Interobserver variability of injury severity assessment in polytrauma patients: does the anatomical region play a role?

Abstract Background The Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) and Severity Score (ISS) are widely used to assess trauma patients. In this study, the interobserver variability of injury severity assessment for severely injured patients was analyzed based on different anatomical regions, various demographic backgrounds observers. Methods A standardized questionnaire presented surgical experts participants clinical polytrauma courses. It contained medical information initial X-rays/CT-scans 10 cases Participants estimated each AIS. Interobserver AIS, ISS, New (NISS) calculated by employing statistical method Krippendorff's α coefficient. Results Overall, 54 were included. major contributing specialties orthopedic surgery ( N = 36, 67%) general 13, 24%). measured in overall high (α ISS : 0.33 / NISS 0.23). Moreover, there differences maximum AIS (MAIS) depending region: head neck 0.06, thorax 0.45, abdomen 0.27 extremities 0.55. Conclusions agreement concerning appears be low among clinicians. We also noted marked according anatomy. study shows that is highly variable between field. This implies need appropriate education improve accuracy evaluation respective registries.