Abstract

Background/aim: Ear, nose and throat (ENT) injuries are a problem in children and adults worldwide. The aim of this study was to evaluate the patterns, etiological factors, management and outcomes of ear, nose and throat injuries in Ido Ekiti, Nigeria.

Methods: This was a prospective study of consecutive patients with Ear, Nose and Throat injuries that presented through accident and emergency (A&E) unit and were managed at our Centre between June 2011 and May 2013 (24 months period). Data collected included patients’ demography; type and pattern of injuries sustained, clinical presentation, causes as well as outcome of treatment. Injuries recorded were classified based on their mechanisms into RTA, falls, assault, gunshot and burns related.

Results: Out of 473 patients seen in Accident and Emergency that had trauma during the study period, a total of 116 patients had ear, nose and throat related injury. Out of these about 94 patients (81.0%) were males and 22 (19.0%) were females giving a male: female ratio of 4.3:1. Their age ranged was from 2-71 years with a mean of 35.89 ± 17.24 SD years. The highest number of injuries occurred within the age group of 21-40 years accounting for 53.4%. Traders/Business accounted for 31.0% of the injured patients. The commonest cause of injury was road traffic accident in 84 (72.4%). Majority (59.5%), of the patients presents in the accident and emergency unit within 6 h of injury. Nasal injuries were the commonest in 53.6% patients. Traumatic epistaxis was the highest presentation in nasal injury whereas Bruises, abrasions, lacerations and cuts were major injuries to the ear. Wound debridement/suturing and dressings were the commonest treatment offered in 69.8% of the patients. No mortality related to ENT injuries was recorded.

Conclusion: Road traffic accidents (RTAs) remain the leading cause of ear, nose and throat injuries in our center. Nasal injuries were the commonest. Majority of these injuries can be prevented through health education, public enlightenment campaigns. Early presentation is recommended to reduce morbidity and mortality.