Dog Bites Distribution and Management in Head and Neck Region

Abstract

th , 2013 Accepted: August 26 th , 2013 ABSTRACT Introduction: The Head and Neck region is the most vulnerable area for dog bites in children. Surgical management is an emergency to prevent infection, functional and aesthetic outcomes. The aim of this study was to find the age group, sex and area of population which is most susceptible to dog bites, and to determine the best treatment policy. Materials and Method: Fifty-eight patients with dog bites who were bitten by stray dogs in the above mentioned area of the body were included in the study. All the patients were managed by resuscitation and washing of wound thoroughly with soap and water. After that, debridement of wound was done if required. In Fresh wounds with no significant skin loss, primary closure of wound was done in one group of patients using minimum possible stitches with 5 0' proline thread. In the other group, wound was left for healing by secondary intention. Results: This study showed that 62 % of patients were from rural area. Dog bites in head and neck region were more common in males than in females (60% and 40% respectively). Most patients were in the age group of 6 to 10 years. Highest number of patients had bites on cheek (31%). Out of 58 patients, 48 had healthy wounds and 16 patients had necrotic wounds. In the primary closure subgroup of wounds, we observed that those patients had a cosmetically good scar, shorter healing time and lesser analgesic requirements as compared to subgroup of patients in which the wounds were allowed to heal by secondary intention. Conclusions: Male children in rural areas are most susceptible to dog bite injuries. This study shows that primary repair of healthy dog bite wounds has many advantages and should be done in all such cases.