Is mechanism of injury associated with outcome in spinal trauma? An observational cohort study from Tanzania.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic spinal injury (TSI) is a disease of significant global health burden, particularly in low and middle-income countries where road traffic-related trauma is increasing. This study compared the demographics, injury patterns, and outcomes of TSI caused by road traffic accidents (RTAs) to non-traffic related TSI. METHODS: A retrospective analysis was conducted using a neurotrauma registry from the Muhimbili Orthopaedic Institute (MOI) in Tanzania, a national referral center for spinal injuries. Patient sociodemographic characteristics, injury level, and severity were compared across mechanisms of injury. Neurological improvement, neurological deterioration, and mortality were compared between those sustaining TSI through an RTA versus non-RTA, using univariable and multivariable analyses. RESULTS: A total of 626 patients were included, of which 302 (48%) were RTA-related. The median age was 34 years, and 532 (85%) were male. RTAs had a lower male preponderance compared to non-RTA causes (238/302, 79% vs. 294/324, 91%, p<0.001) and a higher proportion of cervical injuries (144/302, 48% vs. 122/324, 38%, p<0.001). No significant differences between RTA and non-RTA mechanisms were found in injury severity, time to admission, length of hospital stay, surgical intervention, neurological outcomes, or in-hospital mortality. Improved neurological outcomes were associated with incomplete injuries (AIS B-D), while higher mortality rates were linked to cervical injuries and complete (AIS A) injuries. CONCLUSION: Our study in urban Tanzania finds no significant differences in outcomes between spinal injuries from road traffic accidents (RTAs) and non-RTA causes, suggesting the need for equitable resource allocation in spine trauma programs. Highlighting the critical link between cervical injuries and increased mortality, our findings call for targeted interventions across all causes of traumatic spinal injuries (TSI). We advocate for a comprehensive trauma care system that merges efficient pre-hospital care, specialized treatment, and prevention measures, aiming to enhance outcomes and ensure equity in trauma care in low- and middle-income countries.

Evaluation of traumatic spinal injuries: a pediatric perspective.

PURPOSE: The aim of the present study is to provide information about pediatric patients with spinal trauma. METHODS: A single-center retrospective chart review was carried out. Children who arrived at the pediatric emergency department due to trauma and those with spinal pathology confirmed by radiological assessment were included. Demographics, mechanisms of trauma, clinical findings, radiological investigations, applied treatments, hospital stay and prognosis were recorded. RESULTS: A total of 105 patients [59 (56.2%) boys; mean age: 12.9 ± 3.8 years (mean ± SD)] were included. The most common age group was that of 14-18 years (58.1%). The three most common trauma mechanisms were road traffic collisions (RTCs) (60.0%), falls (32.4%), and diving into water (2.9%). A fracture of the spine was detected in 97.1% patients, vertebral dislocation in 10.7%, and spinal cord injury in 16.3%. Of the patients, 36.9% were admitted to the ward and 18.4% to the pediatric intensive care unit; 17.1% were discharged with severe complications and 2.9% cases resulted in death. While 34.3% of the patients had a clinically isolated spine injury, the remaining cases entailed an injury to at least one other body part; the most common associated injuries were to the head (39.8%), abdomen (36.1%), and external areas (28.0%). CONCLUSION: Spinal trauma was found to have occurred mostly in adolescent males, and the majority of those cases were due to RTCs. Data on the incidence and demographic factors of pediatric spinal trauma are crucial in furthering preventive measures, allowing for the identification of at-risk populations and treatment modalities.

The changing epidemiology of traumatic spine injuries: a trends analysis of 26 years of patients at a major level 1 trauma center in the United States.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Traumatic spinal injuries (TSI) are associated with high morbidity, mortality, and resource utilization. The epidemiology of TSI varies greatly across different countries and regions and is impacted by national income levels, infrastructure, and cultural factors. Further, there may be changes over time. It is essential to investigate TSI to gain useful epidemiologic information. However, there have been no recent studies on trends for TSI in the US, despite the changing population demographics, healthcare policy, and technology. As a result, reexamination is warranted to reflect how the modern era has affected the epidemiology of US spine trauma patients and their management. PURPOSE: To determine epidemiologic trends in traumatic spine injuries over time. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: Retrospective analysis; level 1 trauma center in the United States. PATIENT SAMPLE: A total of 21,811 patients, between the years of 1996 and 2022, who presented with traumatic spine injury. OUTCOME MEASURES: Age, sex, race, Injury Severity Score, mechanism of injury, injury diagnosis, injury level, rate of operative intervention, hospital length of stay, intensive care unit length of stay, discharge disposition, in-hospital mortality. METHODS: Data was collected from our institutional trauma registry over a 26-year period. Inclusion criteria involved at least one diagnosis of vertebral fracture, spinal cord injury, spinal subluxation, or intervertebral disc injury. Exclusion criteria consisted of patients with no diagnosed spine injury or a diagnosis of strain only. A total of 21,811 patients were included in the analysis. Descriptive statistics were tabulated and ordinary least squares linear regression was conducted for trends analysis. RESULTS: Regression analysis showed a significant upward trend in patient age (+13.83 years, ß=+0.65/year, p<.001), female sex (+2.7%, ß=+0.18%/year, p=.004), falls (+10.5%, ß=+0.82%/year, p<.001), subluxations (+12.8%, ß=+0.35%/year, p<.001), thoracic injuries (+1.5%, ß=+0.28%/year, p<.001), and discharges to subacute rehab (+15.9%, ß=+0.68%/year, p<.001). There was a significant downward trend in motor vehicle crashes (-7.8%, ß=-0.47%/year, p=.016), firearms injuries (-3.4%, ß=-0.19%/year, p<.001), sports/recreation injuries (-2.9%, ß=-0.18%/year, p<.001), spinal cord injuries (-11.25%, ß=-0.37%, p<.001), complete spinal cord injuries (-7.6%, ß=-0.24%/year, p<.001), and discharges to home (+4.5%, ß=-0.27%/year, p=.011). CONCLUSIONS: At our institution, the average spine trauma patient has trended toward older females. Falls represent an increasing proportion of the mechanism of injury, on a trajectory to become the most common cause. With time, there have been fewer spinal cord injuries and a lower proportion of complete injuries. At discharge, there has been a surge in the utilization of subacute rehabilitation facilities. Overall, there has been no significant change in injury severity, rate of operative intervention, length of stay, or mortality.

