Trauma from traffic accidents in people over 65: retrospective observational study in a tertiary hospital (2018-2024)

OBJECTIVE. To describe the clinical profile and in-hospital outcomes of patients older than 65 years treated at a tertiary referral center following traffic accident–related trauma.
MATERIAL AND METHODS. We conducted a retrospective observational study of all patients ≥ 65 years treated for traffic accidents at Hospital Universitario Arnau de Vilanova (Barcelona, Spain) from 2018 through 2024. We analyzed sociodemographic variables, type of injury, discharge destination, and the length of hospital. Statistical analysis included annual distribution, bivariate analysis by age group and type of trauma, and trends in main care indicators.
RESULTS. A total of 1,138 patients were included, with a mean age of 75 6 67,4 years. The most frequent age group was 65–70 years (35%–39%). Most patients were discharged home (68%–76%), although 20%–23% required hospital admission. The most common injuries were thoracic (12%–18%) and cranial (9%–13%). In-hospital mortality ranged from 2% to 15%, with higher rates being observed in older patients with comorbidities or cognitive impairment. The length of stay extended for more than 15 days in between 10% and 27%.
CONCLUSIONS. Traffic accident–related trauma in the geriatric population requires specific management. Although most patients did not require admission, a significant proportion had prolonged hospitalizations and increased mortality. These findings reinforce the need to adapt care protocols to the aging population.