Evaluation of functionality and quality of life in patients with lower limb fractures after traffic accidents admitted to IOT-HCFMUSP.

INTRODUCTION

Traffic accidents pose a significant public health concern, particularly for motorcyclists, who are especially susceptible to severe and debilitating injuries. These injuries can impair work activities and diminish the overall quality of life.

OBJECTIVE

This study aims to assess the functionality, quality of life, and return-to-work status of patients who sustained lower limb fractures due to traffic accidents.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective observational study involving patients hospitalized with lower limb fractures due to traffic accidents at the Institute of Orthopedics and Traumatology at the Hospital das Clínicas, Faculty of Medicine, University of São Paulo, from 2018 to 2022. The authors performed the Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and the 10-meter walk test, and administered the SF-12 questionnaire to evaluate quality of life. Additional questions regarding their return to work were also included.

RESULTS

A total of thirty-nine patients were evaluated six months or more following their last surgery. The results indicated that the average TUG time was 12.3 ± 3.3 seconds, and the average speed in the 10-meter walk test was 1.6 ± 0.3 m/s. The SF-12 results revealed a mean score of 48.6 ± 10.9 points in the mental domain and 39.9 ± 9.5 points in the physical domain. Notably, 72 % of patients had not returned to work. The length of hospital stay and the severity of injuries were significant factors influencing patient recovery.

CONCLUSION

Although patients demonstrated normal functional status, the majority reported difficulties in performing daily activities and experienced low quality of life even after rehabilitation. This highlights the considerable impact that traffic accidents have on individuals' lives.