Health ramifications and recovery avenues for Sudan's April 2023 armed conflict: A review

Background: Sudan's history is marred by ongoing sociopolitical challenges, with deep cultural divisions fueling numerous wars. A new conflict erupted on April 15, 2023, pushing the country closer to a full-scale civil war. This war has severely crippled Sudan's already fragile healthcare system, rendering 70% of hospitals in combat zones nonoperational, causing 12,000 deaths, thousands of injuries, and leaving 11 million in dire need of healthcare. More than seven million people are displaced, half of which are children, and are facing severe health challenges, especially vulnerable groups. Heath situation is threatening with unchecked spread of outbreaks of communicable diseases that were previously controlled and marked failure in meeting the health demands of patients with noncommunicable diseases, reproductive and child health issues, and people with serious conditions that require adequate follow-up. Moreover, the projections threaten with more catastrophic consequences including famine, environmental destruction, and further displacement of people. This review article highlights the urgency of the situation and explores potential solutions to enrich global understanding of crisis management. Methods: To comprehensively assess the impact of the crisis and propose a way forward, we drew data by exploring search engines and databases such as Google, Humanitarian Agencies Websites, Google Scholer, and PubMed along with some relevant reports. The search terms included are "Sudan's war", "impact of war on healthcare systems", and "Sudan's armed conflicts". Results: More than 19 publications on the impact of the war on health in addition to periodic reports from international organizations and governmental authorities were reviewed. Conclusion: Although all publications point to the gravity of the situation and the need for prompt response, this crisis offers a unique opportunity to rebuild Sudan's struggling healthcare system with the principles of social accountability. Through domestic and international collaboration, this sector can become a model for similar nations, meeting the needs of its people and promoting sustainable development.

Panorama des dermatoses tumorales vues en consultation dermatologique au Centre National Hospitalier Universitaire Hubert Koutoukou Maga de Cotonou au Bénin / Overview of tumoral dermatoses seen in dermatological consultation at the National University Hospital Center Hubert Koutoukou Maga in Cotonou, Benin

Introduction Les dermatoses tumorales sont des néoformations tissulaires dues à une prolifération cellulaire excessive, anormale, anarchique et plus ou moins autonome, aux dépens de la peau et de ses annexes. Ces dermatoses tumorales peuvent être bénignes, malignes ou à malignité limitée. L'objectif de la présente étude est de répertorier l'ensemble des dermatoses tumorales vues en consultation dermatologique au CNHU-HKM de Cotonou. Patients et méthodes Etude transversale rétrospective et descriptive ayant porté sur les dossiers des patients vus pour des tumeurs cutanéo-muqueuses, dans le service de Dermatologie-vénérologie du Centre National Hospitalier Universitaire Hubert Koutoukou Maga (CNHU-HKM) de Cotonou, de 2009 à 2023. Les données épidémiologiques et cliniques ont été recueillies à partir des registres de consultations puis saisies et analysées avec les logiciels Excel, EPI-DATA et SPSS. Résultats Au total, 15627 nouveaux patients ont été enregistrés, dont 1221 atteints de dermatoses tumorales (7,81%). L'âge moyen était de 33 ans ± 18,71 ; la tranche d'âge la plus représentée était celle de 20 à 39 ans (46,30%). La sex-ratio était de 1,08. Les lésions étaient acquises chez 93,94% des patients. Trente-cinq types de dermatoses tumorales ont été colligés. Les tumeurs bénignes représentaient 95,43% des patients. Elles étaient dominées par les chéloïdes (25,34 %) suivies parles condylomes (17,50 %), les verrues (10,12%), le molluscum contagiosum (7,54 %), l'ensemble formé par les nævi et hamartomes (5,18 %) et les kystes sébacés (4,57 %). Les tumeurs malignes étaient rares et représentées par les carcinomes spinocellulaires (1,14%), basocellulaires (0,30%) et les mélanomes (0,30%). Les tumeurs à malignité limitée sont essentiellement représentées par la maladie de Kaposi retrouvée chez 2,05% des patients. Conclusion Les dermatoses tumorales sont relativement fréquentes en milieu hospitalier au Bénin. Elles sont dominées par les tumeurs bénignes avec à leur tête les chéloïdes et les condylomes

