Exploring the Prevalence of PTSD in Hand Trauma: A Comprehensive Study

Abstract

Hand trauma is a common and debilitating condition that can have significant physical, functional, and psychological effects on individuals. This study used a case–control design to investigate the frequency and factors associated with symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) in a sample of individuals with complex hand and forearm injuries. Our hypothesis suggests that demographic data, among other factors, influences the intensity of PTSD symptoms measured by the PCL-5 scale three months post-surgery. This study included 166 individuals, 142 males and 24 females, with an average age of 42.14 years (SD = 12.71). Our study found significant associations between symptoms of PTSD and various demographic and clinical factors. PTSD symptoms were observed in females, individuals from specific regions, and certain socio-professional groups. Furthermore, educational attainment and personal background have been identified as significant factors in the development of PTSD. The role of trauma type was crucial, amputees and fractures were more prone to developing PTSD. A strong link was found between increased symptoms of PTSD and negative postoperative outcomes, including amputation of necessity and the need for additional surgery. The absence of family support exacerbates the psychological distress of trauma survivors. The findings highlight the intricate nature of PTSD development and underscore the significance of a comprehensive postoperative treatment strategy encompassing psychological assessment and support.