OA2046. Trauma management in Armenia: Disparities between Yerevan and rural regions

Abstract Background Traumatic brain injury (TBI) and spinal cord injury (SCI) are leading causes of death and disability, causing long-term challenges. In Armenia, there is limited data on TBI and SCI, especially between Yerevan and provincial areas. Global research has advanced treatments, but the lack of localized data hinders effective prevention and treatment development. Methods A retrospective study was conducted using data from Heratsi Hospital Complex in Yerevan and Gyumri Medical Center between January 2021 and December 2023. Data on demographics, injury details, outcomes, and severity were collected for 247 cases of TBI and SCI. Results Of 247 cases, 106 were from Yerevan (42.9%) and 136 from other regions (55.1%). The average age was 52±19 years in Yerevan and 50±17 years in regions. Females predominated in both areas (62.3% in Yerevan, 68.4% in regions). Ambulance transport was more common in Yerevan (83.0% vs. 62.5%), while accidents were more frequent in regions (24.3% vs. 10.4%). Skull injuries were more frequent in regions (84.6% vs. 79.2%), while intracranial hematomas were more common in Yerevan. Mechanical ventilation was more often used in regions (31.6% vs. 1.9%). The average hospital stay was longer in regions (9.5 vs. 7.8 days). Conclusions This study reveals notable differences in trauma outcomes between metropolitan and non-metropolitan Armenia. Yerevan experiences more ambulance transport and intracranial hematomas, while non-metropolitan areas have higher rates of accidents, skull injuries, and a greater need for mechanical ventilation. Hospital stays are longer in rural regions, reflecting the challenges posed by limited healthcare access. These findings highlight the regional disparities in trauma care, with rural areas requiring more intensive treatment. The gender and age distributions were similar across regions, emphasizing the impact of urbanization on trauma management. Key messages • Trauma care in Armenia shows significant regional differences, with Yerevan having more ambulance transport and intracranial hematomas, while rural areas face higher accident and skull injury rates. • Non-metropolitan regions in Armenia require more intensive trauma care, including mechanical ventilation and longer hospital stays, highlighting the impact of urbanization on healthcare access and outcomes. Topic Traumatic brain injury (TBI), Spinal cord injury (SCI), Regional disparities in trauma care.