Foot and Ankle Trauma During COVID-19: A 5-Year Study
Author Information
Author(s): Mascio Antonio, Greco Tommaso, Comisi Chiara, Cinelli Virginia, De Gasperis Nicola, Candelli Marcello, Franceschi Francesco, Covino Marcello, Maccauro Giulio, Perisano Carlo
Primary Institution: Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli
Hypothesis
This study aims to analyze differences in foot and ankle trauma admissions before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a decrease in total emergency department admissions for foot and ankle trauma, but an increase in the severity of cases that were treated.
Supporting Evidence
- Total admissions decreased from 2228 pre-pandemic to 981 during the pandemic.
- The average age of patients increased from 37.4 years pre-pandemic to 43.8 years during the pandemic.
- Surgical treatment rates increased from 5.6% pre-pandemic to 10.4% during the pandemic.
- Severity codes indicated more complex cases during the pandemic compared to pre-pandemic.
- Daily admissions remained lower post-pandemic compared to pre-pandemic levels.
Takeaway
During the COVID-19 pandemic, fewer people went to the hospital for foot and ankle injuries, but those who did had more serious problems.
Methodology
Data from 3787 patients were collected over five years from an electronic database, analyzing admissions to the emergency department.
Potential Biases
The data may not reflect all facilities in Rome, potentially limiting generalizability.
Limitations
The study may not fully represent trends across the entire metropolitan area of Rome.
Participant Demographics
1945 males with a mean age of 41.4 years; the mean age increased during the pandemic.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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