Is it ever too hot for orthopaedic trauma?

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates the occurrence of orthopaedic trauma admissions in concordance with local weather variations. We hypothesized that the rate of orthopaedic trauma would be altered with daily temperature maximums (Tmax) that exceeded 90°F. Methods: Data were obtained from two level 1 trauma centers for adult trauma with Abbreviated Injury Scale-Extremity >1, and admission. The data collected from the National Weather Service included daily temperatures and precipitation. Results: There was an average of 4.0 admissions per day. Precipitation was not significantly related to admission. Tmax 80-89°F averaged 4.7 traumas per day, compared to Tmax 90-99°F averaging 4.9 per day. When Tmax was >100°F the rate dropped to 3.9 traumas per day, P<0.05. Conclusions: Orthopaedic trauma does increase during warmer days with the peak occurring in August. Precipitation had no overall effect. The incidence of trauma did increase with Tmax 80-99°F but dropped significantly when Tmax exceeded 100°F.