TRAUMATIC THORACOLUMBAR FRACTURE IN A PUBLIC HOSPITAL IN SÃO PAULO: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY

Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: This work aims assess the clinical-epidemiological profile of lumbar spine trauma in patients treated at a tertiary hospital in the ABC region of São Paulo, identifying factors associated with the prognosis of these injuries, to contribute epidemiological data that assist in developing prevention and treatment policies. Methodology: An epidemiological, retrospective, descriptive, and cross-sectional analysis was conducted at the Mário Covas State Hospital in Santo André, São Paulo, including patients with fractures and/or dislocations of the lumbar spine treated from January 2018 to December 2022. Cases of other spinal fractures, non-traumatic or pathological fractures, and incomplete records were excluded. Data collection was based on medical records and radiographic images, using variables such as age group, gender, education level, ethnicity, marital status, trauma mechanism, type of fracture, and neurological deficit. Results: A total of 265 patients were analyzed, predominantly male (61.5%), with an average age of 54.2 years. Traffic accidents and falls were the main trauma mechanisms. A balance was observed between conservative and surgical treatments. The incidence of fractures and/or dislocations of the lumbar spine increased after the onset of the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Conclusion: In the present study, fractures of the thoracic and lumbar spine occurred more commonly in male patients of economically active age and were caused by falls from heights, followed by falls to the ground and car accidents. The study highlights the need for further research to improve the management of these injuries, aiming to enhance public health policies. Evidence Level III; Retrospective study.

Keywords

• Spinal Column
• Spinal Injuries
• Spinal Fractures