PATTERN AND OUTCOME OF GERIATRIC TRAUMA PATIENTS AT AABET HOSPITAL

Abstract

Abstract Background: Older adults constitute a significant and growing portion of the trauma population. Exploring their specific injury patterns and outcomes is crucial to better meet their needs. This study aimed to assess the temporal changes in the demographic and trauma characteristics, injury pattern, associated factors, and outcomes of geriatric trauma patients at a major urban trauma center in Ethiopia. Objective: The primary objective was to determine the pattern and outcome of geriatric trauma patients presenting to AaBET Hospital Emergency Department. Methods: An institution based retrospective cross-sectional study was conducted at AaBET Hospital. Data were extracted from the HMIS registry and patient medical records for all geriatric trauma patients (aged ≥60 years) presenting to the ED between October 1, 2023 and September 30, 2024. Data analysis was performed using IBM SPSS Statistics. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression was used to assess the association between the independent and dependent variables. Association with a p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Result: The study included 210 patients with a mean age of 68.1 ± 7.9 years and a nearly equal gender distribution. Falls were the dominant injury mechanism (52.4%), followed by road traffic accidents (29.1%). Most patients (65.7%) were residents of Addis Ababa. The triage distribution was Green (41.8%), Yellow (37.4%), Orange (14.1%), and Red (6.8%). The Overall mortality rate was 1.4%, and 9.5% of patients Left Against Medical Advice (LAMA). Multivariate analysis identified Orange triage category (AOR=3.55), “other” injury mechanisms (AOR+2.84) as independent predictors of severe outcomes (admission or death). A paradoxical protective effect was observed for the oldest age group (≥80 years, AO=0.21). Conclusion: Geriatric trauma in Addis Ababa is characterized by a fall predominance, significant acuity levers, and modifiable outcome predictors. The findings underscore the need for geriatric specific trauma protocols, enhanced fall prevention, and improved patient education to address the high LAMA rate. Key Words: Geriatric Trauma, Geriatric, Fractures, Falls, Frailty, Outcomes, Ethiopia