Bite wounds: epidemiology and treatment

Abstract

Objective : To highlight the problem and up-to-date methods of treatment of bite wounds that will help to reduce infectious com­plications, poor cosmetic and functional results. Methods : in the period of 2012–2014 in Lviv from the bites of animals there were affected 2456 people of whom 510 (344 children and 166 adults) were treated at the hospitals. Majority of affected people have been bitten by dogs — 1 993 (81.1 %), cats — 383 (15.6 %), rodents and other animals — 80 (3.3 %). Localization of injuries was: head, neck — in 58 (11.4 %) patients; upper limbs — 172 (33.7 %); thorax, abdomen, back, buttocks, genitals — 27 (5.3 %); lower limbs — 165 (32.4 %); combination of different anatomical areas — 88 (17.2 %). Antiabic vaccination carried out in 1078 patients. It were noted two post-vaccination reactions. Results : The high level of trauma registered since June to September. Localization of bite depended on age and sex of the victim: in children up to 5 years lips, cheeks, nose, eyelids, neck and upper limbs more often affected, and in elderly patients - lower limbs. Often causes of infectious complications were delays in medical care seeking, selftreatment, inadequate tactics of treatment. Mechanical cleaning of the wound, removal of nonviable tissues, washing with antiseptic solutions are the most important links in prevention of infectious complications of bite wounds. If necessary there was performed a plastic of defects with local tissues or autodermaplasty, used stalked and rotary skin flaps. Damaged blood vessels, nerves and tendons were restored during surgical manipulation. In the case of bone fractures metalosteosynthesis with Kirschner wires and with apparatus of external fixation was conducted. Conclusion: better cosmetic results can be achieved just with adequate sanitation and closure of the wound at the time of initial processing. The decision to close the wound based on the risk of its infection, depending on the location, severity and prescription of injury, age and co­morbidities in the patient.