Multi-institutional review of characteristics and management of gunshot wounds to the spine.

BACKGROUND CONTEXT: Gunshot wounds (GSWs) to the vertebral column represent an important cause of morbidity and mortality in the United States, constituting approximately 20% of all spinal injuries. The management of these injuries is an understudied and controversial topic, given its heterogeneity and lack of follow-up data. PURPOSE: To characterize the management and follow-up of GSWs to the spine. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING: A multi-institutional retrospective review of the experience of two urban Level 1 trauma centers. PATIENT SAMPLE: Patients with GSWs to the spine between 2010-2021. OUTCOME MEASURES: Measures included work status, follow-up healthcare utilization, and pain management were collected. METHODS: Charts were reviewed for demographics, injury characteristics, surgery and medical management, and follow-up. Statistical analysis included T-tests and ANOVA for comparisons of continuous variables and chi-square testing for categorical variables. All statistics were performed on SPSS v24 (IBM, Armonk, NY). RESULTS: A total of 271 patients were included for analysis. The average age was 28 years old, 82.7% of patients were black, 90% were male, and 76.4% had Medicare/Medicaid. The thoracic spine (35%) was most commonly injured followed by lumbar (33.9%) and cervical (25.6%). Cervical GSW was associated with higher mortality (p<.001); 8.7% of patients developed subsequent osteomyelitis/discitis, 71.3% received prophylactic antibiotics, and 56.1% of cervical GSW had a confirmed vertebral or carotid artery injury. ASIA scores at presentation were most commonly A (26.9%), D (20.7%), or E (19.6%), followed by C (7.4%) and B (6.6%). 18.8% of patients were unable to be assessed at presentation. ASIA score declined in only 2 patients, while 15.5% improved over their hospital stay. Those who improved were more likely to have ASIA B injury (p<.001). Overall, 9.2% of patients underwent spinal surgery. Of these, 33% presented as ASIA A, 21% as ASIA B, 29% as ASIA C, and 13% as ASIA D. Surgery was not associated with an improvement in ASIA score. CONCLUSIONS: Given the ubiquitous and heterogeneous experience with GSWs to the spine, rigorous attempts should be made to define this population and its clinical and surgical outcomes. Here, we present an analysis of 11 years of patients presenting to two large trauma centers to elucidate patterns in presentation, management, and follow-up. We highlight that GSWs to the cervical spine are most often seen in young black male patients. They were associated with high mortality and high rates of injury to vertebral arteries and that surgical intervention did not alter rates of discitis/osteomyelitis or propensity for neurologic recovery; moreover, there was no incidence of delayed spinal instability in the study population.

Epidemiology of Spinal Trauma and Related Complication.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic spinal injury is leading cause of mortality and morbidity among the people of productive age group. This study aim to find the cause of spinal injury, site ,and mode of injury, treatment option given so that a preventive measures and create awareness among people of this region. METHODS: This is a prospective observation study done in Karnali Academy of Health Sciences from December 2021 to January 2023. Performa was filled to collect data. Data were entered in excel sheet and transported to SPSS 16.0 and statistical analysis was done . RESULTS: Out of 117 patients male population had higher incidence of spinal trauma (69.2%) with average age 43.9 years . Fall injury was the commonest mode of injury. 65.8% had injury at the thoracolumbar junction followed by lumbar, thoracic and cervical respectively. Cervical injury patients had higher incidence of neurological deficit. The average duration of trauma to hospital presentation was 10.9±11.2 hours. 19.7 % were operated and 6.8 % of patients were referred to other center. CONCLUSIONS: Fall injury being the commonest mode of injury in this art of world, prevention and awareness should be raised about the spinal trauma and its consequences. Adequate equipment with health facilities to the distant hospital may reduce the referral rate and duration of presentation to the hospital which ultimately prevent the further damage to the cord.

Respiratory Morbidity and Mortality of Traumatic Cervical Spinal Injury.

BACKGROUND: Traumatic cervical spinal injuries can severely affect respiratory function and cause significant morbidity and mortality. The typical respiratory morbidity in cervical spine injury is Atelectasis, Ventilator-associated pneumonia, acute respiratory distress syndrome and delayed weaning, etc. The study aims to see the prevalence of respiratory morbidity as well as mortality associated with cervical spine injury. METHODS: Cross sectional study based on retrospective data was conducted on the X Sciences with the existing hospital record during the period of 3 years to find out the prevalence respiratory morbidity like Ventilatory Associated Pneumonia, delayed weaning, ARDS, atelectasis of traumatic cervical spine injury, determine the prevalence, type, and impact of respiratory morbidity and mortality in this population. RESULTS: Total no 76 patients data meeting the inclusion criteria included in study. Male patients were more prone to develop traumatic cervical spinal injuries (SCI). The prevalence of respiratory morbidity in term of VAP(57.89), delayed weaning(46.05) and Atelectasis(22.36) was high. Patients with Asia A Neurology has higher association for VAP and delayed weaning, while Asia E Neurology patients had no respiratory morbidity. The study found a significant positive association between respiratory morbidity with hospital stay, and ventilator days (p-value: 0.019 and 0.048). A total of 15 patients died, 28.95% were discharged on request and 40.8% leaving the hospital against medical advice. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of respiratory morbidity higher in cervical spine injury. Furthermore, it has associated with prolonged ICU and ventilator days and increase in mortality.

Analysis of Neurosurgical Injuries and The Lessons Learned After the Catastrophic Double Earthquakes in Turkey.

