CHANGING PATTERNS OF ORTHOPAEDIC TRAUMA ADMISSIONS. A 5 YEARS REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: This study was performed to review the changing patterns of trauma admissions in Ireland over 5 years (1999–2005).

Materials and Methods: A review of prospectively collected admission data of trauma patients admitted to the Adelaide & Meath Hospital (AMNCH). Dublin, Ireland, during 2005. Data obtained from Hospital In Patient Enquiry (HIPE) system. A comparison is made similar data from 1999. Demographic data, mode of presentations, type of injuries, time of injury and place of injury were recorded. Injury severity was defined using the Injury Severity Score (ISS).

Results: 23% increase in number of admission in 5 years period. Mean age of admission reduced from 35 (1999) to 32 (2005). 67% of admission occurred outside normal office hours (9am–5pm). Commonest mode of injury was road traffic accident (RTA) in 1999 and sports related injury in 2005. Work related trauma increases by 40% and assault increases by 35% from 1999 to 2005. High energy trauma cases reduce by 50% but open fracture cases double in 5 years. Mean overall ISS score was 56. 7(1999) decreased to 45.9 (2006).

Conclusion: These changes cause significant impact on the health system. Increase in facilities for management of trauma is essential as this trend is more likely to continue.