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East and Central African Journal of Surgery
Association of Surgeons of East Africa and College of Surgeons of East Central and Southern Africa
ISSN: 1024-297X EISSN: 1024-297X
Vol. 19, No. 2, 2014, pp. 49-54
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Bioline Code: js14032
Full paper language: English
Document type: Research Article
Document available free of charge
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East and Central African Journal of Surgery, Vol. 19, No. 2, 2014, pp. 49-54
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Presentation and Pattern of Paediatric Head Injury in a Nigerian Tertiary Care Centre: A 7-Years Experience
Onyemkpa, C.J.; Oguzie, G.C. & Chukwumam, D.C.
Abstract
Background:
Head injury is a public health concern that constitutes a significant cause of
morbidity and mortality globally. Universally, this menace has not spared children of its
catastrophic impacts on the quality of life. This study is designed to focus on the
characteristics of head injuries among children.
Methods:
A retrospective analysis of all the pediatric cases of head injury that were
admitted into the wards form January 2007 till December 2013 was done. Data obtained
were analyzed using SPSS 15.
Results:
A total of 101 patients were studied: 61(60.4%) males and 40 females (39.6%).
Children 6 to 12 years were most affected and Road traffic accidents were the most
common cause. A significant change in the trend of etiologic factors was noted with a
decline in the contribution of road traffic accidents over the years (P 0.036). Mild head
injuries were the most common form of head injuries seen.
Conclusion:
The downward trend in road traffic accidents as a cause of head injury over the
years is laudable as it portrays some progress in the development of safety measures.
However, more efforts at generating strategies aimed at improving the safety of our roads
for children are an imperative.
Keywords
Presentation; Paediatric; Head injury; Nigeria
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© Copyright 2014 - East and Central African Journal of Surgery
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