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- Talk
- 29/09/2024
- UK
Challenges in Management of Combined Spine and Major Trauma
Description
This presentation from BOA 2024 focuses on the rapid advancements and current practices related to spinal trauma surgery, particularly from the perspective of a consultant in a major trauma center, Barts Health, located in the Royal London hospital. The speaker, Mr Alexander Montgomery, begins by providing background information about the evolving nature of spine surgery, emphasizing that it has become a distinct subspecialty over the past 15 years due to increased scope, intervention capabilities, decision-making technology, and surgical approaches.
The presentation will cover key elements to consider when planning surgical intervention for trauma patients with spinal injuries, especially when combined with fractures of other regions like the femur or tibia. Mr Montgomery raises critical questions regarding patient assessments before surgical procedures, highlighting the communication necessary between orthopedic and spinal surgeons.
Statistical data is revealed, noting that approximately 30% of trauma patients experience spinal fractures, showcasing the importance of accurately recognizing these injuries in current clinical practice. There is discussion about various injury classifications relevant to spinal injuries, and how surgical interventions must be approached based on the like of stability of various types of fractures.
Mr Montgomery also delves into timing for surgical interventions, suggesting that optimal approaches focus on early operations (within 48 hours) for better outcomes, which aligns with evolving literature supporting this strategy. Throughout the talk, there is notable stress on the need for effective communication within trauma teams and the integration of spinal surgeons into multidisciplinary teams for improved patient outcomes, which has evolved as part of the centralization of trauma surgery in hospitals.
Finally, the talk emphasizes the ongoing changes in practices around spinal care due to technological advancements, significant improvements in surgical techniques, and the multidisciplinary teamwork necessary in trauma settings, all contributing to enhanced recovery and lower complication rates for patients with spinal trauma.