Profile of hand injuries in a specialist hospital in a developing country

Abstract

Background:Hand injuries are common in this environment.They are rarely life threatening but can cause serious handicap.There is paucity of studies addressing the pattern and management of hand injuries in this locality.

Patients and Methods: This is a one year prospective study (July 2011 to June 2012).All patients with hand injury that presented to the hospital and met inclusion criteria were recruited.The data was analyzed using the SPSS 17.0).Results were presented in tables,bar and pie charts using Microsoft Excel 2007.

Results: 118 patients presented with hand injuries, representing 5.4% of the total number of patients seen. 8 were excluded from the study.87 (79.1%) were males and 23 (20.9%) were females.The mean age was 25.7yrs with a range of 0.8 to 80yrs and peak of 21- 30yrs. Students were most commonly affected; 29 (26.4%).The most common cause was domestic accident; 31 (28.2%), while fireworks resulted in 6 (5.5%) of injuries. 10 (9.1%) presented with gangrene.99 (90%) completed treatment while 10 (9.1%) signed against medical advice and 1 (0.9%) referred.

Conclusion:Hand injuries are common with slight variation in  pattern.Efforts should be made to reduce the incidence and improve initial care.

Key words: Profile,Hand injuries,Developing country.