The influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on traumatic brain injuries in Tyrol: experiences from a state under lockdown

European Journal of Trauma and Emergency Surgery, 2021 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00068-020-01445-7 · Published: July 22, 2020

COVID-19 Surgery Brain Injury

Simple Explanation

This study examines how the COVID-19 lockdown in Tyrol, Austria, affected the number and causes of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Tyrol is a popular skiing destination, and the lockdown measures included closing ski resorts and restricting outdoor activities. Researchers compared TBI cases during the 3-week lockdown in 2020 with the same period from 2016 to 2019. The goal was to understand how quarantine measures influenced neurosurgical caseload and the patterns of TBIs. The study found a significant decrease in weekly TBI cases during the lockdown compared to previous years. There was also a notable absence of sports-related TBIs and a decrease in skull fractures, suggesting a change in the causes of head injuries.

Study Duration

3 weeks

Participants

122 TBI patients

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
The weekly number of TBI patients decreased significantly during the strict quarantine in 2020 compared to 2016, 2018, and 2019.
2
There was a significant decrease in concomitant skull fractures (p < 0.016) during the quarantine period.
3
No alpine sports-related TBI occurred during the full lockdown period.

Research Summary

This study analyzed the impact of the COVID-19 quarantine on traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases in Tyrol, Austria, by comparing data from the 2020 lockdown period with the same period in 2016–2019. The study found a significant decrease in weekly TBI cases during the quarantine, along with a decrease in skull fractures and the absence of sports-related TBIs. The findings suggest that quarantine measures and the closure of ski resorts significantly altered the TBI landscape, though falls at home remained a relevant cause of injury.

Practical Implications

Resource Prioritization

Hospitals need strategies to prioritize neurosurgical care during pandemics.

Falls Prevention

Falls at home remained a common cause of TBI, highlighting the need for continued prevention efforts.

Understanding Changing Injury Patterns

Lockdown measures can significantly alter the causes and incidence of TBIs.

Study Limitations

1
Retrospective study design.
2
Low case numbers due to the limited time period of strict quarantine.
3
Potential underreporting of mild TBIs during the quarantine period.

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