AIM: To identify the patterns and types of neuorosurgical injuries sustained by victims of the double earthquakes affected ten cities with a population of 15 million in southern and central Türkiye. MATERIAL AND METHODS: In this descriptive observational study, we retrospectively analyzed the medical records of a university hospital located in one of the ten cities affected by the earthquake. RESULTS: A total of 1,612 patients with earthquake-related injuries were admitted during the study period, of which 139 (8.6%) had neurosurgical injuries. The mean age of the patients was 42.4 ± 21.1 years (median, 42 years), and 53.2% of them were female. Of the 139 patients with neurosurgical injuries, 41 (29.5%) had craniocerebral injuries, 95 (68.3%) had spinal injuries, and three (2.2%) had both craniocerebral and spinal injuries. A total of 31 surgeries were performed (22.3%) (five [3.6%] for craniocerebral injuries and 26 [18.7 %] for spinal injuries). Ninety-eight patients (70.5%) had concomitant systemic traumas. The overall mortality rate was 5.75%, with crush syndrome (n=4, 50%), being the leading cause of death, followed by neurosurgical pathologies (n=3, 37.5%) and pneumonia with septic shock (n=1, 12.5%). CONCLUSION: Neurosurgical injury is an important cause of post-earthquake mortality and morbidity. To ensure efficient medical rescue and judicious resource allocation, it is essential to recognize the characteristics of earthquake-related neurosurgical injuries. This study provides valuable information regarding the incidence, characteristics, and outcomes of neurosurgical injuries in earthquake-affected patients. Our findings highlight the need for prompt diagnosis and management of such injuries, particularly in those with concomitant systemic trauma.

Incidence, prevalence, and causes of spinal injuries in China, 1990-2019: Findings from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2019.

BACKGROUND: Spinal injuries are an urgent public health priority; nevertheless, no China-wide studies of these injuries exist. This study measured the incidence, prevalence, causes, regional distribution, and annual trends of spinal injuries in China from 1990 to 2019. METHODS: We used data from the Global Burden of Diseases, Injuries, and Risk Factors Study 2019 to estimate the incidence and prevalence of spinal injuries in China. The data of 33 provincial-level administrative regions (excluding Taiwan, China) provided by the National Center for Chronic and Noncommunicable Disease Control and Prevention, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) were use to systematically analyze the provincial etiology, geographical distribution, and annual trends of spinal injuries. The Bayesian meta-regression tool DisMod-MR 2.1 was used to ensure the consistency among incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates in each case. RESULTS: From 1990 to 2019, the number of living patients with spinal injuries in China increased by 138.32%, from 2.14 million to 5.10 million, while the corresponding age-standardized prevalence increased from 0.20% (95% uncertainty interval [UI]: 0.18-0.21%) to 0.27% (95% UI: 0.26-0.29%). The incidence of spinal injuries in China increased by 89.91% (95% UI: 72.39-107.66%), and the prevalence increased by 98.20% (95% UI: 89.56-106.82%), both the most significant increases among the G20 countries; 71.00% of the increase could be explained by age-specific prevalence. In 2019, the incidence was 16.47 (95% UI: 12.08-22.00, per 100,000 population), and the prevalence was 358.30 (95% UI: 333.96-386.62, per 100,000 population). Based on the data of 33 provincial-level administrative regions provided by CDC, age-standardized incidence and prevalence were both highest in developed provinces in Eastern China. The primary causes were falls and road injuries; however, the prevalence and specific causes differed across provinces. CONCLUSIONS: In China, the overall disease burden of spinal injuries increased significantly during the past three decades but varied considerably according to geographical location. The primary causes were falls and road injuries; however, the prevalence and specific causes differed across provinces.

Adverse events after surgery for injuries to the subaxial cervical spine: analysis of incidence and risk factors.

PURPOSE: To determine the incidence of severe surgical adverse events (sSAE) after surgery of patients with subaxial cervical spine injury (sCS-Fx) and to identify patient, treatment, and injury-related risk factors. METHODS: Retrospective analysis of clinical and radiological data of sCS-Fx patients treated surgically between 2010 and 2020 at a single national trauma center. Baseline characteristics of demographic data, preexisting conditions, treatment, and injury morphology were extracted. Incidences of sSAEs within 60 days after surgery were analyzed. Univariate analysis and binary logistic regression for the occurrence of one or more sSAEs were performed to identify risk factors. P-values < .05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: Two hundred and ninety-two patients were included. At least one sSAE occurred in 49 patients (16.8%). Most frequent were sSAEs of the surgical site (wound healing disorder, infection, etc.) affecting 29 patients (9.9%). Independent potential risk factors in logistic regression were higher age (OR 1.02 [1.003-1.04], p = .022), the presence of one or more modifiers in the AO Spine Subaxial Injury Classification (OR 2.02 [1.03-3.96], p = .041), and potentially unstable or unstable facet injury (OR 2.49 [1.24-4.99], p = .010). Other suspected risk factors were not statistically significant, among these Injury Severity Score, the need for surgery for concomitant injuries, the primary injury type according to AO Spine, and preexisting medical conditions. CONCLUSION: sSAE rates after treatment of sCS-Fx are high. The identified risk factors are not perioperatively modifiable, but their knowledge should guide intra and postoperative care and surgical technique.

Our experience with the surgical management of lower cervical spine fractures: fifty case series.

PURPOSE: Trauma to the lower cervical spine is a serious lesion due to its neurological consequences which jeopardize the vital and functional prognosis. They constitute a public health problem due to their frequency and seriousness requiring rapid and adequate treatment. The aim of our study is to (1) describe the epidemiological, clinical, and radiological characteristics of lower cervical spine trauma patients; (2) support the therapeutic management of these patients and show our experience in surgery for lower cervical spine trauma; and (3) analyze the anatomical and functional results and discuss them with literature data. METHODS: This is a retrospective descriptive study of 50 patients with lower cervical spine trauma treated surgically over a period of five years from January 1, 2016, to December 2020. RESULTS: The average age of our patients was 34.5 years, with a sex ratio of 1.7. The etiologies are dominated by accidents on public roads (58%). They show neurological disorders such as spinal cord damage in 30% of cases and root damage in 20% of cases. The radiological assessment revealed eight tear drops, ten comminuted fractures, 12 severe sprains, 12 biarticular dislocations, six uniarticular dislocations, and two herniated discs. Treatment was surgical in all patients with an anterolateral approach and anterior arthrodesis. The evolution was favourable in 21 patients and stationary in 29 patients. CONCLUSION: Our study concluded that dislocations and fracture dislocations were the predominant type of injury in cases of AVP. Tetraplegia was mainly observed with uni- and biarticular dislocations. The variation in consolidation time was not correlated with trauma-to-surgery time. Better neurological recovery was observed with mild initial neurological damage than with initially severe damage. The appearance of an adjacent syndrome is less frequent with monosegmental arthrodesis than with multisegmental arthrodesis. Cage arthrodesis was an alternative to iliac harvesting with similar results.

