Fall-related traumatic brain injuries in a rural hinterland: a prospective study

Summary: Fall has been with us for ages. Our forefathers experienced it. They made proverbs from falls. The consequences of falls are enormous, including traumatic brain injuries. It is one of the most common causes of traumatic brain injuries. The need to prevent it from happening cannot be overemphasized. Objective: The aim was to determine the treatment outcomes in patients we managed in our center for traumatic brain injuries from falls Methods: It was a prospective observational study of patients we managed in our center for traumatic brain injuries from falls from August 2010 to July 2016. The patients were managed in accident and emergency using Advanced Trauma Life Support protocols. After resuscitation patients were admitted in the wards or intensive care units based on severity of injury. Those who needed surgery were operated and admitted in the appropriate wards. Treatment continued in the wards until discharged. They were followed up in surgical out-patient clinic. Their Glasgow Outcome Scores were assessed three months post-injury. Data were collected using structured proforma which was component of our prospective data bank that was approved by our ethics committee. Data were analyzed with Environmental Performance Index 7 software. Results : There were 69 patients in the study. Males were 53. The ages ranged from four months to 86 years. The most common cause was slip on the floor. Forty one patients fell at home. The favorable outcome was 85.51%. Severity of injury and age affected the outcome, while age alone affected the hospital stay. Conclusion: Slipping, fall from balcony and home materials cause majority of falls. The favorable outcome was 85.51%. Fall prevention campaign is essential.