Resources for Patient Mental Health and Well-being after Orthopaedic Trauma

Abstract

Orthopaedic trauma is an unanticipated life-altering experience for patients. Additionally, the prevalence of psychiatric disorders has been found to be higher in patients with trauma than in the general adult population. Symptoms of depression, anxiety, or posttraumatic stress disorder have been reported in up to 56% of patients throughout their postoperative course. Furthermore, symptoms of any one of these illnesses have been consistently associated with worse patient outcomes after treatment of traumatic orthopaedic injuries. This includes increased levels of pain and disability, postoperative complications, and, in some cases, higher rates of hospital readmission. For most patients with trauma, focus is placed on physical therapy and rehabilitation in the acute postoperative setting to help patients regain function and strength; however, more recent studies have demonstrated equal importance of the social and psychological factors involved with trauma and their impact on outcomes. Therefore, it is essential for orthopaedic surgeons and other members of the care team to be adept in the screening and treatment of psychiatric disorders. For patients struggling with these conditions, several treatment resources exist, which can be used both during their admission and after discharge. Thus, earlier recognition and intervention with appropriate treatment and referrals should be emphasized to improve outcomes. This review discusses the social and psychological impacts of orthopaedic trauma on patients' mental health and well-being and outlines numerous resources available to patients as they recover from their injuries.

Risk of Fracture and Complications Following Fixation in Patients with Pre-injury Psychiatric Illness: A Propensity-Matched Cohort Study

“…In response to this heightened awareness, several institutions have investigated implementation of recovery resources to address these societal barriers to patient care, including mental health disorders. [16][17][18][19][20] Conclusions from these investigations found an overall positive effect of trauma recovery programs and services. [21][22][23] In fact, in March 2022, the American College of Surgeons Verification Review Consultation Program released new guidance regarding accreditation for Level I and II trauma centers recommending multidisciplinary approaches for patients with trauma, including the screening for mental health disorders and initiation of treatment.…”