What is the mortality rate for falls with head injuries?

From the Research

The mortality rate for falls with head injuries can range from 4% to 50%, with the most recent and highest quality study suggesting that chest and head injuries with low GCS indicate a high risk of mortality from a fall from height 1.

Factors Affecting Mortality

• Age is a critical factor, with elderly patients (over 65) experiencing mortality rates two to three times higher than younger adults for similar injuries
• The severity of the head injury, measured by tools like the Glasgow Coma Scale, strongly predicts outcomes
• Other factors affecting mortality include the height of the fall, presence of multiple injuries, pre-existing medical conditions, and how quickly medical care is received

Importance of Immediate Medical Attention

• Immediate medical attention is crucial for any fall resulting in loss of consciousness, confusion, severe headache, vomiting, seizures, or clear fluid from the nose or ears
• Treatment typically involves stabilization, neurological assessment, imaging, and potentially surgery for severe cases

Critical Period for Survival

• The first 24-48 hours after injury are particularly critical for survival, and even survivors may face long-term neurological complications

Recent Study Findings

• A recent study published in 2025 found that domestic falls had more injuries to the head and chest and longer intensive care unit (ICU) stay compared to border falls 1
• The study also found that chest and head injuries with low GCS indicated a high risk of mortality from a fall from height 1