Falls from Trees in Coastal Karnataka: A Neglected Cause of Polytrauma in Lower-Middle-Income Countries of Similar Agroforestry.

INTRODUCTION: Falls are the second most common cause of injury associated with mortality worldwide and an important type of blunt trauma, which forms a significant percentage of traumatic accidents and emergency department admissions. Falling from a tree is an important problem because of its effect on one's health owing to infirmity caused by injuries, most commonly spinal injuries, and the economic burden that accompanies it. METHODS: A retrospective chart analysis was performed including all the patients with falls from heights who presented to a tertiary care hospital in South India during the summer months of 2018, 2019, and 2020. A structured case record form was used to capture information such as basic demographics, tree species, reason for climbing the tree, and mode of fall, along with the clinical profile, and outcomes from the cases selected from the emergency department registers and cross verified using ICD codes. RESULTS: Despite the existing lockdown due to COVID, an unusual increase in the number of patients getting admitted to the triage with a fall from tree was noted in the year 2020 compared to 2019 and 2018. The most common type of injuries sustained were spinal injuries. Burst fractures were leading types of fractures in the patients with spinal injury. The second most common type of injuries involved were of extremities, with lower extremities more than upper extremities. Two patients had inhospital mortality within 30 days. CONCLUSIONS: Falls from a tree are a neglected and preventable mechanism of trauma with a significant socio-economic impact, as most of the patients are young or middle aged earning members of their families. The burden of this mode of injury is primarily on rural and agricultural communities. Pre-hospital services in areas with vast agroforestry cultivation require dedicated first response clinics. Lockdowns and geographic isolation during disasters or disease outbreaks must also factor in a supply of essential commodities and warrant treatment on an urgent basis to reduce the need and risk of injury from forestry and agricultural activities.

Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury among Patients Admitted to the Spine Unit in a Tertiary Care Centre.

Introduction: Spinal cord injury usually results in disabling conditions. The incidence of spinal trauma is region-specific due to unique geography and demography. The epidemiology of spinal trauma changes with economic and social factors even in different periods. The aim of this study was to find out the prevalence of traumatic spinal cord injury among patients admitted to the Spine Unit in a tertiary care centre. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was done in a tertiary care centre among patients admitted to the Spine Unit from 1 January 2022 to 31 December 2022 after receiving ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee. Demographic details, mode of injury, level of injuries, neurological grading at the time of admission using American Spinal Injury Association grading, management methods, and complication if any were recorded. A convenience sampling method was used. The point estimate was calculated at a 95% Confidence Interval. Results: Out of 465 patients, the prevalence of traumatic spinal cord injury was 316 (67.95%) (63.72-72.20, 95% Confidence Interval). A total of 243 (76.89%) cases were due to falls. The mean age of patients was 43.13±16.55 years. Conclusions: The prevalence of traumatic spinal cord injury patients was lower than the other studies done in similar settings. Keywords: falls; prevalence; spinal cord injuries.

Epidemiological profile of patients with vertebral trauma at a reference center in the Amazon / Perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com trauma vertebral em um centro de referência da Amazônia / Perfil epidemiológico de pacientes con trauma vertebral en un centro de referencia en la Amazonia

ABSTRACT Objective To analyze the epidemiological profile of patients with vertebral trauma treated at a medical reference center at the state of Pará, Northern Brazil. Methods A quantitative and retrospective study conducted at Hospital Metropolitano de Urgência e Emergência (HMUE) in Ananindeua, Northern Brazil, from January 2020 to March 2020, using medical records of patients admitted to the hospital from January 2018 to December 2019. Results Data from 270 medical records from the orthopedic and trauma sector of the hospital were analyzed. Conclusion The predominant profile was male patients, aged between 20 and 29 years, with low social conditions, presenting compressive lesions of lumbar vertebrae, submitted to conservative intervention, with hospital stays of 8 to 30 days, and evolving to complete recovery without sequelae. Level of evidence II; Retrospective Study.

RESUMO Objetivo Analisar o perfil epidemiológico de pacientes com trauma vertebral atendidos em centro médico de referência no estado do Pará, norte do Brasil. Métodos Estudo quantitativo e retrospectivo realizado no Hospital Metropolitano de Urgência e Emergência (HMUE), em Ananindeua, norte do Brasil, entre janeiro de 2020 e março de 2020, usando prontuários de pacientes internados entre janeiro de 2018 e dezembro de 2019. Resultados Foram analisados dados de 270 prontuários do setor de ortopedia e trauma do hospital. Conclusão O perfil predominante foi de pacientes do sexo masculino, com idade entre 20 e 29 anos, de baixa condição econômica, que apresentaram lesões compressivas em vértebras lombares, submetidos a intervenção conservadora, internação hospitalar de 8 a 30 dias, que evoluíram para recuperação completa, sem sequelas. Nível de evidência II; Estudo Retrospectivo.

RESUMEN Objetivo Analizar el perfil epidemiológico de pacientes con trauma vertebral atendidos en un centro médico de referencia en el estado de Pará, norte de Brasil. Métodos Estudio cuantitativo y retrospectivo realizado en el Hospital Metropolitano de Urgência e Emergência, en Ananindeua, norte de Brasil, entre enero de 2020 y marzo de 2020, que utilizando historias clínicas de pacientes ingresados en el hospital de enero de 2018 a diciembre de 2019. Resultados Se analizaron los datos de 270 historias clínicas del sector de ortopedia y traumatología del hospital. Conclusión El perfil predominante fue de pacientes del sexo masculino entre 20 y 29 años, de bajas condiciones económicas, que presentaban lesiones compresivas en las vértebras lumbares, sometidos a intervención conservadora, con estancias hospitalarias de 8 a 30 días que evolucionaron hacia recuperación completa sin secuelas. Nivel de evidencia II; Estudio Retrospectivo.

