Changes in Injury Patterns Associated With Elevated Blood Alcohol Level

Abstract

Introduction This study aims to improve public health outreach in a high-risk population. Methods This is a single center study of Trauma Registry data, inclusive years January 1, 2016 to March 30, 2021. The study population was stratified into two groups: ETOH ≥ 80 mg/dL and ETOH <80 mg/dL. A total of 1141 were included. Results Those above the legal drinking limit had a significantly higher mean ETOH (231 mg/dL; P <.01) and were typically younger men that arrived by ground ambulance. The significant injury patterns of those above the legal limit included full activation and consults who fell from stairs and fell from other or unknown. A higher proportion of intoxicated fall trauma patients above the legal limit were diagnosed with a concussion. Conclusions Excess alcohol consumption, particularly during a pandemic year, may lead to a higher incidence of fall from stairs trauma in men who are more likely to be diagnosed with a concussion.

Stair-related falls in the USA: traumatic brain injury and the role of alcohol intoxication

“…In this study, the reason for the decision to admit cannot be determined. We did find that alcohol-effected patients who fell on stairs had injuries consistent with more direct and severe impact to the head area as indicated by TBI diagnosis, findings which have been observed in other fall-related injury studies 10 11 22–24. Also, clinicians may admit head injured patients based on precaution of intracranial bleeds.…”