Comprehensive epidemiological assessment of trauma incidents at a level I trauma center

Abstract

BACKGROUND The continuous development of social and economic progress and ongoing enhancement of infrastructure construction has led to drastic changes in the occurrence of trauma. AIM To analyze the epidemiological characteristics of trauma in Lanzhou City to provide theoretical references for improving quality of trauma care. METHODS A retrospective analysis of clinical data from 16585 trauma patients treated at the First Hospital of Lanzhou University Trauma Center from November 1, 2021 to October 31, 2023 was conducted. Data including age, sex, time of trauma, cause of trauma, and major injured body parts were statistically analyzed. RESULTS A total of 18235 patients were admitted, with complete data for 16585 cases. Of these, 9793 were male and 6792 were female (male-to-female ratio of 1.44:1). The peak times for trauma occurrence were 10 AM-12 PM and 6-10 PM, and the peak months were from May to October. The leading causes of trauma were falls (45.32%), other trauma (15.88%), road traffic accidents (15.15%), violence (10.82%), cutting/stabbing (9.41%), mechanical injuries (2.65%), winter sports injuries (0.36%), animal bites (0.22%), burns (0.09%), and electrical injuries (0.02%). The distribution of majorly injured body parts showed statistical significance, with limbs/skin being the most affected followed by the head/neck, chest/abdomen, and back. CONCLUSION Medical institutions and government agencies can implement preventive measures and policies based on the characteristics of trauma determined in this study to enhance the quality and level of trauma care.