Frequência, caracterização e fatores associados à ocorrência de fraturas na coluna vertebral de suínos abatidos em Uberlândia - MG / Frequency, characterization and factors associated with occurrence of fractures in the vertebral column of swine in Uberlândia - MG

A ocorrência de fratura em coluna vertebral de suínos representa uma grande preocupação para a indústria pois resulta em condenação de partes da carcaça durante a toalete. Desse modo, o objetivo do trabalho foi avaliar fatores que influenciam a ocorrência destas fraturas em suínos abatidos em Uberlândia-MG. Foram coletadas informações sobre a origem dos animais, peso, conformidade da eletrocussão e localização da fratura de 745 suínos. Do total analisado, 274 (36,8%) apresentaram fratura, em sua maioria na posição medial (80,2%). Dentre os fatores analisados, o único que influenciou a ocorrência de fraturas vertebrais foi a origem dos animais (P<0,05). Conclui-se que a origem dos animais exerce influência sobre a ocorrência de fraturas de coluna em suínos e estudos subsequentes podem ajudar a justificar esta relação.

Frequency of vertebral fractures in high-energy trauma / Frequência de fraturas vertebrais em trauma de alta energia / Frecuencia de las fracturas vertebrales en trauma de alta energía

ABSTRACT Objective: Traumatic injuries due to accidents are the leading causes of death and disability in the population of young adults in many countries. Spinal fractures are among the multiple injuries by traumatic mechanisms. The incidence of these injuries is estimated between 8,000 and 16,000 new cases per year and are associated with high-energy trauma. Methods: Retrospective, cross-sectional, descriptive study conducted at the Hospital Central Cruz Roja Mexicana. We reviewed 68 medical records of patients admitted to the emergency department of that hospital and were diagnosed with some type of traumatic vertebral fracture associated with high-energy trauma. Results: The sample consisted of 53 men and 15 women, of whom 11 patients with cervical spine injury, 2 with cervicothoracic injury, 16 with thoracic injury, five with thoracolumbar fracture and 34 with lumbar injury. Conclusions: The lumbar spine is more prone to suffer injuries by high-energy mechanism, followed by the thoracic and cervical spine, respectively. The thoracolumbar junction is more frequently affected than the cervicothoracic junction in a ratio of 2:1. Level of Evidence II; Retrospective studyf.

RESUMO Objetivo: Lesões traumáticas devido a acidentes estão entre as principais causas de morte e incapacidade na população de adultos jovens em muitos países. As fraturas ao nível da coluna vertebral estão entre as múltiplas lesões causadas por mecanismos traumáticos. A incidência dessas lesões é estimada entre 8.000 e 16.000 novos casos por ano, associados com um mecanismo de alta energia. Método: Estudo descritivo, transversal, retrospectivo, realizado no Hospital Central da Cruz Vermelha Mexicana. Foram revisados 68 registros clínicos dos pacientes, que entraram na área de emergência do Hospital Central da Cruz Vermelha Mexicana, diagnosticados com algum tipo de fratura vertebral traumática associada a traumas de alta energia. Resultados: 53 homens e 15 mulheres. 11 pacientes com lesões ao nível da coluna cervical, dois com lesões na região cérvicotorácica, 16 com lesões torácicas, cinco com fraturas na região toracolombar e 34 com lesões na coluna lombar. Conclusões: A coluna lombar é mais propensa a sofrer alguma lesão por um mecanismo de alta energia, seguido pela coluna torácica e a cervical, respectivamente. A junção toracolombar é mais frequentemente afetada que a junção cervicotorácica na proporção de 2:1. Nível de Evidencia II; Estudo retrospectivof.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Las lesiones traumáticas por accidentes son las primeras causas de muerte e incapacidad en la población de adultos jóvenes en numerosos países. Entre las múltiples lesiones por mecanismos traumáticos se encuentran las fracturas de columna vertebral. La incidencia a de estas lesiones se estima entre 8.000 y 16.000 casos nuevos por año y son asociados a trauma de alta energía. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, transversal, descriptivo realizado en el Hospital Central Cruz Roja Mexicana. Se revisaron 68 expedientes clínicos de pacientes que ingresaron al departamento de urgencias de ese hospital y se diagnosticaron con algún tipo de fractura vertebral traumática asociada a trauma de alta energía. Resultados: La muestra se compuso de 53 hombres y 15 mujeres, de los cuales 11 pacientes con lesión de columna cervical, dos con lesión cervicotorácica, 16 con lesión torácica, cinco con fractura toracolumbar y 34 con lesión lumbar. Conclusiones: La columna lumbar es más propensa a sufrir lesiones por mecanismo de alta energía, seguida de la columna torácica y la cervical, respectivamente. La unión toracolumbar se afecta con mayor frecuencia que la unión cervicotorácica, en proporción de 2:1.Nivel de Evidencia II; Estudio retrospectivof.

Epidemiological panorama of orthopedic spine pathology in mexico / Panorama epidemiológico da patologia ortopédica da coluna espinal no méxico / Panorama epidemiológico de la patología ortopédica de columna vertebral en méxico

