Traumatic Spinal Injuries: An Autopsy Study at Tertiary Health Care Center of Rajasthan During the Year 2017-18

Abstract

Introduction: India is a developing country with traumatic fatalities is on the rise. Accurate injury profiles are helpful in prevention strategies as well as clinical and community services for persons suffering trauma especially of spinal region. Aim & Objectives Aim: To study the pattern of traumatic spinal injuries observed in medico-legal autopsies at S.M.S. Hospital, Jaipur during the study period 2017-18 Objectives To observe the pattern of traumatic spinal injuries. To observe survival pattern among the patients with soinal injuries To observe the demographic data of traumatic spinal injuries. Material & Method: Descriptive type of observational study of autopsy conducted at Mortuary of Department of Forensic Medicine, SMS Hospital, Jaipur from 1st April, 2017 to 31st March, 2018among Bodies with spinal injuries brought for medicolegal study during study period Observations: a total number of 150 autopsy cases were included in the study. Out of 150 cases of traumatic spinal injuries, there were 132 males (88%) and 18 females (12%). Maximum numbers of fatalities with spinal injuries were observed in 21-30 years age group (24.66%), there were 75.33% cases from rural regions unemployed (50.67%). Majority of cases suffered fatality in one to seven days after the traumatic episode (41.33% cases). Road traffic accidents were the major offenders (44.00%) in the present study followed by falls. Level of spinal injury Mid cervical 53 (35.33%). Associated vertebral injuries seen along with spinal injuries as fractures of vertebrae in 49.33% cases and fractures along with dislocations in another 49.33% cases. Suggestions:- Male of earning age group should be target group for education and awareness of spinal injuries prevention education. Mid cervical protection modalities should be deployed