Cost Associated with Geriatric Traumatic Brain Injury in Developing Countries: An Observational Study

Area of Science:

• Geriatric medicine
• Trauma surgery
• Public health

Background:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) poses a significant public health challenge in the elderly population, affecting mortality and morbidity.
• Geriatric TBI requires focused research due to its unique impact on older adults.

Purpose of the Study:

• To estimate the financial burden of geriatric TBI in the region.
• To identify key diagnostic and treatment cost drivers for TBI in patients over 65.
• To inform healthcare policy and resource allocation for geriatric TBI.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of patients aged over 65 admitted to a specialized trauma center (January 2016 - December 2019).
• Data collected included demographics, diagnosis, Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), length of stay, investigations, and surgical procedures.
• Analysis focused on diagnosis-specific costs, investigation costs, and the relationship between GCS scores and hospitalization expenses.

Main Results:

• 145 TBI cases were analyzed; subdural hematoma was the most frequent diagnosis (85 cases) and the costliest (average $3569 per patient).
• Average length of stay was 17.11 ± 41 hours; most patients (109) had non-prolonged stays (<14 days).
• Observation management was associated with below-average costs (P < 0.001). Head CTs ($58,864) and craniotomies ($30,000) were major cost contributors. Lower GCS scores correlated with below-average hospitalization costs (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

• This study offers the first regional estimates of the financial impact of geriatric TBI.
• Findings underscore the need for TBI prevention strategies in the elderly.
• Results can guide resource allocation and healthcare policy development for geriatric TBI management.