Pattern of Limb Injuries and Their Management in the Emergency Department at a Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Objective: To determine the pattern of limb injuries and their management in the emergency department of a tertiary care hospital.  

Methodology: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from January 2023 to June 2023 at the Department of General Surgery, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad. A total of 385 patients with limb injuries were enrolled using consecutive convenience sampling. Data on demographics, mechanism of injury, type and severity of injury, diagnostic modalities, and management strategies were collected using a structured proforma and analyzed using SPSS version 25.

Results: The mean age was 35 years (range 16–65 years), with male predominance (65%). Road traffic accidents (RTAs), particularly motorcycle-related incidents, were the leading cause (60%). Fractures were the most common injury type (40%). Conservative management was employed in 50% of cases, while surgical fixation was performed in 25%. X-rays were the most frequently used diagnostic modality (60%).

Conclusion: Motorcycle-related RTAs are the predominant cause of limb injuries in our setting, with fractures being the most common injury. While conservative management suffices for a substantial proportion of cases, surgical fixation remains essential for severe injuries. Enhanced road safety measures and strengthening of trauma care infrastructure are recommended.