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World Journal of Surgery
Published in: World Journal of Surgery 11/2017

01-11-2017 | Original Scientific Report

Epidemiology of Traumatic Injuries at an Urban Hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti

Authors: Christopher Zuraik, John Sampalis

Published in: World Journal of Surgery | Issue 11/2017

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Abstract

Background

Traumatic injuries represent a major burden of disease worldwide. Haiti lacks statistics on the epidemiology of traumatic injuries, as there is no formal injury surveillance program. This study will assess the burden of traumatic injuries in an urban trauma center in the capital city of Port-au-Prince, Haiti.

Methods

A retrospective, cross-sectional chart review study at an urban trauma hospital was carried out for the period December 1, 2015, to January 31, 2016. Data were obtained through the hospital’s main patient logbook, medical charts, and trauma registry forms. Data on medical documentation, demographics, and injury characteristics were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results

A total of 410 patients were evaluated for treatment of traumatic injuries during the 2-month study. The mean age in years was 30, with 66.3% male and 78.4% less than 41 years of age. There were 6.6 injuries per day and no correlation between frequency of injury and day of the week. Road traffic accidents accounted for 43.0% of trauma modes. The mean and median length of stay were 6.6 and 3.0 days. 9.0% of patients suffered severe trauma (ISS ≥ 16). 21.0% of patients with traumatic brain injury suffered severe head injuries. Extremity trauma was the most frequently injured anatomical region (50.0%). 22.7% of patients were admitted, and 15.1% patients underwent at least one surgical procedure.

Conclusions

Road traffic accidents are the primary reason for injury; thus, prevention initiatives and improved trauma care may provide substantial public health benefits.
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Metadata
Title
Epidemiology of Traumatic Injuries at an Urban Hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti
Authors
Christopher Zuraik
John Sampalis
Publication date
01-11-2017
Publisher
Springer International Publishing
Published in
World Journal of Surgery / Issue 11/2017
Print ISSN: 0364-2313
Electronic ISSN: 1432-2323
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/s00268-017-4088-2

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