Characteristics of Open-Globe Injuries in Northwestern Portugal

Purpose: We aimed to characterize epidemiologically open-globe injuries and patterns of posttraumatic endophthalmitis in northwestern Portugal. Methods: A retrospective review of 163 inpatients with a diagnosis of traumatic open-globe injury treated at the ophthalmology department of the hospital S. Joao was performed. Results: No cases were reported in patients wearing proper eye protection. Of the 163 eyes, 76.0% were from male patients. The mean age of the males was significantly lower than that of the females (35.6 vs. 56.0 years; p < 0.001), and 57.1% of the cases resulted from personal accidents. The prevalence of intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) was 29.6%; IOFBs are more frequent at work (50%) and with metallic objects (50%). The endophthalmitis incidence was 5.7% with a trend for a higher risk with IOFBs. Laceration due to plants increased this risk. Conclusions: Personal accidents are the most important cause of open-globe injuries. Special relevance should be given to prevention with appropriate eyewear in home chores. Work-related trauma is more associated with IOFB; imaging is fundamental in emergency department evaluation. Copyright (C) 2010 S. Karger AG, Basel