Introduction Tumoral dermatoses are tissue neoformations resulting from excessive, abnormal, anarchic, and somewhat autonomous cell proliferation, affecting the skin and its annexes. These tumoral dermatoses can be benign, malignant, or of limited malignancy. The aim of this study is to catalog all the tumoral dermatoses seen in dermatological consultation at NUHC- HKM in Cotonou. Patients and Methods This was a retrospective, descriptive cross-sectional study based on the files of patients seen for cutaneous or mucosal tumors in the Dermatology-Venereology department of the National University Hospital Center Hubert Koutoukou Maga (NUHC-HKM) in Cotonou, from 2009 to 2023. Epidemiological and clinical data were collected from consultation registers and analyzed using Excel, EPI-DATA, and SPSS software. A total of 15,627 new patients were registered, of which 1,221 were affected by tumoral dermatoses (7.81%). The average age was 33 years ± 18.71; the most represented age group was 20 to 39 years (46.30%). The sex ratio was 1.08. Thirty-five types of tumoral dermatoses were collected. The lesions were non congenital in 93.94% of patients. Benign tumors accounted for 95.43% of the patients. They were dominated by keloids (25.34%) followed by condylomas (17.50%), warts (10.12%), molluscum contagiosum (7.54%), the group formed by nevi and hamartomas (5.18%), and sebaceous cysts (4.57%). Malignant tumors were rare and represented by squamous cell carcinomas (1.14%), basal cell carcinomas (0.30%), and melanomas (0.30%). Tumors with limited malignancy were primarily represented by Kaposi's disease found in 2.05% of patients. Conclusion Tumoral dermatoses are relatively frequent in the hospital setting in Benin. They are dominated by benign tumors, headed by keloids and condylomas

Poly sensibilisation dans le cadre d'un eczéma de contact des mains chez une aide-ménagère dans le nord du Bénin / Poly sensitization in the context of hand contact eczema in a household helper in northern Benin

L'eczéma des mains est fréquent. Son étiologie est souvent multifactorielle comprenant les facteurs environnementaux et des facteurs individuels prédisposants. Il pose des problèmes de diagnostic étiologique en particulier dans un contexte de poly sensibilisation. Observation Il s'est agi d'une employée de maison âgée de 17 ans sans antécédents allergiques connus. Elle a développé un eczéma bilatéral des mains six mois après embauche. Le patch test avec la batterie standard européenne a montré une poly sensibilisation à plusieurs allergènes contenus dans les détergents et désinfectants. Le patch test aux gants est revenu négatif mais n'exclut pas son implication dans la survenue des lésions devant le caractère bilatéral et symétrique des lésions. Une réorientation professionnelle a été proposée devant le jeune âge de la travailleuse Conclusion La connaissance des allergènes en cause au cours d'un eczéma est un atout pour une meilleure prise en charge du patient mais leur identification n'est pas toujours aisée. La réorientation professionnelle lorsqu'elle est possible assure la guérison.

Introduction: Hand eczema is common. Its etiology is often multifactorial, including environmental factors and individual predisposing factors. It poses problems of etiological diagnosis, particularly in the context of poly sensitization. Observation: This case involved a 17-year-old domestic worker with no known allergic history. She developed bilateral hand eczema six months after hiring. The patch test with the standard European battery showed poly-sensitization to several allergens contained in detergents and disinfectants. The glove patch test came back negative, but did not rule out its involvement in the lesions, given the bilateral and symmetrical nature of the lesions. In view of the young age of the worker, a vocational reorientation was carried out. Conclusion: Knowledge of the allergens involved in eczema is an asset for better patient management, but identifying them is not always easy. When possible, professional reorientation ensures recovery

Aspects médico-légaux de la réparation des amputations traumatiques de membres en milieu professionnel reçues au Centre des Urgences de Yaoundé / Medico-legal aspects of the repair of traumatic limb amputations in the workplace received at the Yaoundé Emergency Center

