Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is associated with close to half of major trauma admissions in adults over age 65 in the U.K.
Falls accounted for 85% of all TBIs, while 45% of patients had subdural hematomas (SDH).
More than 3/4 of patients were treated conservatively, though outcomes were not significantly better than those who underwent neurosurgical intervention.
Higher age is associated with higher mortality and greater disability.
Bottom Line: Trauma in older adults is increasing and fall prevention is important in reducing significant injuries.
References
Hawley C, Sakr M, Scapinello S, et al. Traumatic brain injuries in older adults - 6 years of data for one UK trauma centre: retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. Emerg Med J 2017;0:1-8.
