[Seasonal distribution of diagnoses and DRG in trauma surgery].

BACKGROUND

Recording DRGs and diagnoses allows their distribution to be shown over the course of the year. Thus, cumulative seasonal occurrence of diseases can be detected.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From 2004 to 2010 we recorded 22,293 main diagnoses and DRGs at the clinic for trauma surgery. Injuries with the same localization and treatment were pooled.

RESULTS

The most frequent injuries were concussion, followed by spinal and lower leg fractures. They showed no seasonal accumulation. Proximal fractures of the humerus occurred approx. 25% more often in winter and ankle fractures about 33% more frequently. The diagnosis of osteoarthritis of the knee is twice as high in the winter as in the summer.

CONCLUSION

It has to be verified if logistic conclusions of these results can lead to more efficiency in a hospital. The underlying analysis is applicable for every hospital and poses a valid controlling tool.