Objectif : Décrire les aspects médico-légaux de la réparation des amputations traumatiques de membres en milieu professionnel. Méthodologie : Etude descriptive retrospective réalisée au centre des urgences de Yaoundé (CURY) de Janvier 2017 à Decembre 2022. Etait inclus, tout patient consentant ayant subi une amputation de membre consécutive à un accident de travail durant la période d'étude. Résultats : Au total, 96 patients amputes de membres ont ete colliges. Les victimes étaient majoritairement de sexe masculin soit 70.8%, la tranche d'âge la plus representee était celle de 30 à 35 ans. La categorie professionnelle la plus representee etait la categorie H (transport et entreposage) soit 34.5%. L'ecrasement a constitué le type lésionnel le plus pourvoyeur d'amputation soit 46,9 %, les membres inferieurs etaient le plus souvent atteint (66,6%). La duree moyenne d'arrêt de travail etait de 90,5 jours et l'incapacité permanent partielle (IPP) moyen etait de 47.9 %. Des patients amputes, 47.9 % avaient beneficies d'un changement de poste de travail. Conclusion: Les amputations traumatiques de membres en milieu professionnel sont relativement fréquentes. Toutes les catégories socioprofessionnelles peuvent être concernees. Elles sont source de prejudices importants.

Objective : To describe the medico-legal aspects of repairing traumatic limb amputations in the workplace. Methodology : Retrospective descriptive study conducted at the Yaounde emergency centre (YEC) from January 2017 to December 2022. All consenting patients who underwent a limb amputation following a work-related accident during the study period were included. Results : A total of 96 patients with limb amputations were enrolled. The victims were predominantly male (70.8%), and the most common age group was between 30 and 35 years. The most common occupational category was H (transport and storage), at 34.5%. Crushing was the most common type of injury causing amputations (46.9%), with the lower limbs most often affected (66.6%). The average length of time off work was 90.5 days, and the average permanent partial disability (PPD) was 47.9%. Of the amputated patients, 47.9% had benefited from a change of workstation. Conclusion : Traumatic limb amputations in the workplace are relatively common. All socioprofessional categories may be affected. They are a source of significant prejudice

Emergency centre patients in the Democratic Republic of Congo: Some epidemiological and clinical aspects at Beni General Referral Hospital

Introduction: Little information is available regarding the characteristics of patients attending the emergency centre (EC) in the Democratic Republic of Congo. This study aims to provide some epidemiological and clinical aspects of patients admitted to the emergency centre at Beni General Referral Hospital. Methodology: For a year, from January to December 2021, a cross-sectional study was conducted. Data regarding patients' characteristics, admission modality, stay duration, reason for admission, and discharge modality was anonymously collected from patients' registers. A descriptive analysis was done with Epi-Info 7. Result: A total of 1404 patients were admitted to the EC, with a male-to-female ratio of 1.2 to 1. The age group below 18 years accounted for 35.4%. Most of the patients (75.7%) originated from urban areas. In 83% of cases, there was no recommendation from another medical facility for EC admission. The most common reasons for admission are non-traumatic gathering on top of neuropsychiatric and non-specific symptoms. Road traffic accidents are the most frequent causes of trauma symptoms. Few patients (14.7%) spent less than 12 hours in the EC. Globally, 7.3% of patients admitted to the EC were discharged after being managed, and 89% were transferred to different wards. The intra-emergency centre mortality rate was 11.8% among admitted patients in the ER at Beni General Referral Hospital. Conclusion: This epidemiology database underlines the need for developing globalizing and multi-sectoral interventions (diagnosis, therapeutic strategy, organization, health program, or health policies) in the perspective of bringing change and/or taking action in the Democratic Republic of Congo's emergency medical system.

Thoracic trauma in national hospital Abuja, Nigeria: The epidemiology, injury severity and initial management options

Background: Trauma is the leading cause of death in individuals between the ages of 1 and 44 years and it is the third commonest cause of death regardless of age. Thoracic trauma is a relatively common cause of preventable death among trauma patients. The spectrum of injuries after blunt chest trauma presents a challenging problem to the emergency physician. This study is intended to discuss the epidemiology, severity and initial management strategies in chest trauma patients, in a low income country. Methods: A cross sectional retrospective study among chest trauma patients seen in the emergency room of National Hospital Trauma Centre, Abuja, Nigeria, from January 2015 to December 2017. Relevant patients' information was retrieved from the trauma registry kept in the trauma centre. Data processing and analysis was done using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) version 24. Test of significance was done where applicable using chi square and student t test, using p value less than 0.05 as significant. Results are presented in tables and figures. Results: A total of 637 patients, male to female ratio of 3.6 and mean age of 34.18 ± 11.34 were enrolled into the study. The most common mechanisms of injury were MVC (54.6%) and assault (23.5%). Blunt injuries were 3.5 times more frequent than the penetrating injuries. The RTS of 12 (76.3%) and the ISS of 1-15 category (52.3%) were the most common scores. Up to 98% of patients were managed non-operatively. Recovery rate was high (89%) with relatively low mortality rate of 4.2%. Conclusion: Majority of thoracic trauma can be managed effectively by employing simple, non-operative procedures such as needle decompression and chest tube insertion. Efforts should be made to include these procedures in the skill set of every medical officer working in the emergency room, particularly in low and middle income countries where there is paucity of emergency physicians.

