Factors Impacting Mortality in the Pre-Hospital Period After Road Traffic Accidents in Urban India

"Golden Hour" in Road Traffic Accident Victims: Hurdles and Impact on Mortality

Introduction Road traffic accident (RTA)-related death and disability are alarming health issues globally, which are rapidly increasing in developing countries. Timely presentation to a health center and prompt medical care are needed to prevent mortality and morbidity related to RTAs. This study was conducted to find out the hurdles in the golden hour arrival of RTA victims and to study its impact on RTA mortality at a tertiary health institute. Materials and methods This retrospective, cross-sectional analytical study was conducted in the Department of Emergency Medicine of Bharati Vidyapeeth (Deemed to be University) Medical College and Hospital in Sangli, India, over a period of six months from January 1 to June 31, 2022, after obtaining institutional ethical committee approval. This tertiary care center is situated at the border of two states in Western India. All adult RTA victims who were treated during the study period were included. Data were collected using structured, pretested, and validated pro forma. Data was statistically analyzed. The factors associated with mortality were analyzed using a chi-squared test. Results We studied a total of 315 RTA victims. Around 49.2% (n=155) of patients were from the 29-48-year age group, and male (87%; n=276) predominance was observed. We observed 46% (n=144) of accidents on weekend days and found alcohol consumption in 45% (n=142). Around 61% (n=193) of accidents occurred within 50 km of our hospital. Only 20.6% (n=65) of patients arrived at a healthcare facility within the golden hour. We did not observe a significant association (p=0.166391) between golden hour arrival and mortality in our study but observed statistically significant associations for mortality with on-arrival Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) values of less than 8, patients admitted to the intensive care unit (ICU), and the presence of traumatic brain injury. Transport vehicles accounted for 33% (n=104) of the obstacles in reaching the emergency department (ED), followed by finances (30%; n=96), lack of knowledge about the nearby health facility (14.6%; n=46), absence of an accompanying person (11%; n=35), and fear of legal formalities and hospital detention (5%; n=17). Twenty percent (n=63) of patients reported experiencing one or more of these obstacles. Conclusion Less than one-fourth of RTA patients arrived at a medical facility during the golden hour. In developing countries like India, the causes of delay are numerous. The severity of injuries determines RTA fatality.

Incidence and predictors of mortality among road traffic accident victims admitted to hospitals at Hawassa city, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Globally, road traffic accidents are the eighth-leading cause of death for all age groups. The estimated number of road traffic deaths in low income countries was more than three times as high as in high-income countries. Africa had the highest rate of fatalities attributed to road traffic accidents. Ethiopia has the highest number of road traffic fatalities among Sub-Saharan African countries. The main objective of this study was to determine the incidence and predictors of mortality among road traffic victims admitted to hospitals in Hawassa City.

METHODS

A facility-based retrospective cohort study was conducted using secondary data from hospital records. A total of 398 road traffic accident victims admitted to selected hospitals in Hawassa city from January 2019 to December 2021 participated in the study. Data were analyzed using STATA version 14.1. The Cox regression model was used to determine the predictors of mortality. A hazard ratio with a 95% confidence interval and a cut-off value of P<0.05 was used to declare the risk and statistical significance, respectively.

RESULT

The incidence rate of mortality for road traffic accident victims was 7.34 per 10,000 person-hours. The predictors of mortality were the value of GCS at admission <8 (aHR = 5.86; 95% CI: 2.00-17.19), GCS at admission 9-12 (aHR = 3.27; 95% CI: 1.28-8.40), the value of SBP at admission ≤89mmHg (aHR = 4.41; 95% CI: 2.22-8.77), admission to the ICU (aHR = 3.89; 95% CI: 1.83-8.28) and complications (aHR = 5.48; 95% CI: 2.74-10.01).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of mortality among road traffic victims admitted to hospitals in Hawassa city was high. Thus, thorough follow-up and intensive management should be given to victims with critical health conditions.

Road accidents on Indian National highways, ambulance reachability and transportation of injured to trauma facility: Survey-based introspection of golden hour

Background

The transportation system plays a crucial role in the context of socioeconomic development, whereas the highway infrastructure acts as a base for the transportation system. In recent years, a rich impetus has been given to the development of road infrastructure by Indian governance. There is a need to introspect how well the prevailing highway infrastructure is equipped with emergency rescue management during road accidents. Lack of ambulance service and trauma facilities along the highways results in a steady loss of lives and injuries and increases people's exposure to risks.

