Spine Injuries Sustained After Falls While Crossing the U.S.-Mexico Border

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Orthopedic Surgery
• Public Health

Background:

• Border crossings involving falls from significant heights present unique trauma challenges.
• Spinal injuries are a critical concern in this high-risk population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the demographics, incidence, and patterns of spinal injuries in patients falling from height during border crossings.
• To identify factors associated with spinal injury severity and treatment outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study at a Level I trauma center (January 2016 - December 2021).
• Inclusion criteria: patients admitted after falling from significant height while traversing the U.S.-Mexico border.
• Data analysis included demographics, injury patterns, Injury Severity Score (ISS), and length of stay (LOS).

Main Results:

• 117 of 448 patients (26.2%) sustained spine injuries; 39 (33.3%) required operative fixation.
• Females had a higher incidence of spine injuries (60% vs. 40%).
• Higher falls (median 6.1m vs. 4.6m) were linked to increased spinal injury severity (ISS), longer LOS, and higher operative rates.
• Operative spine injuries were associated with higher ISS, longer ICU LOS, and increased incidence of head and chest injuries.

Conclusions:

• Falls from height during border crossings lead to significant polytrauma, with spinal injuries being common.
• Higher fall height is a predictor of more severe spinal injuries and poorer outcomes.
• Spine surgeons and neurocritical care teams must be prepared for these complex injuries in this specific demographic.