Road traffic accident clinical pattern and management outcomes at JUMC Emergency Department; Ethiopia

Background: Road Traffic Accident is an incident on a way or street open to public traffic. It becomes one of the most significant public health problems in the world especially in developing countries. In Ethiopia, it represents a significant risk for morbidity and mortality. It is also the major public health problem even though studies done on this topic in the study area is limited. Objective: To assess clinical pattern, associated factors and management outcomes among road traffic accident Victims attending emergency department of Jimma University Medical Center. Methods: Hospital based cross sectional study design was employed to review patients' chart visited the hospital from March to April 2021. A systematic random sampling technique was applied. The data were collected using pretested checklist and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics and multivariate logistic regression were computed. Variables with P<0.05 were considered statistically significant. Results: About 49.6%) were pedestrians injured of which motorcycle accounted 42.9%. More than half of victims never got any type of prehospital care. On arrival, 38.7% were classified as Red of which 71.4% of them were managed surgically. About 84.9% of victims were discharged with improvement whereas12.6% were died. Victims with head injury (AOR= 16.61: 95% CI; 3.85, 71.71), time elapsed to reach nearby health facility (AOR= 3.30; 95 CI (1.13, 9.60), condition of patient at Emergency Department (AOR= 7.78; 95% CI: 2.33, 26.06), GCS at admission (AOR= 20.12; 95% CI: 7.23, 55.96) and days spent in hospital (AOR= 6.85; 95% CI 5.81, 8.06) were independent predictors of unfavorable outcome. Conclusion: Road Traffic Accident represents a significant risk for morbidity and mortality in Ethiopia, of which head injury and multiple sites injury increase injury severity. Targeted approaches to improving care of the injured victims may improve outcomes. Thus, the clinician should take into consideration the clinical presentation and give due attention to the identified contributing factors in its management.

Evaluate the incidence, topography, management, and outcomes in patients with polytrauma in the Suez Canal and Sinai areas

Introduction: The global prevalence of trauma-related mortality ranges from 2% to 32%; however, In Egypt, it reaches 8%. Trauma chiefly affects people in the productive age group; seriously ill patients with multiple injuries present with various levels of polytrauma. Application of incorrect triage systems and improperly trained trauma teams increase mortality and morbidity rates in non-dedicated institutions; however, these rates can decrease with appropriate infrastructure. This study aimed to improve the quality of care for patients with polytrauma through improved knowledge of the different severity levels of polytrauma and defined databases, using a suitable triage trauma system, well-trained trauma team, and appropriate infrastructure. Methods: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted at the emergency department (ED), over a study period of 7 months, from August 10, 2019, to March 09, 2020. This study included 458 patients with polytrauma who had met the inclusion and exclusion criteria and attended the ED of Suez Canal University Hospital. Results: The incidence of trauma among all emergency cases in the ED was 5.3%. However, most multiple injuries are mild, accounting for 44.4%, while 27.3% of the cases had life-threatening injuries. Moreover, 41.9% of the patients were managed non-operatively, whereas 58.1% of the patients required surgical interventions. Concerning the outcome, 56% and 6.9% of patients with and without life-threatening injuries respectively, died. Conclusion: Facilities of the highest quality should be available for patients with polytrauma, especially those with life-threatening injuries. In addition, training emergency medical service staff for trauma triage is essential, and at least one tertiary hospital is required in every major city in the Suez Canal and Sinai areas to decrease trauma-related mortality.