Objective

This study aims to determine the response time of ambulance reachability to the accident spot on Indian national highways associated with heavy commercial transportation. Also, determining the time to transport the injured to the nearest trauma facility is another factor included as an objective in this investigation.

Methods

The study adopted survey-based research, whereby the variables in the questionnaire were designed to record and assess the time for an ambulance to reach the accident spot and, from there, to transport the injured to the trauma management facility on Indian highways. Two hundred twenty-five participants who were either victims/relatives of victims or those involved in the rescue of the injured have participated in the survey. The dates of the accident events were 2017 and 2022.

Results

The survey resulted in the identification of two categories of highway accidents. The first category of accidents happened on the highways near city limits/dense settlements, and the second category occurred on the core highways. The percentage of accidents caused on the highways either adjacent to or passing through the city limits/dense settlements was reported to be higher than the accidents on the core highways. Ninety percent of the participants reported successful contact with the ambulance call/service centre, but only ~75% success rate exists for ambulances to reach the accident scene. On the core highways, the time taken for the ambulance to arrive at the accident scene is 25-35 minutes. The results from the survey ascertained that the patients were prioritised for treatment in the nearest hospitals (irrespective of having a trauma facility) at a distance of ~12-20 km, for which the time taken is ~15-25 minutes. Importantly, from the interviews, it is understood that in many cases, these hospitals have further referred to specialty hospitals located in nearby cities or trauma centres with greater facilities. Occasions exist where the injured were taken directly to hospitals 30-40 km from the accident spot, for which the time was more than 40 minutes.

Conclusions

The results provide evidence that in either of the accident cases on the highways that are adjacent to/passing through the city limits or on the core highways, the total time for emergency care accessibility is nearly 60 minutes or greater; this implies that in the majority of cases, there is very meagre time left to provide emergency medical care to the needy and injured on the Indian highways to abide by the concept of golden hour. Plausible reforms backed by technology for enabling highways into 'emergency rescuable highways' are highly needed to guarantee a safer and more sustainable transportation system in India.

Demographic characteristics of patients who underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction at a tertiary care hospital in India

BACKGROUND

Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tears are common sports-related injuries. Their incidence is not the same either for all the sports or for the same sport across various nations. This information is maintained by many sports leagues in their registries. However, very few nationwide registries exist for such injuries. This study is carried out to know the demographic characteristics of patients who underwent ACL reconstruction at our hospital in India.

AIM

To know the demographic characteristics of patients who underwent ACL reconstruction at a tertiary care hospital in India.

METHODS

All the patients who underwent ACL reconstruction from January 2020 to December 2021 were retrospectively studied. Patients with multi-ligament injuries or a history of previous knee surgery were excluded. The patients' history was obtained from the hospital records, they were interviewed telephonically, and online questionnaires were given. Their demographic data was analyzed and compared to the existing literature.

RESULTS

A total of 124 patients were operated on for ACL reconstruction during this period. The mean age of the patients was 27.97 years. One hundred and thirteen patients (91.1%) were male and 11 (8.9%) were female. The majority of the patients (47.6%) sustained this injury by road traffic accidents (RTA) followed by sports-related injuries (39.5%). The commonest presenting complaint was giving way of the knee in 118 patients (95.2%). The mean duration from the injury to the first hospital visit among the patients was 290.1 d. The mean duration from the injury to surgery was 421.8 d.

CONCLUSION

ACL patients' demography is different in developing nations as compared to the developed world. RTA are the leading cause of ACL injuries and are followed by recreational sports as a cause. There is delayed access to healthcare leading to delayed diagnosis as well as even greater time to surgery. This, in turn, leads to poorer prognosis and longer rehabilitation. National registries for developing nations are the need of the hour due to the different demographics of ACL injuries in developing countries.

Pattern of Road Traffic Injuries and Their Pre-hospitalization Factors Reported at a Public Tertiary Healthcare Facility and Rural Private Healthcare Facility in Rajasthan, India

OBJECTIVE

We aimed to report the pattern of road traffic injuries (RTIs) and pre-hospitalization factors of road traffic injuries among the accident victims reported at an urban and a rural healthcare facility in the Jaipur district, Rajasthan.

METHODS

This cross-sectional study was conducted in a tertiary-level, urban public healthcare facility in Jaipur city and a secondary-level, rural private facility in nearby Chomu town. The study participants were all those who encountered road traffic injury and visited any of these healthcare facilities to seek care. The study tool included information on demographics, type of road user, vehicles, accidents, roads, environment, and other pre-hospitalization factors. Data collectors were nurses trained to collect data using the tablet-based application. Data were analyzed using proportions/percentages. Bivariate analysis was done to assess the significance of differences between categories of factors and between rural and urban facilities.

