Analysis of Ocular Firework-Related Injuries and Common Eye Traumata: a 5-year Clinical Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Trauma Surgery
• Public Health

Background:

• Eye injuries are a significant concern during celebratory periods.
• Comparative analysis of ocular trauma from fireworks versus acts of violence.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare the incidence and characteristics of eye injuries sustained around New Year's Eve and Swiss National Day.
• To identify risk factors and injury patterns associated with firework-related and violence-induced eye trauma.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective analysis of emergency ophthalmology consultations over five years.
• Categorization of injuries into firework-related and violence-related subgroups.
• Analysis of patient demographics, injury specifics, severity, interventions, and visual outcomes.

Main Results:

• New Year's Eve saw twice the number of eye injuries compared to Swiss National Day.
• Firework and violence-related injuries predominantly affected the anterior segment, with posterior segment involvement more common in firework incidents.
• Severe trauma cases were significantly more frequent around New Year's Eve, particularly from fireworks.

Conclusions:

• Ocular trauma rates from fireworks and violence are substantially higher during New Year's Eve celebrations.
• Fireworks account for a larger proportion of severe eye injuries during this period.
• Public awareness campaigns and professional firework displays are recommended to mitigate these preventable injuries.