Pattern of Orthopedic Trauma during COVID-19 Crisis in Saudi Arabia: Report from Level I Trauma and COVID-19 Center

Objectives: The aim of this study was to provide the pattern of orthopedic trauma catered at our center during the lockdown to stop the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and compare it during the same period in the preceding year. Methods: A retrospective study of all trauma patients operated during partial and total lockdown during March– July 2020, was conducted at the orthopedic department of King Fahd Hospital of the University, Al-Khobar. The data collected were age, gender, reason for hospital admission, date of injury and presentation, length of stay, and treatment provided. The exposure and transmission of the COVID-19 to healthy orthopedic staff were recorded. Results: During the lockdown, there were 71 admissions compared to 110 the year before, with a drop of 39 (35.4%) patients. The drop in the number of women and children was statistically significant (P P Conclusion: The COVID-19 pandemic decreased orthopedic trauma admissions by 35% during the lockdown period and early surgery and discharge of the patients was possible due to proper planning.