Epidemiology and outcomes of geriatric trauma patients consulting at the center hospitalier universitaire de Kigali emergency department

Background Life expectancy in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) continues to rise, resulting in a growing geriatric population. In Rwanda, a sub-Saharan LMIC, traumatic injuries are a common cause of mortality and morbidity. However, little is known about the frequency and type of traumatic injuries among geriatric populations in Rwanda. Objective We explored the epidemiology and outcomes of trauma for geriatric patients presenting to the emergency department (ED) of the center Hospitalier Universitaire de Kigali (CHUK) in Rwanda. Methods This prospective cross-sectional study was conducted from July 2019 to January 2020 at the ED of CHUK. Trauma patients aged 65 and above and alive at the time of evaluation were eligible for inclusion. Demographic characteristics were collected along with triage category, mechanism of injury, transfer status, transport method to CHUK, time spent at the ED, complications, and mortality predictors. Results For the 100 patients enrolled, the most common injury mechanism was falls (63%), followed by road traffic accidents (28%). The majority of patients spent less than 48 h in the ED (63%). The mortality rate was 14%, with most deaths resulting from injury-related complications. Triage category, Kampala Trauma Score, and Glasgow Coma Scale were significant predictors of mortality, with p-values of 0.002, <0.001, and <0.001, respectively. Conclusions The epidemiology of geriatric trauma found in this study can inform public health and clinical guidelines. Interventions targeting falls and road traffic accidents would target the most common geriatric trauma mechanisms, and clinical protocols that take into account predictors of mortality could improve outcomes and increase life expectancy for this population.

Knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding cervical collars in adult trauma patients amongst practitioners at three hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Background: The use of cervical collars in adult patients with possible injuries to the cervical spine has been an accepted standard of care for many years, despite the absence of evidence for the efficacy of these devices in preventing unwanted movement and harm. Changes to the terminology and recommendations of major trauma guidelines have been made but are limited by low quality evidence. In this context, little is known about what practitioners know, believe, and do, when managing the cervical spine of trauma patients. Methods: In this quantitative, observational, descriptive, cross-sectional survey a specifically designed questionnaire was used to collect data on the knowledge, attitude, and practices of practitioners managing adult trauma patients regarding cervical collars at three hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. Results: A total of 128 completed questionnaires were collected, captured, and analysed. Participants with the additional qualification of ATLS and DipPEC had a mean knowledge score of 8.1 (SD=1.70), compared to those with no additional qualification of 4.5 (SD=1.9) (p<0.001). Participants in the Emergency Department (ED) attained a mean knowledge score of 7.1 (SD=2.2) followed by Surgery (Mean=6, SD=2.0), Orthopaedics (Mean=5.5, SD=1.7) and ICU/Anaesthetics (Mean=4.4, SD=1.8), p<0.001. Head blocks only were most frequently used by 97.4 % of ED, 55.6 % of Surgery, 3.8 % Orthopaedic and 22.2 % ICU/Anaesthetics participants (p<0.001). Conclusion: The knowledge of management principles of cervical spine injuries was influenced by the department in which practitioners worked, the frequency that they managed patients with suspected injuries and additional courses. Head blocks were the most frequently used spinal protection device in all three hospitals. Most participants would be open to a change in practice if new guidelines were recommended. Further research is needed to determine the optimal management of patients with suspected cervical spine injuries and the role of motion restriction devices in limiting movement of the injured spine.

Aspects épidémiologiques, diagnostiques et thérapeutiques des traumatismes vertébro-médullaires au Centre Hospitalier Universitaire d'Owendo, Gabon / Spinal cord injury at the Owendo teaching hospital, Gabon. Epidemiology, diagnosis and management

Spinal cord injury constitutes a multidisciplinary therapeutic emergency. It occurs usually in a context of polytrauma. The aim of this study was to describe the management of spinal cord injury admitted to the emergency department of a "trauma center". Methods: This is a prospective observational study carried out at the University Hospital of Owendo, Gabon. Patients admitted to the emergency department of any age for spinal cord injury and having performed a radiological examination were included. Socio-demographic parameters, circumstances and times of onset of trauma, mode of transport, state of consciousness, sensory and motor deficit, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Score, hemodynamic and respiratory status were assessed. Results: During the study period, 850 patients were registered at the emergency department. Among them 112 were admitted for spinal cord injury (3.17%). The average age of the patients was 36 ± 3 years. The male gender accounted for 77% of cases. It concerned in 36% of cases the unemployed. The road accident was incriminated in 61%. Pedestrians were involved in 81% of cases. The clinical evaluation on admission found a sensorimotor deficit in 45 patients (40.17%), there were 11 tetraplegias (10%) and 3 paraplegias (3%). The majority of patients (77.7%) were classified as Fränkel stage A. The lesions were dominated by dislocations of the cervical spine (30.4%). Specialized care was essentially orthopedic in 60.7%. No patient was operated. Conclusion: Spinal cord injuries are "time-dependent" medical and surgical emergencies. A codified organization of pre-hospital care and an efficient "trauma center" are essential factors for the management of this type of traumatic pathology