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the epidemiology of orthopedic spine pathology in a national reference hospital in Mexico. Methods: Retrospective, observational and cross-sectional study, using the database and hospitalization census of the orthopedic spine service from January 2009 to December 2016. The data analysis was performed with SPSS version 22 measuring the central frequency and percentages. The demographic variables age and sex, and those related to the diagnosis, type of pathology, affected segment and degrees of affection were obtained. The sampling technique was non-probabilistic sampling by convenience of consecutive cases. Results: We analyzed 7,771 cases: 50.34% males, with a mean age of 53.51 years. The prevalence of the most frequent diseases in hospitalized patients was stenosis of the lumbar canal with 25.85% (1,834 patients), followed by lumbar disc herniation (23.12%), spondylolisthesis (22.63%), cervical spondylotic myelopathy (8.76%), lumbar pain and lumbosciatalgia (4.10%), cervical disc herniation (3.96%), primary infection (3.80%), loosening of material (3.16%), spinal tumors (2.53%) and cervical instability (2.04%). Conclusions: This is the largest series of cases of spinal pathology treated in a hospital in Latin America. The most frequent condition was the stenosis of the lumbar canal, the most affected segment was the lumbar, and the most affected age group was 51 to 60 years. The estimate is an increase in the incidence of spinal diseases, so it is necessary to identify the risk factors and the behavior of each disease for its prevention. Level of Evidence IV; Retrospective, observational and descriptive study.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar a epidemiología da patologia da coluna ortopédica em um hospital de referência nacional no México. Métodos: Um estudo retrospectivo, observacional e transversal, utilizando o banco de dados e o recenseamento hospitalar do serviço de orelha ortopédica de janeiro de 2009 a dezembro de 2016. A análise de dados foi realizada através da SPSS versão 22 usando medidas de frequência central e porcentagens. As variáveis demográficas idade e gênero, e aqueles relacionados ao diagnóstico, tipo de patologia, segmento afetado e graus de carinho foram obtidos. A técnica de amostragem foi por conveniência e não probabilística de casos consecutivos. Resultados: Analisamos 7771 casos: 50,34% do sexo masculino, com idade média de 53,51 anos. A prevalência das doenças mais frequentes em pacientes hospitalizados foi a conduta lombar estreita, com 25,85% (1834 pacientes), seguida de hérnia de disco lombar (23,12%), espondilolistese (22,63%), mielopatia espondilótica cervical (8,76%), lombo e lomossocialgia (4,10%), hérnia de disco e infecção primária cervical (3,96%, 3,80%), afrouxamento do material (3,16%), tumores espinhais (2,53%) e instabilidade cervical (2,04%). Conclusões: Este é o maior número de casos da patologia da coluna com tratamento hospitalar na América Latina. O estado mais comum era o canal lombar da coluna vertebral, o segmento lombar é o mais afetado e o grupo de idade mais afetado é de 51 a 60 anos. Um aumento na incidência de doenças da coluna vertebral está previsto, de modo que é necessário identificar os fatores de risco e o comportamento de cada condição para a prevenção. Nível de Evidência IV; Estudo retrospectivo, observacional e descritivo.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Conocer la epidemiologia de la patología ortopédica de columna vertebral en un hospital de referencia nacional en México. Métodos: Se realizó un estudio retrospectivo, observacional y transversal, utilizando la base de datos y censos de hospitalización del servicio de columna ortopédica de enero de 2009 a diciembre de 2016. Se realizó el análisis de datos mediante SPSS versión 22, utilizando medidas de frecuencia central y porcentajes. Se obtuvieron las variables demográficas edad y sexo, y las relacionadas con el diagnóstico, tipo de patología, segmento afectado y grados de afección. La técnica de muestreo fue por conveniencia y no probabilística de casos consecutivos. Resultados: Se analizaron 7.771 casos: 50,34% del sexo masculino, con un promedio de edad de 53,51 años. La prevalencia de las enfermedades más frecuentes en los pacientes hospitalizados fue el conducto lumbar estrecho con 25,85% (1.834 pacientes), seguido de hernia discal lumbar (23,12%), espondilolistesis (22,63%), mielopatía espondilótica cervical (8,76%), lumbalgias y lumbociatalgias (4,10%), hernia discal cervical (3,96%), infección primaria (3,80%), aflojamiento de material (3,16%), tumores espinales (2,53%) e inestabilidad cervical (2,04%). Conclusiones: Esta es la mayor serie de casos de patología de columna con tratamiento hospitalario en América Latina. El padecimiento más frecuente fue el conducto lumbar estrecho, el segmento más afectado el lumbar, y el grupo etario más aquejado el de 51 a 60 años. Se predice un incremento en la incidencia de las enfermedades de columna vertebral, por lo que es necesario identificar los factores de riesgo y el comportamiento de cada padecimiento para su prevención. Nivel de Evidencia IV; Estudio retrospectivo, observacional y descriptivo.

Profile of spinal cord trauma victims treated at a reference unit in são paulo / Perfil das vítimas de trauma raquimedular atendidas em uma unidade de referência de são paulo / Perfil de las víctimas de trauma raquimedular atendidas en una unidad de referencia de são paulo

ABSTRACT Introduction: Spinal cord trauma (SCT) is an important cause of morbidity and mortality around the world. It affects different age groups, especially young adults who are victims of high-energy trauma. The most effective way to reduce the incidence of spinal cord trauma and its consequences is through preventive campaigns and control and surveillance measures through public agencies. The objective of this study is to outline the epidemiological profile of patients with spinal cord trauma attended at a tertiary care center in the city of São Paulo. Methods: Retrospective, cross-sectional study performed at a reference center for the care of patients with spinal cord injury in the State of São Paulo. Data were collected from the medical records of patients with spinal cord trauma between 2012 and 2016. Results: Of the 515 patients with spinal trauma, 153 (29.7%) had spinal cord injury of which 131 (85.62%) were male, and 22 (14.37%) were female, in a ratio of approximately 6:1. The mean age was 39.45 years. The main cause of spinal cord trauma observed was the fall from heights, with 72 cases (47.05%), and 52.94% were classified as Frankel A. Conclusions: The results showed that the majority of the patients were young, economically active, with low educational level, exposed to accidents that could be largely avoided. Most of these patients also had severe disabling injuries, which usually bring considerable psychological sequelae and economic consequences to the individual and to society. Level of evidence: IV. Type of study: Case series.

