Systematic triage and treatment of earthquake victims: Our experience in a tertiary hospital after the 2023 Kahramanmaras earthquake

Jt Dis Relat Surg, 2023 · DOI: 10.52312/jdrs.2023.1102 · Published: May 18, 2023

Simple Explanation

This study evaluates the benefits of a triage system used after the Kahramanmaras earthquake to accelerate intervention for musculoskeletal injuries. The triage system involved rapid evaluation and organized teamwork to improve treatment outcomes and prognosis for patients admitted after the earthquake. The study found that a well-organized communication and triage strategy can prevent treatment delays and adverse events in future disasters.

Study Duration

Between February 6th, 2023 and February 20th, 2023

Participants

439 patients (207 males, 232 females; mean age: 37.1±19.1 years; range, 1 to 94 years)

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Lower limb injuries constituted 59.07% of all musculoskeletal injuries.
2
The most common surgical intervention was debridement (n=136, 53.1%).
3
A total of 50 (10.6%) limb amputations were performed in 40 patients at the last follow-up due to vascular insufficiency and infection.

Research Summary

This study evaluates the triage system's effectiveness in expediting intervention for musculoskeletal injuries following the Kahramanmaras earthquake. The findings suggest that a well-organized communication and triage system can prevent treatment delays and potential adverse events during future disasters. The study highlights the importance of systematic triage, organized teamwork, and communication in managing a large influx of trauma patients following a disaster.

Practical Implications

Improved Disaster Response

The study provides insights into how hospitals can improve their response to mass casualty events, particularly earthquakes, by implementing effective triage and communication systems.

Resource Allocation

The findings can help hospitals better allocate resources, such as operating rooms and ICU beds, during disaster situations to ensure timely treatment for all patients.

Treatment Protocols

The study's findings on common injury types and treatment methods can inform the development of standardized treatment protocols for earthquake-related musculoskeletal injuries.

Study Limitations

1
Single-center, retrospective design.
2
Relatively small sample size.
3
Treatment results were recorded, but the results of the treatments could not be evaluated.

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