Epidemiology of spinal fractures and associated spinal cord injuries in Iceland

Spinal Cord Series and Cases, 2018 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41394-018-0112-5 · Published: July 15, 2018

Spinal Cord Injury Public Health Musculoskeletal Medicine

Simple Explanation

This study looks at the causes and risk factors for spinal fractures and spinal cord injuries in Iceland. The study found that falls were the most common cause of spinal fractures and spinal cord injuries. However, young people were more likely to experience concomitant spinal cord injuries. Wearing seatbelts was found to be protective against spinal cord injuries during traffic accidents.

Study Duration

5 years

Participants

487 patients diagnosed with a spinal fracture

Evidence Level

Level III, Retrospective epidemiological study

Key Findings

1
Spinal fractures led to spinal cord injury in 9% of patients.
2
Falls were the leading cause of both spinal fractures (49%) and spinal cord injuries (43%).
3
Low falls (<1 m) caused spinal fractures more often in elderly women (67%, mean age 77 years) and more than 96% were without SCI.

Research Summary

This retrospective study analyzed hospital admissions in Iceland over a 5-year period to assess the epidemiology of traumatic spinal fractures (SFs) and associated spinal cord injuries (SCI). The study found that falls were the most common cause of SFs and SCIs. Elderly women were particularly vulnerable to SFs from low falls, while younger patients were at higher risk of SCI. The authors conclude that preventive efforts should be directed towards risk factors such as falls, not using seat belts and high-energy accidents.

Practical Implications

Targeted prevention strategies

Prevention efforts should target elderly women to prevent low falls and younger individuals to promote seat belt use.

Workplace safety enforcement

Stricter safety regulations in the workplace are needed to prevent falls from high levels.

Promote safety equipment use

Encouraging the use of safety equipment in sports/leisure-related activities can reduce the risk of spinal injuries.

Study Limitations

1
The population-based number of SFs in this material might be slightly underestimated.
2
The study did not include patients with asymptomatic spinal compression fractures.
3
The study did not include patients who progressively developed a SCI following the SF.

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