RESUMO Introdução: O traumatismo raquimedular (TRM) é uma importante causa de morbi-mortalidade ao redor mundo. Acomete diferentes faixas etárias, principalmente os adultos jovens vítimas de trauma de alta energia. A forma mais eficaz de diminuir a incidência do traumatismo raquimedular e suas consequências é através de campanhas preventivas e medidas de controle e fiscalização através dos órgãos públicos. O objetivo deste estudo é traçar o perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes vítimas de traumatismo raquimedular, atendidos em um centro de atendimento terciário da cidade de São Paulo. Métodos: Estudo retrospectivo, transversal, realizado em um centro de referência de atendimento de pacientes vítimas de traumatismo raquimedular do estado de São Paulo. Os dados foram colhidos dos prontuários dos pacientes vítimas de traumatismo raquimedular entre os anos de 2012 a 2016. Resultados: Dos 515 pacientes vítimas de traumatismo da coluna espinhal, 153 (29,7%) apresentaram traumatismo raquimedular. 131 (85,62%) foram do sexo masculino, 22 (14,37%) foram pacientes do sexo feminino, em uma relação de aproximadamente 6:1. A média de idade foi de 39 a 45 anos. A principal causa de trauma raquimedular observada foi a queda de altura, com 72 casos (47,05%). 52,94% dos pacientes apresentaram-se em Frankel A. Conclusão: Os resultados mostraram que a maioria dos pacientes eram de jovens, economicamente ativos, com baixo nível educacional, expostos a acidentes que, em grande parte, poderiam ser evitados. A maioria destes pacientes também apresentou lesões graves, incapacitantes, que costumam trazer sequelas psíquicas e econômicas consideráveis para o indivíduo e para a sociedade. Nível de Evidência: IV. Tipo de estudo: Série de Casos.

RESUMEN Introducción: El trauma raquimedular (TRM) es una causa importante de morbidad y mortalidad en todo el mundo. Afecta a diferentes grupos de edad, especialmente los adultos jóvenes que son víctimas de traumas de alta energía. La forma más efectiva de reducir la incidencia de traumatismos de la médula espinal y sus consecuencias es a través de campañas de prevención y medidas de control y vigilancia de agencias públicas. El objetivo de este estudio es delinear el perfil epidemiológico de los pacientes con trauma raquimedular atendidos en un centro de atención terciaria en la ciudad de São Paulo. Métodos: Estudio retrospectivo, transversal realizado en un centro de referencia para el cuidado de los pacientes con trauma raquimedular en el Estado de São Paulo. Los datos se obtuvieron de las historias clínicas de pacientes con traumatismo de la médula espinal entre 2012 y 2016. Resultados: De los 515 pacientes con trauma raquimedular, 153 (29,7%) tenían lesiones de la médula espinal, de los cuales 131 (85,62%) eran hombres y 22 (14,37%) eran mujeres, en una proporción de aproximadamente 6:1. La edad media fue de 39,45 años. La principal causa de trauma raquimedular fue la caída desde la altura, con 72 casos (47,05%), y el 52,94% se clasificó como Frankel A. Conclusiones: Los resultados mostraron que la mayoría de los pacientes eran jóvenes, económicamente activos, con un bajo nivel educativo, expuestos a accidentes que podrían evitarse en gran medida. La mayoría de estos pacientes también tenían lesiones incapacitantes severas, que a menudo traen secuelas psicológicas importantes y consecuencias económicas para el individuo y la sociedad. Nivel de evidencia: IV. Tipo de estudio: Serie de casos.

Epidemiological profile of patients with traumatic spinal fracture / Perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com fratura traumática de coluna vertebral / Perfil epidemiológico de los pacientes con fractura traumática de la columna vertebral

ABSTRACT Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of patients with spinal fractures and the characteristics of the population at risk attended at a university hospital. Methods: The study population is composed of 202 patients diagnosed and treated for vertebral fracture due to trauma. The variables were correlated with each other and the correlations with p<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: The ratio of incidence of trauma between the sexes was 3:1 for males. The mean age was 37 years and the age group with the highest incidence was between 20 and 39 years. Traffic accidents were the most frequent mechanism (51.2%) and secondly, falls (33.2%). There was a statistical correlation between trauma mechanisms to age group and region of the spine. The first lumbar vertebra (L1) fracture alone accounted for 21.5% of all cases studied associated with the fall mechanism. Spinal cord injury was recorded in 33.7% of the individuals in the sample. A total of 57.3% of the patients were submitted to surgical treatment and 41.7% to the conservative treatment. The mean hospitalization time was 15 days. Conclusions: Spinal fractures are important determinants of morbidity and mortality in the population with a major impact on economically active individuals, especially males. They are directly associated to traffic accidents in the young population and to falls in the higher age brackets. Primary prevention of trauma is the main mechanism for change in this scenario.

RESUMO Objetivo: Analisar o perfil epidemiológico dos pacientes com fratura da coluna vertebral e as características da população de risco atendida em um hospital universitário. Métodos: A população do estudo é composta de 202 pacientes diagnosticados e tratados por fratura de vértebras devido a trauma. As variáveis foram correlacionadas entre si e consideradas estatisticamente significantes as correlações com p < 0,05. Resultados: A relação da incidência do trauma entre os sexos foi 3:1 para o sexo masculino. A média de idade foi 37 anos e a faixa etária de maior incidência entre 20 e 39 anos. Os acidentes de trânsito foram o mecanismo de mais frequente (51,2%) e em segundo lugar, as quedas (33,2%). Houve correlação estatística dos mecanismos de trauma conforme faixa etária e região da coluna vertebral. A fratura de primeira vértebra lombar (L1) representou sozinha 21,5% de todos os casos estudados associados ao mecanismo queda. A lesão raquimedular foi registrada em 33,7% dos indivíduos da amostra. Um total de 57,3% dos pacientes foi submetido a tratamento cirúrgico e 41,7% ao conservador. O tempo de internação médio foi de 15 dias. Conclusões: As fraturas de coluna são importantes determinantes de morbidade e mortalidade da população, com impacto principal nos indivíduos economicamente ativos, sobretudo do sexo masculino. Estão diretamente associadas a acidentes de trânsito na população jovem e a quedas nas faixas etárias maiores. A prevenção primária do trauma é o principal mecanismo para mudança desse cenário.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Analizar el perfil epidemiológico de los pacientes con fractura de la columna vertebral y las características de la población de riesgo tratada en un hospital universitario. Métodos: La población del estudio está compuesta de 202 pacientes diagnosticados y tratados por fractura de vértebras debido a trauma. Las variables se correlacionaron entre sí y se consideraron estadísticamente significativas las correlaciones comp < 0,05. Resultados: La proporción de incidencia del trauma entre los sexos fue 3:1 para el sexo masculino. La edad media fue de 37 años y el rango de edad de mayor incidencia fue entre 20 y 39 años. Los accidentes de tránsito fueron el mecanismo más frecuente (51,2%) y en segundo lugar, las caídas (33,2%). Se observó correlación estadística entre los mecanismos de trauma según el grupo de edad y la región de la columna vertebral. La fractura de la primera vértebra lumbar (L1) sola representó el 21,5% de todos los casos estudiados asociados al mecanismo de caída. La lesión de la médula espinal se registró en el 33,7% de los individuos de la muestra. Un total de 57,3% de los pacientes fueron sometidos a tratamiento quirúrgico y el 41,7% al conservador. La duración promedio de la estancia hospitalaria fue de 15 días. Conclusiones: Las fracturas de columna son determinantes importantes de morbilidad y mortalidad con impacto principal en los individuos económicamente activos, sobre todo del sexo masculino. Se asocian directamente con los accidentes de tránsito en la población joven y a las caídas en los rangos de edad mayores. La prevención primaria del trauma es el principal mecanismo para cambiar este escenario.

