Pattern of Orthopedic Trauma during COVID-19 Crisis in Saudi Arabia: Report from Level I Trauma and COVID-19 Center

Objectives: The aim of this study was to provide the pattern of orthopedic trauma catered at our center during the lockdown to stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and compare it during the same period in the preceding year. Methods: A retrospective study of all trauma patients operated during partial and total lockdown during March– July 2020, was conducted at the orthopedic department of King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar. The data collected were age, gender, reason for hospital admission, date of injury and presentation, length of stay, and treatment provided. The exposure and transmission of the COVID-19 to healthy orthopedic staff were recorded. Results: During the lockdown, there were 71 admissions compared to 110 the year before, with a drop of 39 (35.4%) patients. The drop in the number of women and children was statistically significant (P < 0.05 and < 0.001, respectively). The majority of injuries were sustained from domestic accidents and road crashes. There was a significant increase in fractures of the vertebral column and distal radius (P < 0.002 and < 0.05, respectively). In the pre-COVID-19 period, the average time to discharge was 18.90 ± 12.74 days and the average time to discharge in COVID-19 period was 4.28 ± 3.52 days. Four orthopedic staffs were exposed to COVID-19-positive patients and one of the surgeons became positive. Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic decreased orthopedic trauma admissions by 35% during the lockdown period and early surgery and discharge of the patients was possible due to proper planning.