Influencing Factors of the Mortality in Patients with Major Trauma: 2016-2022 Community-Based Severe Trauma Survey in Korea

This study aimed to examine trends in severe trauma patients in South Korea over the past 5 years, identify characteristics of fall patients, and investigate factors influencing fall-related deaths in medical institutions. The study utilized data from the Community-Based Severe Trauma Survey provided by the Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention from 2016 to 2020. Among 232,625 severe trauma patients treated during the study period, 25.6% were fall patients (n=59,576). The majority of fall patients (65.1%) were male, and the highest incidence was in the 50-59 age group (19.8%). Falls were the most common reason for visiting a Local Emergency Treatment Center (44.4%). An investigation of factors influencing fall-related deaths revealed that a higher Injury Severity Score (ISS) was associated with increased mortality risk. In the Regional Trauma Center, the risk of death decreased for fall patients who underwent surgery or embolization but increased for those who received blood transfusions. In contrast, in Local Emergency Treatment Centers and Local Emergency Medical Institutions, mortality risk increased for patients who underwent surgery or embolization. A balanced emergency medical system is needed to address regional disparities in emergency medical care to reduce fall-related deaths and disabilities.