OCULAR TRAUMA: PATTERNS, RISK FACTORS, AND CLINICAL CHARACTERISTICS IN PATIENTS ATTENDING A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
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Keywords
Ocular trauma, Epidemiology, Risk factors, Visual impairment, Open-globe injury, Occupational hazards.
Abstract
Background: Ocular trauma is a major cause of preventable visual impairment worldwide, particularly in developing regions where occupational hazards, low awareness, and limited use of protective measures contribute to a high burden. Understanding local patterns and clinical profiles is essential for improving prevention strategies and optimizing management outcomes.
Objectives: To assess the patterns, risk factors, and clinical characteristics of ocular trauma among patients attending a tertiary care hospital in Udaipur.
Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology at a tertiary care hospital in Udaipur from January to August 2025. A total of 120 patients with ocular trauma were enrolled using consecutive sampling. Data were collected using a structured proforma, including demographic details, mechanism of injury, type of trauma, presenting visual acuity, clinical findings, and management. Ocular trauma was classified using the Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology System (BETTS). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.0. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied, and p-values <0.05 were considered statistically significant.
Results: The mean age of participants was 32.8 ± 14.6 years, with the highest proportion (45%) between 21–40 years. Males constituted 79.2% of cases. Occupational injuries (30%) and domestic accidents (25%) were the most common causes, while only 9.2% reported using protective eyewear. Closed-globe injuries (65.8%) were more frequent than open-globe injuries (34.2%). Common anterior segment findings included corneal abrasion (22.5%), subconjunctival hemorrhage (18.3%), and hyphema (13.3%). Posterior segment involvement was present in 21.7% of cases. Surgical intervention was required in 30.8% of patients, predominantly among those with open-globe injuries and poor presenting visual acuity.
Conclusion: The study highlights that ocular trauma predominantly affects young working-age males and is largely preventable. Lack of protective measures and delayed hospital presentation remain key contributors to poor visual outcomes. Strengthening occupational safety practices, community awareness, and timely access to eye care services is crucial to reducing the burden of ocular trauma.
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Dr Meet Raninga
Post Graduate Student, Department of Ophthalmology, Pacific Medical College and Hospital, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Dr Abhijeet Khake
Associate Professor, Department of Ophthalmology, Pacific Medical College and Hospital, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Dr Tanya Dabas
Post Graduate Student, Department of Ophthalmology, Pacific Medical College and Hospital, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Dr Jay Raninga
MD (General Physician), Raninga Hospital, Junagadh, Gujarat, India
Dr Jatin Prajapati
Post Graduate Student, Department of Community Medicine, RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
Dr Shivani Vihan
Post Graduate Student, Department of Community Medicine, RNT Medical College, Udaipur, Rajasthan, India
