Challenges in trauma management in a developing economy

Abstract

Introduction Trauma accounts for a significant proportion of death and disability globally, and the impact is particularly enormous in developing low-and middle-income countries. Apart from cost-effective preventive strategies to reduce the risk of trauma, the determinants of favourable outcomes following trauma include the immediate onsite emergency care, the expertise of manpower, availability of infrastructure and appropriate facilities for care and access to specialised care. In many developing countries challenged by multiple communicable and non-communi-cable disorders, compounded by ail-ing and rudimentary health systems and inadequate manpower (in terms of absolute numbers and depth of experience and training), there is a disparate unacceptably higher mortality and morbidity from trauma compared to developed countries. The aim of this review was to discuss the challenges in trauma management in developing countries.