Pattern of hand injuries in osogbo, South-west Nigeria

Injury to the hand leads to loss of function with attendant psychological consequences. Epidemiological studies of hand injuries from our environment are few; hence the need for this study.

To assess the epidemiology of hand injuries with a view to suggesting some methods of preventing the injuries in our environment.

This study was carried out in a Plastic surgery unit of a teaching hospital in Nigeria.

A retrospective review of the epidemiology of hand injuries in Osogbo, Nigeria was done. Sources of information include the case notes and operating registers. Information obtained includes biodata, aetiologies, pattern of injuries, presentation, treatment as well as complications.

A total of 74 patients with hand injuries were managed during the study period comprising of 53 males and 21 females. The age group 21-30 was the most affected. Students form the largest group affected with 24(32.4%) followed by artisans, 16 (21.6%). The most common source of hand injuries was road traffic crash with 29 (39.2%) patients. Others were Blast injuries, 2 (2.8%), avulsion from grinding machines, 10 (13.5%), other domestic accidents, 6 (8.2%), broken bottles, 4 (5.4%), glass cut, 4 (5.4%), farm accidents, 6 (8.2%), electrical burns, 4 (5.4%), gunshot injuries, 3 (4.0%), thermal burns, 6 (8.1%) and constricting ring, 4 (5.4%). Injuries involved only the right hand in 36 (48.6%) patients, the left, 28 (37.8%) patients and both hands, 10 (13.5%) patients. Anatomical disruptions observed included avulsion, 14 (18.9%) patients, burn, 6 (8.1%)patients, bruises, 2 (2.7%) patients, crush injuries, 13 (17.6%), laceration, 24(33.8%), fractures/dislocation, 14(18,9%), and digital gangrene, 1(1.4%) patient.

Hand injury prevention will include provision of safe road and education of the people on the use of tools and machines in our environment.