The Relationship between orthopaedic Trauma and PTSD: Developing Effective Interventions for Prevention and Treatment in this Population

Introduction: Orthopaedic trauma is a significant risk factor for the development of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). The impact of PTSD on an individual's mental health highlights the need for effective prevention and treatment interventions in this population. In this systematic review, we aimed to examine the relationship between orthopaedic trauma and PTSD and identify effective interventions for prevention and treatment. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Psyc INFO. Studies published between 2010 and 2022 were included in this review. The inclusion criteria included studies that examined the relationship between orthopaedic trauma and PTSD and studies that evaluated interventions for preventing or treating PTSD in this population. Results: The literature review found that individuals who experience orthopaedic trauma are at an increased risk of developing PTSD compared to those who experience other types of trauma. The studies also highlighted effective interventions for preventing and treating PTSD in this population, including cognitive-behavioural therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and pharmacotherapy. Discussion: The results of this review emphasize the importance of healthcare professionals being aware of the increased risk of PTSD in individuals who experience orthopaedic trauma. Evidence-based interventions, such as cognitive-behavioural therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and pharmacotherapy, should be considered when treating patients who have experienced orthopaedic trauma. Further research is needed to explore the effectiveness of different interventions and identify other effective strategies for preventing and treating PTSD in this population. Conclusion: Orthopaedic trauma is a significant risk factor for PTSD, and effective interventions are necessary to prevent and treat PTSD in this population. Healthcare professionals should consider incorporating evidence-based interventions into their practice. The findings of this review suggest that cognitive-behavioural therapy, eye movement desensitization and reprocessing therapy, and pharmacotherapy are effective interventions for preventing and treating PTSD in this population. Further research is needed to identify other effective strategies for preventing and treating PTSD in this population. Highlights: Orthopaedic trauma can lead to posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in some patients, with an incidence ranging from 5% to 63% depending on injury severity and comorbidities. Effective interventions for preventing and treating PTSD in this population include routine screening for PTSD, early identification of risk factors, and referral to mental health professionals. Cognitive-behavioural therapy (CBT) and eye movement desensitization and reprocessing (EMDR) are effective treatments for PTSD in patients with orthopaedic trauma, while pain management may also reduce the risk of PTSD development.