A study of traumatic brain injury in Puerto Rico

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Neuroscience
• Public Health

Background:

• Traumatic brain injury (TBI) poses a significant public health challenge.
• Understanding the specific demographics and injury patterns of TBI patients is crucial for effective healthcare planning.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize the population of patients with traumatic brain injury (TBI) treated at a major trauma hospital in Puerto Rico.
• To identify key demographic, injury, and outcome variables associated with TBI in this population.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review was conducted on patient data from 2019-2022.
• Data included demographics, injury mechanisms, Glasgow Coma Scale, Injury Severity Score, length of stay, and discharge disposition, using ICD-10-CM codes for TBI case definition.
• A total of 947 TBI patients were analyzed.

Main Results:

• The majority of TBI patients were young men (80.7%), with a median age of 39.
• Most cases were severe (median GCS=7, median ISS=17), with motorcycle injuries (23.0%) and motor vehicle collisions (22.9%) as primary mechanisms.
• In-hospital mortality was 18.1%, higher in males (20.7%) than females (8.2%), and females had better discharge home rates (84.6% vs 69.9%).

Conclusions:

• Traumatic brain injury care is in high demand in Puerto Rico, with a significant burden and severity observed, especially in young men.
• Further characterization of TBI across Puerto Rico and strengthening of rehabilitation services are recommended.
• Comprehensive preventive strategies targeting key injury mechanisms are essential for the island.