A Clinical Study of Aetiology and Epidemiology of Corneal Lacerations

Abstract

Background: Corneal Lacerations due to trauma are one of the common causes of Visual impairment.

Objectives: To evaluate the etiological and epidemiological profile of Corneal Lacerations.

Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study in department of Cornea, Sarojini Devi Eye Hospital, Osmania Medical College, Hyderabad over a period from August 2007 to April 2012. 50 Patients of Traumatic corneal lacerations were evaluated. The details of type of causative agent with type of activity when eye injury occurred and data of age, sex, urban/ rural and occupation were collected and analysed.

Results: The study group was 50 patients of traumatic corneal lacerations.  31(62%) were males with 19(38%) females. Age distribution was 8(16%) in >10 -20yrs, 22 (44%) in 21 – 30yrs, 15(30%) in 31 -40yrs and 5(10.0%) in 40 - 60yrs. Laterality was 17 (34.0%) RE and 33 (66.0%) LE. 29(58.0%) were from Rural with 21(42.0%) Urban. 34(68.0%) were in agriculture and 16(32.0%) in other occupations. The type of causative agent was wood in 21(42%), Stones in 14 (28%), Iron in 9(18%), Glass in 3(6%), Human nails in 2(4%) and Ball pen in 1(2%). The injuries were at work 38(76.0%), at home 7(14.0%) and road accidents 5(10.0%).

Conclusions:  Nearly all the causes were avoidable. The majority of the injuries occurred at the work place due to the work related agents. The prevalence was significantly higher with rural agricultural background. Adequate eye protection is often a simple step.