SP7.4 - Analyzing Geriatric Trauma Patterns: Prevalence, Injury Types, and Transfer Delays in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Abstract Aim To analyze geriatric trauma prevalence, injury pattern, transfer delays to trauma centers, and assess undertriage to non-trauma centers in Riyadh City. Method We conducted a retrospective review of 11,140 incident reports from 50 Red crescent Center in Riyadh City from the official data registry of the Red Crescent of Saudi Arabia from January 2021 to March 2023. Cases meeting "red criteria" (SBP < 110 mmHg or HR > SBP) were identified. Using QGIS, we mapped the regional distribution of dispatch and non-trauma centers. Network service zone analysis delineated level 1 and 2 trauma center service areas reachable within 15-, 30-, 45-, and 60-minute intervals. Dispatch centers were grouped to assess mistriaging of red criteria cases. Delays were defined as travel time >60 minutes to a non-trauma center. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26 and R statistics. Results Majority of geriatric trauma patients (65.6%, n=7312/11140) were classified under red criteria. Penetrating injuries were the most common (51.2%, n=5704/11140), followed by fall-related injuries (38%, n=4234/11140), and finally motor vehicle accidents (6%, n=669/11140). Among red criteria cases, majority of the patients (65.6%, n=2360/3419) transferred to level 1 and 2 trauma centers were delayed, most commonly seen in the 15-minute area of south and middle Riyadh and the 45-minute service area of northern and southern Riyadh. Nearly of quarter of the red criteria patients (23.54%, n=1721/7312) were transferred to a non-trauma center. Conclusions Addressing delays in accessing trauma centers and transfers to non-trauma facilities is imperative, warranting focused intervention. Addressing preventable delays and enhancing the capabilities of Red Crescent centers are vital for improving geriatric trauma care in Riyadh.