Trend of ocular trauma in patients attending Shri B.M. Patil Medical College, Hospital and Research Center, Vijayapura during COVID -19 pandemic

Abstract

Background: The COVID-19 social distancing measures might have a significant impact on ocular trauma risk which is a major cause of monocular blindness. The pattern of ocular injuries in a region depends upon the activities of the people residing in that area. Despite the major socioeconomic impact, less data is available on the magnitude & risk factors of ocular trauma. Objectives: To study the changing trend of ocular injuries in and around the Vijayapura District before and during the COVID -19 pandemic. Methods: The study was conducted in BLDE Hospital from November 2019-July 2020. Data were analyzed from 24th March 2020 (i.e. the beginning of quarantine measures in Vijayapura District) to July 2020 and confronted with those before the quarantine period (November 2019-24 March 2020). All cases underwent a detailed ocular examination of the anterior and posterior segment with required investigations. Results: In the PRE-COVID study period, there were 47 eye injuries (73.4%); during COVID eye injuries decreased to 17 (26.6%). In both, the study period males were affected more than females. PRE-COVID the proportion of eye injuries was more in adults (34-50 years) however during COVID we see a sharp decline in the age affecting teenage adults (15-34 years). Closed globe injuries were the most common mechanism of injury in the PRE-COVID period (46.8%) trend changed towards injuries involving only ocular adnexa (40%) during the COVID period. Conclusion: There is a drop-in patients seeking emergency eye care COVID-19 pandemic which affected all injuries. Behavioural change during quarantine could be associated with a lower rate of ocular trauma.

Keywords

• covid-19
• ocular trauma
• vijayapura