RESULTS

Among 4,642 cases, 93.8% were enrolled in the urban facility, and the remaining were enrolled in the rural facility. Predominantly, males (83.9%) and young adults 18-34 years (58.9%) were reported in both study facilities. Among the accident victims reported at the urban facility, major groups were educated up to the primary level (25.1%) or graduate level (21.9%). About 60% of them were drivers. Most of these injuries occurred on urban roads (50.2%) or two-lane roads (42%). About three-fourths of the injured were using two-wheeler geared vehicles, and 46.7% were overtaking or turning the vehicle when the accident happened. The majority of cases (61.6%) did not require hospitalization. Among the rural facility participants, 27.2% were graduates, and 24.7% were below primary education. Most of these injuries happened on the national highway (35.8%) or rural roads (33.3%). Most of them used two-wheeler geared (80.1%) at the time of the accident. Most were injured while doing normal straight driving (80.5%). Most participants (80.1%) in the rural facility did not follow the traffic rules, and 43.9% required hospitalization.

CONCLUSION

Young males were the most affected age group by road traffic injuries. Differential patterns of road traffic injuries and pre-hospital factors were observed in urban and rural areas.

24 h mortality and its predictors among road traffic accident victims in a resource limited setting; a multicenter cohort study

INTRODUCTION

The incidence of road traffic accidents (RTAs) is on the rise contributing to the global burden of mortality as a major global health threat. It has been estimated that 93% of RTAs and more than 90% of the resulting deaths occur in low and middle income countries. Though death due to RTAs has been occurring at an alarming rate, there is paucity of data relating to incidence and predictors of early mortality. This study was aimed at determining the 24 h mortality and its predictors among RTA patients attending selected hospitals in western Uganda.

METHODS

This was a prospective cohort that consecutively enrolled 211 RTA victims admitted and managed in emergency units of 6 hospitals in western Uganda. All patients who presented with a history of trauma were managed according to the advanced trauma life support protocol (ATLS). The outcome regarding death was documented at 24 h from injury. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 22 for windows.

RESULTS

Majority of the participants were male (85.8%) aged 15-45 years (76.3%). The most common road user category was motorcyclists (48.8%). The 24 h mortality was 14.69%. At multivariate analysis, it was observed that a motorcyclist was 5.917 times more likely to die compared to a pedestrian (P = 0.016). It was also observed that a patient with severe injury was 15.625 times more likely to die compared to one with a moderate injury (P < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The incidence of 24 h mortality among road traffic accident victims was high. Being motorcycle rider and severity of injury according to Kampala trauma score II predicted mortality. Motorcyclists should be reminded to be more careful while using the road. Trauma patients should be assessed for severity, and the findings used to guide management since severity predicted mortality.

Predictors of pre-hospital vs. hospital mortality due to road traffic injuries in an Iranian population: results from Tabriz integrated road traffic injury registry

Background

Road Traffic Injuries (RTIs) is considered as one of the main health challenges and causes of mortality, worldwide and especially in Iran. Predicting the place where RTIs-related death takes place is vital in decreasing this type of mortality. The purpose of the present study was to identify the predictors of RTI fatalities with respect to the place of death (hospital vs. pre-hospital) during the recent decade in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran.

Methods

Overall, 7347 RTI fatalities were retrieved from the road traffic injuries registry which is supported by the Forensic Medicine Organization in East Azerbaijan. Among these cases, 2758(37.5%)) were hospital deaths. The registered variables of these cases were analysed using bivariate and multiple logistic regression (STATA version 15).

Results

Out of 7347 deaths, 5862 (79.8%) were men and the rest were women 1485 (20.2%).The mean age was 40.3 (SD = 20.8). Of the total number of cases, 2758 (37.5%) died in hospital death and the rest 4589 (62.5) were pre-hospital death. According to the results of the present study, inter-city RTI (OR = 1.7, CI 95% = (1.5–2)) and RTIs inside the city of Tabriz (OR = 1.4, CI 95% = (1.2–1.6)) increases the chance of hospitals death. In addition, having a heavy counterpart vehicle compared to no counterpart vehicle decreased the chances of hospitals death (OR = 0.46, CI 95% = (0.39–0.55)) while motorcycle or bike counterpart vehicle compared to no counterpart vehicle increased the chances of hospital death (OR = 2.26, CI 95% = (1.59–3.22)). Also the users of the motorcycle or bike vehicle compared to the pedestrians increased the chances of hospital death (OR = 1.43, CI 95% = (1.19–1.71)) while any the other vehicle users compared to the pedestrians have significantly lower chances for hospital death. Other factors that increased hospitals death were transferring injured people by ambulance (OR = 1.3, CI 95% = (1.1–1.6)) and being elderly (OR = 1.5, CI 95% = (1.2–1.7)). Moreover, it was found that the annual trend of change in hospital death is strongly affected by the above-identified factors.

