Injury Patterns in Patients With Traumatic Brain Injuries: Findings From a Traumatic Brain Injury Registry Initiative

Objectives Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a leading cause of morbidity, mortality, especially in India. Knowledge of the epidemiological profile of TBI can be useful in planning preventive and corrective measures to improve outcomes. However, in India, the data on TBI is often incomplete due to the absence of well-preserved registries and documentation. Through this paper, we hope to present a better understanding of TBI, presentation, and implications that may promote reforms. Material and Methods This retrospective observational five-year study assesses data from an in-hospital trauma registry of TBI. Data included patients’ demographic profiles, type of injury, radiological findings, examination, management details, and outcome during current hospitalisation. Using this data collected, we hope to understand and analyse the profile of patients who present with TBI. Results The cohort included 1934 TBI patients with male preponderance (79.79%), mainly in the 20–40-year age group, with road traffic accidents (RTA) being the most common cause, more so in two-wheelers and pedestrians, followed by fall from height. Associated orofacial injuries (28.8%), spinal trauma (11.11%), and polytrauma (13.4%) were noted. Based on the Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS), 57% had mild TBI. From the ones with moderate-severe TBI, 57.5% underwent surgery. The severe TBI group showed 22% mortality. Our data reflects the TBI profile from the semi-urban population in South coastal India. Males in the younger age group driving two-wheelers are the most susceptible group. Despite being low-velocity accidents, nearly one-third of the cases required emergency surgery, and nearly one-fifth succumbed to the injury. Conclusion Our study marks a first-of-its-kind registry from a south Indian centre, highlighting the importance of maintaining a complete trauma-based electronic registry. We hope that data from this study can help understand the natural history of TBI and aid the formulation of policies right from the onset - pre-hospital care to definitive management to prevent disabilities.