Pattern of Paediatric Ocular Trauma among Patients Presenting to Civil Hospital, Karachi
Keywords:
Paediatric, ocular trauma, ocular injuries, road traffic accidents, paediatric trauma, paediatric injuriesAbstract
Objective: To evaluate the frequency and epidemiological features of ocular trauma among paediatric patients.
Methodology: This prospective cross-sectional study enrolled 264 patients aged 16 years or younger, of either gender, who presented with ocular trauma to the Paediatric Eye Outpatient Department and/or Emergency Department of Civil Hospital, Karachi, between January 2023 and January 2024, after approval of the research protocol and obtaining parental consent. Detailed history, ocular examinations, and visual acuity assessments (using age-appropriate methods) were performed, along with slit-lamp and fundus examinations, as well as imaging investigations where necessary. Patients with non-traumatic ophthalmic complaints or a history of prior ocular trauma or surgical intervention for the same were excluded.
Results: Among 264 children examined, 70% were boys and 30% girls, with a mean age of 7.59 ± 4.11 years. The 0–5-year age group was most affected (66%), while the 11–15-year age group was least affected (4%). Right-eye involvement predominated (66%), compared to 33% left-eye and a few bilateral cases. At presentation, 85% had visual acuity between 6/6 and 6/12, whereas 5.7% had no light perception. Most patients (78.4%) presented within 24 hours, and only 0.8% after one week. Road traffic accidents were the leading cause of injury, followed by accidents in playgrounds and at home.
Conclusion: Collaboration with paediatric associations is essential for introducing educational and social initiatives that highlight the seriousness of the issue and advocate for safer environments.
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