Conclusions

The effective predictors in hospital death were RTI location, type of counterpart vehicle, used vehicles and lighting condition. The identified factors related to the location of deaths by RTI can be divided into the RTI severity-related factors as well as factors related to the services quality and speed of delivery. According to the present results, through professional training of people in the field and providing immediate assistance in RTIs pre-hospital mortality can be significantly prevented.

Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of first aid among taxi operators in a Kampala City Taxi Park, Uganda: A cross-sectional study

INTRODUCTION

Road traffic accidents are among the leading causes of death in Uganda. Taxi operators are at a high risk of RTA and can potentially be first responders. This study, aimed to assess knowledge, attitude, and practice of first aid among taxi operators in the new taxi park, Kampala Uganda.

METHODS

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 among taxi drivers and conductors in the New Taxi Park, Kampala City, Uganda. A semi-structured questionnaire was used to collect quantitative data from taxi operators after informed consent. Chi-square or Fisher's exact test and logistic regression were performed in STATA 16 to assess the association between first aid knowledge and demographics. P < 0.05 was statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 345 participants, majority males (n = 338, 98%) aged between 18 and 45 years (76.5%), were recruited. Although 97.7% (n = 337) had heard about first aid, only 19.4% (n = 67) had prior first aid training. Overall mean knowledge score was 40.1% (SD = 14.5%), with 29.9% (n = 103) having good knowledge (≥50%). Participants who had witnessed more than five accidents (aOR = 2.9, 95% CI = 1.7-4.8, p < 0.001), those with first aid kits (aOR = 1.7, 95% CI = 1.0-3.0, p = 0.38) were more likely to have good knowledge while those below post-secondary education level i.e., Primary (AOR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1-0.5, p ≤0.001) and secondary (aOR = 0.2, 95% CI = 0.1-0.6, p = 0.001), were less likely to have good knowledge. About 97% and 93% perceived first aid as important and were willing to undergo training, respectively; however, only 69% were willing to give first aid. Only 181(52.5%) had ever attended to accident victims.

CONCLUSION

Majority of taxi operators had poor first aid knowledge. Factors associated with good knowledge included level of education, number of accidents witnessed, having first aid kits. Although their attitudes were favorable, practice was poor. Comprehensive training and refresher courses can help increase first aid knowledge, and improving practice.

Magnitude of death and associated factors among road traffic injury victims admitted to emergency outpatient departments of public and private hospitals at Adama Town, East Shewa Zone, Ethiopia

Objectives:

Road traffic injuries, disabilities, and deaths have been a major public health problem worldwide and in Ethiopia. Globally, around 1.35 million people die every year on the roads and 20–50 million sustain nonfatal injuries as a result of road traffic crashes. This study aimed to assess the magnitude of deaths and associated factors among road traffic injury victims admitted to emergency outpatient departments of public and private hospitals at Adama town, East Shewa Zone, Ethiopia.

Methods:

Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 381 road traffic injury victims admitted to hospitals in Adama town, East Shewa, Ethiopia, from 14 December 2019 to 29 February 2020. Data were collected using interviewer-administered structured questionnaires. Data were entered into EpiData version 4.6.0.2 and analyzed using SPSS version 21. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regressions were fitted to identify variables significantly associated with road traffic injury–related deaths and the results were presented with adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence interval. Statistical significance was declared at p-value < 0.05.

Results:

The magnitude of deaths among road traffic injury victims were 12.9%. Age (25–44 years) (adjusted odds ratio = 4.24, 95% confidence interval = 1.70–10.61), rural resident (adjusted odds ratio = 2.26, 95% confidence interval = 1.11–4.55), pedestrian (adjusted odds ratio = 3.72, 95% confidence interval = 1.67–7.99), night-time injury (adjusted odds ratio = 5.29, 95% confidence interval = 2.52–11.10), injuries on weekends (adjusted odds ratio = 2.32, 95% confidence interval = 1.12–4.80), not getting first aid at injury site (adjusted odds ratio = 2.64, 95% confidence interval = 1.02–6.84), and known comorbidity conditions (adjusted odds ratio = 3.01, 95% confidence interval = 1.23–7.38) were significantly associated with road traffic injuries–related deaths.

