Psychiatric assessment of leg fracture patients: a pilot study

Of 200 consecutively admitted leg fracture patients, 101 consented to be screened for psychopathology using the BSI and SMAST questionnaires. Probable cases of psychopathology were referred for diagnostic psychiatric evaluation. Of the participants, 80.2 percent were identified as possible psychiatric cases. Diagnostic evaluation revealed high prevalence of substance abuse (66.0%), depression (46.8%), and personality pathology (38.3%). Accident victims tended to be single young males. Accidents occurred mostly during leisure hours, and were often associated with alcohol use. Psychiatric assistance appears essential in the management of such patients. Psychiatrists need to be especially knowledgeable about chemical dependency, interpersonal issues and psychotherapy.