The gunshot-related injuries in trauma (GRIT) study: A profile of patients affected by gunshot-related orthopaedic injuries across South Africa

Backg roun d. South Africa (SA) has one of the highest gun-related mortality rates in world – 20 people per day. The available data, however, do not reflect substantial number patients suffering non-lethal firearm injuries. Gunshot-related injury been recognised as a highly costly healthcare problem by individual treating centres SA and other countries; no ‘national picture’ examined detail. Objectives. To explore burden gunshot-related orthopaedic injuries across SA. Methods. A multicentre research network was established SA, 37 units 9 provinces participated. prospective, observational cohort study performed during 2-week period 2019. Patients were screened, enrolled reported local teams. included if they had at least acute fracture referred to service. asked additional questions around baseline health-related quality-of-life (HRQOL) personal circumstances. Follow-up 8 weeks after injury. Results. Thirty-seven 135 over period. Western Cape Province cases ( n =52; 39%), followed Gauteng =35; 26%) KwaZulu-Natal =29; 21%). median age 30.5 years majority male (89%). Forty-three percent either shot or stabbed prior this Fifty-two all required fixation surgery 11% wound debridement without fixation. HRQOL data collected successfully baseline, but follow-up for <25% cases. Conclusions. represent significant disease environment. This highlights several areas further management associated outcomes.