Conclusion:

A significant proportion of road traffic injuries resulted in death. Age, place of residence, pedestrians, night-time injury, and not getting first aid were associated with road traffic injuries–related deaths. Preventive strategies that focus on young adults, rural residents, pedestrians, and people with comorbidities would minimize road traffic injuries–related deaths. Moreover, strict supervision on weekend and night-time drives, and providing accessible lifesaving first aid services would have significant importance.

Provision of Care Following Road Traffic Injuries in a District in South India: A Qualitative Analysis of Stakeholder Perspective

Introduction:

It is essential to explore ways to prevent and reduce the severity of injuries in road crashes. This study attempts at getting a ground-level understanding of perspectives surrounding road traffic injury among various stakeholders.

Materials and Methods:

In-depth interviews and focused group discussions were conducted over a period of 6 months among traffic police, toll booth operators, road transport officers, nurses, and intensive care specialists. The transcribed data were coded and analyzed, and a percentage of final themes as well as codes were drawn.

Results:

The common reasons cited for delay in transport of accident victims were fear regarding medicolegal issues among the first responders (36.9%) and delay in ambulance (41.5%). 26.1% agreed that time delay in transport can be reduced by generating awareness. Teaching first aid to the general public is essential as opined by 75% of nursing staff and 66.7% of emergency physicians. Documentation procedures (15.4%), long waiting hours (10.2%), and out-of-pocket expenditure and financial constraints (10.2%) were the commonly cited reasons for problems faced by patient bystanders.

Conclusions:

Creating awareness and improving access to ambulance were the two essential recommendations to prevent delay in prehospital care. Majority of the care providers and patient bystanders agreed that improving insurance coverage is essential to reduce financial constraints.

Identification of Factors Affecting Road Traffic Injuries Incidence and Severity in Southern Thailand Based on Accident Investigation Reports

Thailand has the second-highest rates of road traffic mortality globally. Detailed information on the combination of human, vehicle, and environmental risks giving rise to each incident is important for addressing risk factors holistically. This paper presents the result of forensic road traffic investigation reports in Thailand and determines risk factor patterns for road traffic injuries. Detailed forensic reports were extracted for 25 serious traffic accident events. The Haddon matrix was used to analyze risk factors in three phases stratified by four agents. The 25 events analyzed involved 407 victims and 47 vehicles. A total of 65.8% of victims were injured, including 14.5% who died. The majority (66.1%) of deaths occurred at the scene. Human-error-related factors included speeding and drowsiness. Passenger risks included not using the seat belt, sitting in the cargo area and the cab of pickups. Overloaded vehicles, unsafe car modifications, no occupant safety equipment and having unfixed seats were vehicular risks. Environmental risks included fixed objects on the roadside, no traffic lights, no guard rails, no traffic signs, and road accident black spots. At present, traffic accidents cause much avoidable severe injury and death. The outcome of this paper identifies a number of preventable risk factors for traffic injury, and importantly examines them in conjunction. Road traffic safety measures need to consider how human, vehicle, and environmental risks intersect to influence injury likelihood and severity. The Haddon matrix is useful in identifying these pre- and post-accident risk factors. Furthermore, the sustainable preventions of road traffic injury need to address these risks together with active law enforcement.

Epidemiologic characteristics and pre-hospital care of traumatic injuries during the COVID-19 pandemic in an emerging and developing country: A single tertiary centre experience

BACKGROUND

Pre-hospital care has been shown to reduce the mortality in trauma patients. The present study is an attempt to identify the status of pre-hospital orthopaedic trauma care in developing countries during COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

This was a prospective observational study carried out in a tertiary care setup from March 25th^, 2020 to January 31st^, 2021. All the data pertaining to the traumatic injuries including demographic details and epidemiologic characteristics were recorded in an electronic database.

RESULTS

A total of 1044 patients were included in the study for evaluation. The mean age was 35.24 ± 19.84 years. There were 873 males and 171 females. A total of 748 presented from nearby states, with 401 being the referrals and 347 cases coming directly to hospital. A total of 141 open fractures presented directly and 269 were referred from nearby states. Out of 269 cases of open fractures, only 67 and 139 were given intravenous antibiotics and had wound dressing done respectively at the periphery site. A total of 125, 112, 92 and 84 patients were received without traction/splintage, intravenous fluids, dose of analgesics and recording of vitals respectively. Delay from injury to presentation in emergency/administration of antibiotic (Hours) was 7.06. Road side accidents were main cause comprising of 52.58% cases. Gustilo Anderson classification grade-2 comprised of majority of the open fractures (51.63%). Lower limb fractures comprised of majority of the injuries (70.59%). Majority were adults and conservative management was the most common mode of treatment. A total of 197 and 265 patients had associated head injuries and blunt trauma chest/blunt trauma abdomen respectively.

