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Camel bite injuries in United Arab Emirates: a 6 year prospective study
Fikri M Abu-Zidan1, Hani O Eid, Ashraf F Hefny
1Trauma Group, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, UAE University, United Arab Emirates. fabuzidan@uaeu.ac.ae
Injury
|December 22, 2011
Summary
Camel bite injuries are severe, often occurring during the rutting season, and can result in serious harm, including fractures and spinal cord injuries. Patient outcomes vary, with a low mortality rate but potential for significant disability.
Area of Science:
- Traumatology
- Veterinary Medicine
- Public Health
Background:
- Camel bite injuries represent a significant, yet understudied, cause of trauma.
- Understanding the epidemiology and mechanisms of these injuries is crucial for prevention and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To prospectively investigate the incidence, mechanisms, injury patterns, and outcomes of camel bite injuries.
- To identify risk factors and contributing factors, such as camel behavior during the rutting season.
Main Methods:
- Prospective study of patients admitted to Al-Ain Hospital from October 2001 to October 2007.
- Data collection included patient demographics, injury mechanism, camel behavior, injury distribution and severity, and patient outcomes.
Main Results:
- 33 male patients, predominantly from the Indian subcontinent, were studied.
- Most injuries occurred during the rutting season (November-March), with caregivers and child jockeys being vulnerable groups.
- Upper limb and head/face were common injury sites, with fractures noted in 48% of upper limb injuries. Severe outcomes included ICU admission, brain infarction, and quadriplegia, with a 3% mortality rate.
Conclusions:
- Camel behavior, particularly during the rutting season, is a key factor in severe bite injuries.
- Injury mechanisms are complex, involving penetrating, crushing, and blunt force trauma.
- Emphasizes the need for caution when handling camels, especially during their rutting period.