Epidemiology of spine trauma in patients with polytrauma / Epidemiologia de trauma da coluna em pacientes com politraumatismo / Epidemiología del trauma de columna vertebral en pacientes politraumatizados

ABSTRACT Objective: To determine the epidemiology of spine trauma in patients with polytrauma. Methods: The database of the service of polyfractured patients was reviewed from January to December 2015, 334 patients in total. Among them, 56 had spinal injury, of which 38 patients were included in the study. Results: Of the patients with polytraumatism, 16.77% had spinal cord injury. Mechanism of injury: fall 63.16%, traffic accidents 21.05%, running over 10.53%. Injury conditions: occupational 36.84%, at home 23.68%, traffic accident 15.79%, public road 13.16%, motorcycle accident 5.26%, of which 13.16% had consumed alcoholic beverages. Total with neurological injury 23.68%, incomplete lesion 18.42%. Injured vertebral segment: lumbar 76.32%, thoracic 31.58%, and cervical 7.89%. Associated injuries: upper limbs 47.37%, lower limbs 42.11%, pelvis 36.84%, thorax 34.21%, craniofacial 31.58%, abdomen 21.05%. Treatment: instrumentation 71.05%, orthoses 26.32%. Infection rate of 22.22%. Conclusions: The most common mechanism of injury was falls in the working environment, almost one fourth presented neurological damage, the most affected segment was the lumbar associated with injury of the lower limbs in 50%, with one fourth of patients that undergone intervention presenting infection. It is in the workplace, at home and in the transit where preventive measures must be reinforced to reduce the incidence of injuries in working age patients.

RESUMO Objetivo: Determinar a epidemiologia de trauma de coluna em pacientes com politraumatismo. Métodos: O banco de dados do serviço de polifraturados foi revisado, de janeiro a dezembro de 2015, com 334 pacientes no total. Entre eles, 56 apresentavam lesão da coluna vertebral, dos quais 38 pacientes foram incluídos no estudo. Resultados: Dos pacientes com politraumatismo, 16,77% tinham lesão de coluna vertebral. Mecanismo da lesão: queda 63,16%, acidentes de trânsito 21,05%, atropelamento 10,53%. Condições de lesão: ocupacional 36,84%, em casa 23,68%, acidente de trânsito 15,79%, via pública 13,16%, acidente de motocicleta 5,26%, sendo que do total destes, 13,16% haviam consumido bebida alcoólica. Total com lesão neurológica 23,68%, lesão incompleta 18,42%. Segmento vertebral lesionado: lombar 76,32%, torácico 31,58%, cervical 7,89%. Lesões associadas: membros superiores 47,37%, membros inferiores 42,11%, pelve 36,84%, tórax 34,21%, craniofacial 31,58%, abdome 21,05%. Tratamento: Instrumentação 71,05%, órteses 26,32%. Taxa de infecção de 22,22%. Conclusões: O mecanismo mais comum de lesão foi a queda no ambiente de trabalho, quase um quarto apresentou danos neurológicos, o segmento mais afetado foi o lombar, associado a lesão dos membros inferiores em 50%, com um quarto dos pacientes submetidos à intervenção apresentando infecção. É no ambiente de trabalho, em casa e no trânsito, onde as medidas preventivas devem ser reforçadas para reduzir a incidência de lesões em pacientes em idade produtiva.

RESUMEN Objetivo: Conocer la epidemiología del trauma de columna en pacientes politraumatizados. Métodos: Se revisó la base de datos del servicio de polifracturados, de enero a diciembre del 2015, con 334 pacientes en total. De éstos, 56 presentaban alguna lesión en la columna vertebral, de los cuales 38 pacientes fueron captados para el estudio. Resultados: De los pacientes politraumatizados, 16,77% presentaron alguna lesión de columna. Mecanismo de lesión: caída 63,16%, accidentes de tránsito 21,05%, atropellamiento 10,53%. Condiciones de lesión: laboral 36,84%, hogar 23,68%, choque en automóvil 15,79%, vía pública 13,16%, accidente en motocicleta 5,26%, y del total de éstos, en estado etílico 13,16%. Total con lesión neurológica 23,68%, lesión incompleta 18,42%. Segmento vertebral lesionado: Lumbar 76,32%, torácico 31,58%, cervical 7,89%. Lesiones asociadas: miembros torácicos 47,37%, miembros pélvicos 42,11%, pelvis 36,84%, tórax 34,21%, craneofacial 31,58%, abdomen 21,05%. Tratamiento: Instrumentación 71,05%, ortesis 26,32%. Tasa de infección del 22,22%. Conclusiones: El mecanismo de lesión más frecuente fue caída en el ámbito laboral, casi una cuarta parte presentó daño neurológico, el segmento más afectado fue el lumbar, asociado a lesión en miembros pélvicos en el 50%, con una cuarta parte de los pacientes intervenidos cursando con infección. Es en el ámbito laboral, hogar y tránsito donde se deben reforzar las medidas preventivas para disminuir la incidencia de lesiones en pacientes en edad productiva.