Injuries requiring anesthesia. An epidemiologic survey

An epidemiological survey carried out in 460 public and private institutions chosen at random country-wide in France made it possible to study injuries whose treatment had necessitated an anaesthetic. For 1980, the total number of anaesthetics administered for injuries was estimated at 450,600, among which 22% were applied in public teaching hospitals, 40% in non teaching hospitals, and 38% in private institutions. Of the total number of anaesthetics given, 41% were emergencies and 10% were repeat operations. The proportion of anaesthetics applied in treatment of injuries increases in the summertime and on weekends. There was a majority of male patients (61%), the most important group being those 15 to 24 years of age. Among females, the highest proportion of injuries was observed among those between 75 and 84 years of age. Fractures accounted for 58% of the injuries, open wounds for 20%, dislocations, sprains and strains for 10%. The incidence of injuries varied according to sex and age. Those exposed to the highest risk were males between 15 and 24, and females over 75. Incidence rates by sex and age were also assessed for fractures of the skull and face, upper limb, neck of the femur and lower limb.