CONCLUSION

Emphasizing on pre-hospital care measures, with special focus on co-ordination between primary, secondary and tertiary health care facilities is the need of the hour and can prevent additional morbidities, avoiding overburden of the already compromised healthcare centres.

A state-of-the-art review of factors that predict mortality among traumatic injury patients following a road traffic crash

BACKGROUND

Traffic related injuries are a major public health problem worldwide with millions of people dying every year. The objective of this state-of-the-art review was to identify the factors reported in the literature as being associated with mortality for trauma patients following road traffic crashes.

METHOD

A systematic search was undertaken of PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases to identify articles published in the past two decades (2000-2020). Of 8257 records, 4507 remained for title, abstract and full text screening after duplicates were removed. The level of evidence of selected studies was assessed using The National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) guideline.

RESULTS

This review included eighty primary research studies examining mortality risk factors following a road traffic crash. The study identified factors in five categories; (i) demographic factors; (ii) behavioural factors; (iii) crash characteristics; (iv) environmental and timing factors; (v) injury severity and pre-injury/condition. The primary studies are summarised in a matrix. Included studies included level II to level IV levels of evidence based on the NHMRC criteria.

CONCLUSION

This study shows that there are a large number of factors associated with increased risk of mortality following diverse types of traffic crashes. Understanding these wide-ranging factors can strengthen injury and mortality prevention by guiding decision makers about where to focus strategy implementation.

A Reevaluation of the Risk of Infection Based on Time to Debridement in Open Fractures: Results of the GOLIATH Meta-Analysis of Observational Studies and Limited Trial Data

BACKGROUND

Open fractures are one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. The threshold time to debridement that reduces the infection rate is unclear.

METHODS

We searched all available databases to identify observational studies and randomized trials related to open fracture care. We then conducted an extensive meta-analysis of the observational studies, using raw and adjusted estimates, to determine if there was an association between the timing of initial debridement and infection.

RESULTS

We identified 84 studies (18,239 patients) for the primary analysis. In unadjusted analyses comparing various "late" time thresholds for debridement versus "early" thresholds, there was an association between timing of debridement and surgical site infection (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.11 to 1.49, p < 0.001, I2 = 30%, 84 studies, n = 18,239). For debridement performed between 12 and 24 hours versus earlier than 12 hours, the OR was higher in tibial fractures (OR = 1.37, 95% CI = 1.00 to 1.87, p = 0.05, I2 = 19%, 12 studies, n = 2,065), and even more so in Gustilo type-IIIB tibial fractures (OR = 1.46, 95% CI = 1.13 to 1.89, p = 0.004, I2 = 23%, 12 studies, n = 1,255). An analysis of Gustilo type-III fractures showed a progressive increase in the risk of infection with time. Critical time thresholds included 12 hours (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.28 to 1.78, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%, 16 studies, n = 3,502) and 24 hours (OR = 2.17, 95% CI = 1.73 to 2.72, p < 0.001, I2 = 0%, 29 studies, n = 5,214).

CONCLUSIONS

High-grade open fractures demonstrated an increased risk of infection with progressive delay to debridement.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Prognostic Level IV. See Instruction for Authors for a complete description of the levels of evidence.

Clinicoepidemiological profile of trauma patients admitting to the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital in eastern India

Context:

Trauma is an immediate cause of patients flowing to the emergency department of any hospital. Besides epidemiology, clinical profile and treatment strategy forms an important aspect to reflect the gap in the existing public sector health-care system and the requirement.

Aims:

To evaluate the clinicoepidemiological profile of trauma patients admitting to an apex trauma hospital in east India.

Settings and Design:

A prospective observational study was performed during the time period of December 2018 to July 2019 on trauma patients admitted to the Trauma and Emergency department.

Methods and Material:

Patient's demographic profile, injury type, mechanism, the vehicle involved in the accident, and transportation were recorded. Various trauma scores (clinical) and outcome measures were recorded.

Statistical Analysis Used:

Statistical analysis was done by R version 3.6.1.

