1118 Epidemiology of Tibial Fractures, a UK Major Trauma Centre Perspective

Abstract

Abstract Aim There is no recent large UK-based study on the epidemiology of tibial fractures. In our study, we report incidence and factors associated with tibial fractures treated at a Level I Trauma Centre over a 7-year period. Method We gathered data on fracture locations, age, gender, BMI, Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI), and treatment options of all tibial fractures treated at a major trauma centre during the seven years from January 2015 to January 2022. The incidence of fracture types was calculated, as well as associations different fracture locations had with demographics, and their surgical managements. Results 2018 patients suffered 2103 tibial fractures during the 7 years. This is composed of 735 proximal (plateau), 775 diaphyseal, and 593 distal (Pilon and tibial ankle component) fractures occurring, with overall incidence per 100,000 patients per year being 18.4, 19.1 and 14.6, respectively. Of all fractures, the mean age, CCI score, and BMI was 46.9 years, 1.54, and 26.6, respectively. 56% were male, 26.3% were open fractures, and 52.4% were treated operatively. Proximal and distal fracture patients had higher (50.9) and lower (43.2) ages, respectively (p<0.01). Proximal and shaft fractures had lower (48.9%) and higher (61.4%) percentages of male patients. Distal (64.4%) and open (79.0%) fractures had higher rates of operative treatment, respectively. Conclusions This study describes the epidemiology and incidence of tibial fractures in the UK major trauma centre setting, and analyses the association between demographic factors, fracture location and management. This adds to the literature and allows for future comparisons between regions.