Devastating neurologic injuries in the Syrian war

Neurology: Clinical Practice, 2019 · DOI: 10.1212/CPJ.0000000000000556 · Published: February 1, 2019

Simple Explanation

The Syrian war has led to a large number of neurologic injuries. This study examines the types and prevalence of these injuries in a rehabilitation center on the Turkish-Syrian border. Data was collected from patients between 2013 and 2016, focusing on the cause and nature of their injuries. The study found that gunshot wounds were the most common cause of neurologic injury. Peripheral nerve injuries were the most common type of neurologic injury observed, followed by spinal cord injuries and traumatic brain injuries.

Study Duration

4 years

Participants

230 patients with neurologic injuries

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Gunshot wounds were the dominant mechanism of injury in 54.3% of patients.
2
Peripheral nerve injuries (PNI) were the most prevalent, accounting for 92.5% of all neurologic injuries.
3
Spinal cord injuries (SCI) made up 8.7% of all patients, with thoracic spine injuries being the most common location.

Research Summary

This study analyzes neurologic injuries sustained by patients in the Syrian war who were treated at a rehabilitation center on the Turkish-Syrian border from 2013 to 2016. The study found that gunshot wounds were the primary cause of injury, and peripheral nerve injuries were the most common type of neurologic injury. The findings highlight the urgent need for emergency aid and specialized neurotrauma care in the region.

Practical Implications

Prehospital Training

Train prehospital personnel in proper extraction and immobilization techniques for neurotrauma patients.

Neurologic Emergency Triage

Implement a system for neurologic emergency triage in the field to ensure appropriate treatment of TBI patients in prehospital settings.

Surgical Program for Peripheral Nerve Injuries

Implement a surgical program focused on reconstructing brachial plexus and lower extremity PNI to reduce morbidity.

Study Limitations

1
Survival bias, as the cases analyzed represent only those who survived their initial injuries.
2
The patients included in this study were only those treated during a short visitation period of 5 days.
3
Lack of documentation on transport times and follow-up data after discharge from the rehabilitation center.

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