Manzoor Ali.
An audit of 636 cases of head injuries admitted to general surgery unit in district Swat.
Med Channel Jan ;11(2):39-42.

OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to analyze all cases of head injury admitted to the general surgical unit and to understand and treat all these cases as they are usually mismanaged due to lake of understanding the proper management of such cases. DESJGN: Prospective study. PLACE AND DURATION: The study was carried out at the department of General Surgery, at the central wing of Saidu Group of Teaching Hospitals, Swat from Jan 2002-Dec 2003. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: A data of every patient admitted with head injury to the surgical unit was obtained and analyzed including age, sex, cause of injury, findings, management and their discharge or referral. RESULTS: Total cases admitted were 636, in which children of up to 10 years were 354(56%); males were more affected than females 562(67%). Falls was the major cause in 506(80%) cases.70 (11%) patients were referred to neurosurgical unit.4(0.63%) patients died. Medico legal element was in 130(20.44%). 496(78%) patients were mild head injury. Out of the 70 severe head injury patients 56(80%) had other systemic injuries. Modern management of head injury was carried out. CONCLUSION: Head injuries are frequently admitted to general surgery units worldwide for observation mainly and some are referred to neurosurgical units. The aim of this study was to evaluate, treat and understand head injury and make referrals in good time if required.

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