Epidemiological profile of patients treated by the plastic surgery service of the João XXIII hospital in Belo Horizonte/MG from March to August 2013

ABSTRACT

Introduction:

The Plastic Surgery Service of the João XXIII Hospital provides support to other specialties through interdepartmental consultation and follows patients admitted to the hospital for plastic surgery. This study analyzed the epidemiological profile of patients treated from March to August 2013.

Methods:

This was a prospective observational study with data collection performed by medical history and physical examination.

Results:

Of the patients evaluated, 75.23% were male and 21.34% female. The predominant age group was economically active, with 62.86% of the patients between 16 and 45 years. Traffic accidents were the main reason for care (44.85%). Pressure ulcers were the most frequent diagnoses, and other lesions evaluated were predominantly of the extremities. Internal Medicine and Orthopedics requested most consultations. Surgical treatment (52.9%) and follow-up with local care (47.1%) showed similar frequencies.

Conclusion:

In order to propose measures for prevention and treatment of injuries within the scope of reconstructive plastic surgery, two issues were highlighted: traffic accidents and pressure ulcers. Both have well-defined causes, but remain at high prevalence. The need for public action that promotes better traffic education and reduction of accidents is clear. In the hospital environment, it is essential to take effective measures to prevent the emergence of dreaded pressure ulcers.

Keywords:
Plastic surgery; Epidemiology; High-volume Hospitals; Inpatients; Surgical specialties; Diagnosis