Ocular trauma: 2 years retrospective study in sari, iran

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Ocular trauma is a major cause of preventable blindness and disability in developing countries.
• Understanding the etiology and epidemiology of eye injuries is crucial for developing effective prevention strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the prevalence and epidemiological characteristics of ocular trauma.
• To identify risk factors and patterns of eye injuries in Northern Iran.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study analyzing 178 patient case notes admitted to University Hospital Boo-Ali-Sina.
• Data collected using a proforma and classified according to the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10).

Main Results:

• The study included 178 patients, with a higher prevalence in males (75.8%) and individuals living in villages (55.1%).
• Injuries were most frequent in winter (30.9%), with open eyelid wounds (22.5%) being the most common diagnosis.
• Blunt object contact (12.4%) was a significant mode of trauma, predominantly affecting the left eye.

Conclusions:

• Ocular trauma prevention requires comprehensive education and the use of safety equipment.
• Young workers represent a high-risk group necessitating targeted educational interventions.
• Preventive strategies should also consider vulnerable populations at both ends of the age spectrum.