Traumatic spinal injury epidemiology in a Danish population: a retrospective review of prospectively collected data.

Abstract

Background: Epidemiological data and demographics of spinal injuries are varied; previous studies mainly focus on specific injuries or population subgroups. This study assesses the overall incidence and demographic distribution of traumatic spinal injuries in the Capital Region of Denmark to identify current trends.

Methods: We conducted a retrospective, single-center cohort study using prospectively collected electronic health record data. All patients with traumatic spinal injuries referred to Copenhagen University Hospital, Rigshospitalet, were prospectively registered during a two-year period. Gender, age, trauma mechanism, neurological injury, associated injuries and choice of treatment were collected from the patient's electronic health record at time of registration.

Results: A total of 950 patients were registered, sustaining 1,553 injuries of the spine. Almost 60% of injuries were sustained due to high-energy trauma, the majority of which were incurred by patients < 65 years of age. The age-standardized incidence rate of spinal cord injury was 1.2 per 100,000 persons per year. Surgical intervention was performed on 28.5% of injuries, with significantly lower rates among older adults (p-value < 0.001). Low-energy falls accounted for approximately one-third of injuries, predominantly affecting patients aged 65 and older, representing a modest increase compared to earlier reports.

Conclusion: High-energy trauma remains a leading cause of spinal injuries in individuals under 65. Spinal injuries due to low-energy falls are becoming increasingly prevalent among the elderly, though surgical management of these injuries remains below the rates associated with younger patient groups. The findings underscore evolving demographic trends and may inform future research into treatment strategies and outcomes, particularly in older populations.