Long-term outcomes and resource Utilization related to upper extremity off-roading vehicle injuries.

Abstract

Purpose: We aim to evaluate outcomes after off-roading injuries to determine their impact on patients' pain and function. Further, we aim to evaluate the burden on the healthcare system that result from these injuries.

Methods: Patients treated surgically for an off-roading injury at a single tertiary academic center completed surveys about their current level of upper extremity pain and function using QuickDASH and VAS-Pain scores. Qualitative questions were used to assess work status. Patients were classified as having acceptable versus unacceptable pain and upper extremity function in reference to previously published PASS (Patient Acceptable Symptom State) thresholds. Descriptive statistics were calculated to describe the burden these injuries place on the healthcare system.

Results: Of 23 included patients, mean age was 38 ± 12 and 70 % (16/23) were male. At a mean follow-up of 2.0 ± 1.2 years post-injury, 40 % (9/23) patients reported that they were unable to work, or this ability was severely impaired. The mean VAS pain and QuickDASH scores were 2.8 ± 2.9 and 19.8 ± 21.7 respectively. Nearly half of patients were classified as having unacceptable levels of pain and upper extremity function [48 % (11/23) and 43 % (10/23) respectively]. Patients required an average of 2.7 ± 2.6 surgeries and 100 % were admitted with a mean length of stay of 10.2 ± 12.1 days.

Conclusions: Off-roading related upper extremity injuries have lasting impacts on patients and their abilities to work. Treatment of these injuries is resource-intensive based on the number of required surgeries and length of admission.