Assessing the Impact of Musculoskeletal Trauma from Road Traffic Injuries on Hospital Healthcare Systems (Code-T0179)

Introduction: Road traffic injuries (RTIs) are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, disproportionately affecting young, economically active populations. This study focuses on evaluating the healthcare burden posed by musculoskeletal (MSK) trauma caused by RTIs at a tertiary hospital in New Delhi, India.

Aims and Objectives:

Aim:

Evaluation of the burden on hospital health care system due to musculoskeletal trauma caused by road traffic injuries.

Objective

Evaluation of the following parameters of musculoskeletal trauma caused by road traffic injuries

1. To evaluate the total number of days of hospital stay required for management.
2. To study the spectrum of injuries and analyze.
3. The various surgical procedures needed for their management and the duration of utilization of the operation theater.
4. The type of non-operative treatment required for the management of these injuries.
5. To evaluate the different types of investigations needed for care of these patients.
6. To identify the factors causing prolonged hospital stay.
7. To find out the above factors in different victims, pedestrians versus vehicle occupant (driver or passenger).

Methods: A longitudinal observational study was conducted over one year, enrolling 1,000 patients with MSK trauma due to RTIs. Data were collected on demographics, injury types, treatment modalities, hospital stay durations, operation theater usage, and diagnostic investigations. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS.

Results: Most injuries occurred in males (88.4%), primarily involving the lower limbs (70.3%). Internal fixation was the most common surgical procedure (71.4%), and 27% of injuries were open fractures. The mean hospital stay was 13.85 days, with prolonged stays associated with open wounds, multiple fractures, and surgical site infections. Diagnostic and therapeutic services significantly impacted healthcare resource utilization.

Conclusion: MSK trauma from RTIs imposes a substantial burden on healthcare systems, emphasizing the need for improved trauma care protocols, resource allocation, and preventive measures. These findings can guide policymakers in planning effective interventions.

Keywords: Road traffic injuries, Musculoskeletal trauma, Healthcare burden, Hospital stay, Surgery, Resource utilization.