Complications au cours de l'anesthésie pédiatrique: une série descriptive de cas descriptif de l'Hôpital Matanda et des Cliniques Universitaires du Graben en Ville de Butembo, République Démocratique du Congo / Complications during paediatric anaesthesia: A descriptive case series at the Matanda Hospital and the Cliniques Universitaires du Graben in Butembo, Democratic Republic of Congo

Pediatric anesthesia in developing countries is performed in a context of scarcity of personnel and equipment resources, which puts patients at risk of complications and death. The main objective of this study was to determine the complications occurring during the practice of pediatric anesthesia in Butembo. Methods: A descriptive case series of children aged 0 to 17 who benefited from anesthesia at Matanda Hospital and at the University Clinics of Graben was conducted from January 1 to December 31, 2020. Studied parameters included socio-demographic, pre, per and postoperative and perioperative mortality data. Results: Pediatric surgery represented 315 patients (7.2 %,) out of 4,367 surgeries of which 200 constituted the study sample. Boys were 60.0 % of the cases. Wounds represented 18.5% of the cases and ASA class 1 69.0 %. Nurse anesthetists conducted 196 (98.0 %) procedures. General anesthesia was the technique used in 75.0 % of cases. Ketamine was used in 68.8 % of the cases. Orotracheal intubation was performed in 10.5 %. Complication rates were 6.0 % at induction, 5.5 % at maintenance and 4.5 % postoperatively. The death rate was 1.5 %. Conclusion: The complication rate after pediatric anesthesia is still high. Capacity reinforcement of providers, improved equipment and availability of anaesthetics are the cornerstone measures to reduce these complications.

Contexte et objectif L'anesthésie pédiatrique dans les pays en voie de développement est pratiquée dans un contexte de pénurie des ressources en personnel comme en matériels, ce qui expose les patients au risque des complications et de décès. L'objectif principal de la présente étude était de déterminer les complications survenant au cours de l'anesthésie pédiatrique à Butembo. Méthodes : Il s'agissait d'une série descriptive des cas des enfants de 0 à 17 ans ayant bénéficié une anesthésie à l'hôpital Matanda et aux Cliniques Universitaires du Graben du 1ier janvier au 31 Décembre 2020. Les paramètres étudiés comprenaient les données sociodémographiques, les données pré, per et postopératoires et la mortalité périopératoire. Résultats : La chirurgie pédiatrique a concerné 315 patients (7,2 %) de 4367 opérés dont 200 ont constitué l'échantillon. Les garçons ont représenté 60,0 %. Les plaies ont représenté 18,5 % et la classe ASA 1 69,0 %. Les techniciens anesthésistes réanimateurs ont pratiqué 196 anesthésies (98,0 %). L'anesthésie générale a été pratiquée à 75,0 %. La kétamine a été utilisée à 68,8%. Les taux de complications étaient de 6,0% à l'induction, 5,5 % à l'entretien et de 4,5 % en postopératoire. Le taux de mortalité était de 1,5 %. Conclusion : Le taux de complications après anesthésie pédiatrique reste encore élevé. Le renforcement des capacités du personnel, l'amélioration de l'équipement et la disponibilité des anesthésiques sont la pierre angulaire pour réduire ces complications.

