Publication:

Epidemiology and injury patterns of musculoskeletal trauma at a rural level II trauma centre: a prospective observational study

Background Musculoskeletal trauma represents a major cause of morbidity and disability worldwide and places a considerable burden on healthcare systems, particularly in resource-limited settings. Rural and hilly regions may demonstrate distinct injury patterns owing to environmental conditions, occupational exposure, and increasing vehicular traffic. However, prospective epidemiological data describing musculoskeletal trauma in such settings remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the demographic characteristics, mechanisms of injury, anatomical distribution, treatment modalities, and outcomes of patients presenting with musculoskeletal trauma to a Level II trauma Centre in rural North India.

Methods A prospective observational study was conducted at a Level II trauma centre serving a predominantly rural and hilly population in North India from April 2023 to March 2024. All consecutive patients presenting with musculoskeletal trauma during the study period were included. Demographic characteristics, mechanisms of injury, anatomical distribution of injuries, treatment modality, and discharge outcomes were recorded. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize injury patterns. The association between the mechanism of injury and the occurrence of fractures was analysed using odds ratios.

Results A total of 1,657 patients were included in the study. Most patients were men and belonged to the 14–44-year age group. Falls were the most common mechanism of injury, followed by road traffic accidents. Fractures constituted the majority of musculoskeletal injuries, with the upper extremity being the most frequently involved anatomical region. An analytical evaluation demonstrated that road traffic accidents were associated with a higher odd of fractures than fall-related injuries.

Conclusions These findings provide insights into musculoskeletal trauma patterns in rural trauma settings and may help inform future research and trauma care planning in similar environments.