Work tool-related eye injuries: Helsinki Ocular Trauma Study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Occupational Health
• Trauma Surgery

Background:

• Work tool-related eye injuries represent a significant cause of ocular trauma.
• Understanding their epidemiology and outcomes is crucial for prevention and treatment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To quantify and characterize the epidemiology, treatments, long-term outcomes, and resource utilization of work tool-related eye injuries.
• To assess the severity and impact of these injuries.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective study of patients with work tool-related eye injuries treated at Helsinki University Eye Hospital over one year.
• Data collected from hospital records, examinations, and patient questionnaires.
• Follow-up assessments at 3 months and 6 years.

Main Results:

• Work tools accounted for 3% of all eye injuries, with an annual incidence of 2.4/100,000.
• Manual tools and nails were primary causes of high-risk injuries, including open globe injuries (OGI).
• Permanent impairment occurred in 30% of cases, with four patients blinded; 15 required lifelong follow-up.

Conclusions:

• Work tool-related eye injuries have a higher proportion of permanent impairment compared to other causes.
• Manual tools are particularly associated with severe outcomes, including OGI and permanent vision loss.
• Targeted prevention strategies focusing on manual tool safety are warranted.