Update on peripheral nerve injuries in Germany 2019-2023

Area of Science:

• Traumatology
• Epidemiology
• Neurology

Background:

• Traumatic peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) result from fractures and soft tissue damage, leading to significant motor and sensory deficits.
• Limited epidemiological data exists for PNI in Germany, hindering targeted public health interventions.
• PNI can cause debilitating long-term consequences for affected individuals.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the national incidence of traumatic peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) in Germany.
• To analyze PNI epidemiology stratified by gender, age, and anatomical region.
• To provide a baseline for future research and clinical management of PNI.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective, population-based cohort study utilizing registry data from 2019-2023.
• Analysis of anonymized patient data for traumatic peripheral nerve injuries (PNI).
• Calculation of PNI incidence per 100,000 individuals, stratified by demographics and anatomical location, compared to the German reference population.

Main Results:

• The national incidence of peripheral nerve injury (PNI) as a concomitant trauma diagnosis in Germany is 11.27 per 100,000 population.
• Males exhibit a higher incidence of PNI (2.17:1 ratio compared to females).
• The forearm, wrist, and hand are the most frequently affected anatomical regions, with 55.83% of injuries occurring in individuals aged 18-49. Bone fractures account for 22.88% of PNI.

Conclusions:

• A national mean incidence for traumatic peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) in Germany was established at 11.27 per 100,000 population.
• The findings highlight demographic and regional patterns of PNI, crucial for understanding injury burden.
• This study provides essential epidemiological data for addressing traumatic peripheral nerve injuries in Germany.