Results:

Male: female ratio was 407:93 with the 21–30 age group predominantly. 2–6 PM was the most common time of injury and ambulance was the predominant mode of transport (58%). Road traffic injury (RTI) accounted for 75% victims; two-wheelers (68%) dominated over others. Thirty percent (drivers 18%, pillion riders 12%) were wearing helmet; 41% were wearing seat belts (drivers 34%, passenger 12%). Twenty-five percent of drivers consumed alcohol. The median ± Interquartile range of injury severity score (ISS), revised trauma and trauma score and injury severity score were 17 (11–26), 7.8 (4.1–7.8), and 98.41 (95.95–99.30), respectively. Extremity injury (54% fractures) and head injury (50%) were the frontrunners in the pattern of injury, with half of the victims were polytrauma (ISS > 15).

Conclusions:

The injury was prominently RTI and the trauma victims/patients were young male drivers on two wheelers. The focus should be directed to make use of safety measures among the youth.

Analysis of Emergency Department Presentations due to Injuries From Motor Vehicle Crashes and Pedestrian Strikes

Objective The objective of this study was to analyze the causes and outcomes of presentations to the emergency department (ED) due to injuries from motor vehicle crashes and pedestrian strikes along several parameters. Methods Data from 798 patients who were injured due to motor vehicle crashes or pedestrian strikes that occurred in Canakkale Province were retrospectively analyzed. Patient demographic data such as age and gender, emergency service outcomes, and the consulted clinics were also recorded. Distributions of the crashes by weekdays or weekends, national and religious holidays, official holidays, and Ramadan month were comparatively analyzed. Results A total of 253 people injured in motor vehicle crashes and 395 people injured in pedestrian strikes were directly brought to the ED from the crash or strike scene. While 656 patients were discharged from the ED, 142 patients were referred to other clinics for surgery. A total of 538 crashes occurred on weekdays and 206 on weekends, and 54 crashes occurred during official and religious holidays. Most crashes occurred in summer, and the second most occurred in autumn. The rate of pedestrian strikes that occurred in summer and autumn was statistically significantly higher than the rate of injuries from motor vehicle crashes observed in the same seasons. The majority of the weekend crashes were caused by persons who had not consumed alcohol. Conclusion Traffic crashes occur more commonly among young men and in the summer season, while national, official, and religious holidays do not seem to play a role in the frequency of traffic crashes.

A profile of traumatic injury in the prehospital setting in India: A prospective observational study across seven states

BACKGROUND

Traumatic injury continues to be a leading cause of mortality and morbidity in low-income and middle-income countries (LMIC). The World Health Organization has called for a strengthening of prehospital care in order to improve outcomes from trauma. In this study we sought to profile traumatic injury seen in the prehospital setting in India and identify predictors of mortality in this patient population.

METHODS

We conducted a prospective observational study of a convenience sample of patients using a single emergency medical services (EMS) system for traumatic injuries across seven states in India from November 2015 through January 2016. Any patient with a chief complaints indicative of a traumatic injury was eligible for enrollment. Our primary outcome was 30-day mortality.

RESULTS

We enrolled 2905 patients. Follow-up rates were 76% at 2 days, 70% at 7 days, and 70% at 30 days. The median age was 36 years (IQR: 25-50) and were predominately male (72%, N = 2088), of lower economic status (97%, N = 2805 used a government issued ration card) and were from rural or tribal areas (74%, N = 2162). Cumulative mortality at 2, 7, and 30 days, was 3%, 4%, and 4% respectively. Predictors of 30-day mortality were prehospital abnormal mental status (OR 7.5 (95% CI: 4-14)), presence of hypoxia or hypotension (OR 4.0 (95% CI: 2.2-7)), on-scene mobility (OR 2.8 (95% CI: 1.3-6)), and multisystem injury inclusive of head injury (OR 2.3 (95% CI: 1.1-5)).

CONCLUSIONS

EMS in an LMIC can transport trauma patients from poor and rural areas that traditionally struggle to access timely trauma care to facilities in a timeframe consistent with current international recommendations. Information readily obtained by EMTs predicts 30-day mortality within this population and could be utilized for triaging patients with the potential to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Analysis of Road Traffic Accidents in Turkey between 2013 and 2017

Background and objectives: Road traffic accident (RTAs) is one of the top ten leading causes of death worldwide and its incidence is higher in developing countries. In this study, our aim was to determine the characteristics of RTAs in Turkey and make recommendations to reduce mortality and morbidity related to RTAs. Material and Methods: We obtained our data, which cover the years 2013 to 2017, from the database accessible at the official website of the Turkish Statistical Institute, which permits the use of its data for research purposes. The chi-square test was used for statistical analysis, and the percentage distribution and odds ratios were calculated. Results: In the study period, a total of 697,957 RTAs occurred in Turkey. A total of 1,168,121 individuals have been wounded and 3534 of them have lost their lives. The majority of RTAs occurred on weekends and in summer months. Male individuals are more likely to be exposed to death and injuries related to accidents. When the vehicle type is considered, motorcycle drivers are under more risk for RTAs. RTAs are more likely to occur in rural areas. Conclusion: Male individuals and motorcyclists are under a great risk for RTAs. Strict laws are mandatory in order to reduce morbidity and mortality related to RTAs. Additionally, educational efforts must focus on two-wheelers and tractor drivers, particularly in developing countries.

