Wound condition analysis of early-phase orthopaedic patients after 5·12 Wenchuan earthquake

Objective In the case of natural hazards causing great casualties such as earthquake,prompt provision of detailed wound condition data is significant for organizing medical aid and providing accurate and effective salvage.Methods We have summarized the wound conditions of orthopaedic patients admitted to the Sichuan Provincial People's Hospital,Sichuan Academy of Medical Sciences during the first one week following 5·12 Wenchuan earthquake.By analyzing these data and deducing the rules,we expect to provide useful references for early-phase assessment and treatment in incidents of similar hazards.Results During the period from May 12,2008 to May 19,2008,this hospital accepted a total of 1,275 wounded persons including 609 males and 666 females.The youngest was one-day newborn and the eldest was 93-year old.92.47% of them(1179 cases) suffered from injuries of limb and spine.Among orthopaedic patients,482 cases(40.88%) belonged to soft tissue injuries without fracture or dislocation,in whom 112 cases(23.23%) were crush injuries.697 cases(59.12%) had fracture or dislocation.Among them,237 cases(34%) were multiple fractures,422 cases(60.55%) were lower limb fractures,183 cases(26.25%) were upper limb fractures,and 142 cases(20.37%) were spine fractures.89 fractured cases(12.76%) were complicated by injuries of heart,lung,brain or abdominal organs.Totally 24 cases died.Conclusion After earthquake,a large number of orthopaedic patients will simultaneously emerge,so pertinent preparation and treatment are the guarantee for improving prognosis and enhancing medical quality.