Pattern and outcome of management of fractures in a Nigerian community

Abstract

Background: There has been increasing incidence of road traffic accidents and gun shot injuries in Benin City in the recent past. A major complication of these events is fracture of the bones. Various patterns of fractures are reported from different communities. Aim: To determine the pattern and outcome of fractures in Ikpoba Hill, a sub-urban community in Edo State. Methods: A retrospective study of all cases of fractures that presented to “Our Medical Centre” in Ikpoba Hill, a sub-urban community in Edo State between January 1998 and December 2004 was carried out. Parameters analysed included age, sex, and occupation, cause of fracture, site of fracture, associated injuries, treatment offered and outcome of management. Results: A total of 285 cases of fractures were seen over the period of study. There was a steady increase in the number of cases of fractures over the period of study. The 20 -29 years age group was more commonly affected (25.61%). The male: female ratio was 1.9: 1. Civil servants and business people were most commonly affected (36.49% and 24.56% respectively). The humerus was the bone most commonly affected (24.32%). Road traffic accident was the commonest aetiological factor accounting for 80%. Some 69.47% of the cases discharged themselves against medical advice to seek help with a traditional bonesetter. Head injury was the commonest cause of death (44.44%). The average duration of hospital stay was 21 days. Conclusion: Road traffic accident was a common cause of fracture. The humerus was the bone most commonly fractured. Most patients with fracture prefer to patronize the traditional bone setters. Public enlightenment campaign should be mounted to discourage the attitude of most patients with fracture seeking help in traditional bonesetters\' place. Port Harcourt Medical Journal Vol. 1(1) September 2006: 17-21