Ambulance use is not associated with patient acuity after road traffic collisions: a cross-sectional study from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

BACKGROUND

Africa accounts for one sixth of global road traffic deaths-most in the pre-hospital setting. Ambulance transport is expensive relative to other modes of pre-hospital transport, but has advantages in time-sensitive, high-acuity scenarios. Many countries, including Ethiopia, are expanding ambulance fleets, but clinical characteristics of patients using ambulances remain ill-defined.

METHODS

This is a cross-sectional study of 662 road traffic collisions (RTC) patients arriving to a single trauma referral center in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, over 7 months. Emergency Department triage records were used to abstract clinical and arrival characteristics, including acuity. The outcome of interest was ambulance arrival. Secondary outcomes of interest were inter-facility referral and referral communication. Descriptive and multivariable statistics were computed to identify factors independently associated with outcomes.

RESULTS

Over half of patients arrived with either high (13.1%) or moderate (42.2%) acuity. Over half (59.0%) arrived by ambulance, and nearly two thirds (65.9%) were referred. Among referred patients, inter-facility communication was poor (57.7%). Patients with high acuity were most likely to be referred (aOR 2.20, 95%CI 1.16-4.17), but were not more likely to receive ambulance transport (aOR 1.56, 95%CI 0.86-2.84) or inter-facility referral communication (aOR 0.98, 95%CI 0.49-1.94) than those with low acuity. Nearly half (40.2%) of all patients were referred by ambulance despite having low acuity.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite ambulance expansion in Addis Ababa, ambulance use among RTC patients remains heavily concentrated among those with low-acuity. Inter-facility referral appears a primary contributor to low-acuity ambulance use. In other contexts, similar routine ambulance monitoring may help identify low-value utilization. Regional guidelines may help direct ambulance use where most valuable, and warrant further evaluation.

Management of Orthopaedic Injuries in Multiply Injured Child

Multiply injured child is a unique challenge to the medical communities worldwide. It is a leading cause of preventable mortality and morbidity in children. Common skeletal injuries include closed or open fractures of tibia and femur and pelvic injuries. Initial management focuses on saving life and then saving limb as per pediatric advanced life support and advanced trauma life support. Orthopedic management of open fracture includes splinting the limb, administration of prophylactic antibiotic, and surgical debridement of the wound when safe. However, gross contamination, compartment syndrome, and vascular injuries demand urgent attention.

Epidemiology and Outcome Determinants of Pedestrian Injuries in a Level I Trauma Center in Southern Iran; A Cross-Sectional Study

Objective

To epidemiologically assess the accidents and incidents in the injured pedestrians referred to Shahid Rajaee Hospital, Shiraz in order to provide basic preventive strategies and reduce injuries and fatalities caused by traffic accidents in pedestrians.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted on 5840 injured pedestrians referred to Shahid Rajaee Hospital, Shiraz from 2009 to 2014. The baseline characteristic including the demographic and clinical information, the mechanism of injury, injury severity score (ISS) and outcome determinants. We also recorded the outcome measures and the mortality. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the factors related to mortality rate and Length of Stay (LOS) in hospital.

Results

In our study, the history of 5840 injured pedestrians was analyzed. The mean age of the patients was 41.32 ± 19.21 years. Multivariate logistic regression indicated that mortality increased with age. Moreover, the odds of mortality was more in patients with Injury Severity Score (ISS) between 16 and 24 [OR: 12.94, 95% CI (3.78-32.66), p=0.001] and injuries in the head and neck [OR: 7.92, 95% CI (4.18-14.99), p=0.020]. LOS in hospital was also higher in patients with ISS > 25 [OR: 16.65, 95%CI (10.68-25.96), p=0.001].

Conclusion

Pedestrians have always been one of the most vulnerable road users. Our study indicated that the adverse consequences and mortalities in pedestrians increased with age. Hence, approaches are required to improve primary prevention programs and reduce deaths and injuries due to this major public health problem.