The pattern of stab injuries in Port Harcourt

All cases of stabbing reporting to the casualty Department of the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital (UPTH) between 1st January 1997 and 31st December, 1997 were studied prospectively. Fifty new cases reported within the study period. Thirteen cases required admission while 37 cases were treated and discharged from the casualty department. The majority of injuries were minor and most victims were male and of these, students in the age group 21 - 30 years formed the greatest number. The most common weapon used was broken bottle and injuries involving multiple anatomic regions were in the majority. All cases requiring major surgical intervention reported within 6 hours of injury. No mortality was recorded.