < .001), TLI (OR 1.25, CI 1.14-1.38, p < .001), and severe head injury (OR 1.12, CI 1.04-1.22, p = .003).

Conclusion: Delirium affects approximately 2% of the national TBI population. Our study reveals an influence of lung-related conditions for delirium onset. These results emphasize the intimate relationship of the brain and pulmonary system. Future prospective studies are needed to validate these findings as they may impact TBI management and outcomes.