Hospital struggles to cope with winter injuries

With the weather conditions, the number of patients injured on slippery pavements have tripled over the past week, Rīga 2nd Hospital reported January 18.

The hospital said that the influx of patients caused an emergency in traumatology and orthopedics and almost all elective surgeries would be canceled until January 26.

The hospital said the influx of patients affected the medical facility's work, waiting times, and the timetable for performing operations.

Elective surgeries, except endoprosthetic surgeries, have been canceled from January 18 to January 26 and, given the circumstances, medical care currently needed is given priority to patients with acute injury.

Up to 90 patients per day are brought to the admissions unit during the winter period, most of them falling on slippery pavements. Most commonly, patients have typical fractures to their hands and arms, with about a third requiring immediate hospitalization.

To reduce the risk of a fall, doctors ask that people be careful, avoid going out if there is no need, and wear footwear suitable for winter weather.

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