A survey of post-intake orthopaedic trauma meetings in England

The structure of trauma meetings has been noted to vary considerably throughout our region. The aim of this study was to assess current practice of trauma meetings on a national level and to propose a structure on the basis of the survey.

A telephone survey of 120 hospitals in England was performed with a 100% response rate. The on-call duty orthopaedic surgeon at each hospital was contacted and questioned regarding trauma meetings held at that hospital. Details obtained included the frequency of meetings, the presence of medical staff and staff from other disciplines, review of radiographs and educational value.

In total, 107 (89.2%) hospitals conducted regular trauma meetings with a mean duration of 36 min (range, 15-120 min). Teaching of junior medical staff occurred at 89 (83.2%) meetings. Postoperative radiographs were reviewed at 80 (74.8%) hospitals. A radiologist attended in 5 (4.7%) of meetings. The median number of consultants present was 3 (range, 1-10). Other attendees included trauma co-ordinators (34.6%), physiotherapists (30.8%), theatre staff (23.4%), nursing staff (20.6%) and anaesthetists (15.9%).

Trauma meetings assist with the organisation of trauma lists, the review of results and have a valuable educational component. However, in busier orthopaedic units, additional meetings for teaching purposes may be necessary as an adjunct to routine daily trauma meetings.