Secondary trauma amongst administrative support staff working with traumatic incident dockets within the South African Police Service in Johannesburg, South Africa

Background: Secondary trauma is trauma experienced by those in close contact with the victims of trauma. Research shows that some individuals exposed to photographs or video presentations of traumatic events may experience secondary trauma. This includes administrative staff within the South African Police Service (SAPS), who work with trauma dockets. Objectives: We explored the effects of secondary trauma on administrative support staff within the SAPS, their access to psychological support in the SAPS, and their use of the employee health and wellness (EHW) services in the SAPS. Methods: An exploratory qualitative study was conducted among administrative support staff from one of the four Johannesburg clusters of the SAPS. In-depth interviews took place with seven staff members. The data were analysed using Atlas.ti. Results: Administrative support staff are exposed to trauma through incident dockets, victim statements, and gruesome images. The study participants indicated that they experienced trauma daily, and symptoms of trauma such as flashbacks, anxiety, sadness, nightmares, paranoia, avoidance, recurrent thoughts, and fear of death. They were overprotective of their loved ones and paranoid. They were not utilising the EHW services due to lack of access to appropriate services, or the stigma attached to seeking help from mental health professionals. Conclusion: The SAPS needs to develop and implement a strategy to mitigate the impact of secondary trauma on its personnel, which include administrative support staff. Evidence-based interventions, such as resilience training, should be considered as part of the strategy

Frequency and pattern of intrauterine hysteroscopic lesions among women coming for IVF in the city of Yaoundé

Background: Hysteroscopy is an essential tool to make intrauterine assessment in infertile patients. Diagnosis and appropriate correction of intrauterine anomalies are considered essential in order to increase chances of conception. Ourobjective was to determine the frequency and pattern of intra uterine anomalies identified among women attending hysteroscopy at the Gynaecological Endoscopic Surgery and Human Reproduction Teaching Hospital Paul et Chantal Biya ­Yaoundé (GESHRTH). Methodsand results.Thiswas a cross sectional retrospective study of 96 women attending diagnostic or operative hysteroscopy at the GESHRTH between January 2020 and December 2021.The mean age was 38.7 ±7.6 years. Fifty-nine (61.5%) of the patients were nulliparous. Primary and secondary infertility were found respectively in fifty-two patients (54.2%) and forty-four patients (45.4%). Eleven patients (11.5%) were post-menopausal. Concerning previous surgery, 29 patients (30.2%) have had a myomectomy, 28 patients (29.1%) curettage,16 patients (16.6%) laparoscopy, eight (8.3%) hysteroscopy and one (1%) caesarean section. In all, 92 patients (95.8%) had abnormal intra uterine findings consisting of endometrial polyps (43.7%), sub-mucosal fibroids (42.7%), uterine cavity adhesions (20.8%), endometrial atrophy (4.1%), foetal bone (2%), uterine septum (1%) and non-absorbable suture thread (1%).Conclusion: Abnormal uterine findings were identified in 95.8% of patients attending hysteroscopy at GESHRTH. Most frequent findings were polypsin 43.7%, sub-mucosal fibroids in 42.7% and synechiae in 20.8%. The overall per operatory complication rate was 6.2%.

Introduction. Le recours à l'hystéroscopie constitue une étape indispensable au bilan cavitaire des patientes infertiles. Le diagnostic et la prise en charge adéquate des lésions intra cavitaires permettent d'améliorer les chances de conception.L'objectif de cette étude était de déterminer la fréquence et les caractéristiques des anomalies intra cavitaires chez les patientes opérées d'une hystéroscopie au Centre Hospitalier de Recherche et d'Application en Chirurgie Endoscopique et Reproduction Humaine Paul et Chantal Biya ­Yaoundé (CHRACERH).Méthodes et résultats. Nous avons mené une étude descriptive transversale de Janvier 2020 à Décembre 2021 et recruté 96 patientes. L'âge moyen était de38,7 ±7,6 ans. Soixante-neuf patientes (61,5%) étaient nullipares. Cinquante-deux (54,2%) et quarante-quatre (45,5%) présentaient une infertilité primaire et secondaire respectivement. Onze patientes (11,5%) étaient ménopausées. Concernant les antécédents chirurgicaux,nous avons identifié une myomectomie chez 29 patientes (30,2%), un curetage utérin chez 28 (29,1%), une cœlioscopie chez 16 (16,6%), une hystéroscopie chez huit (8,3%) et une césarienne chez une (1%). Au total, 92 (95,8%) des patientes avaient des anomalies cavitaires objectivées. Il s'agissait de polypes endométriaux (43,7%), fibromes sous-muqueux (42,7%), synéchies utérines (20,8%), atrophie de l'endomètre (4,1%), métaplasie osseuse (2%), cloison utérine (1%) et corps étranger à type de fil de suture nonrésorbable (1%).Conclusion.Les anomalies intra-cavitaires étaient retrouvées chez 95,8% des patientes réalisant une hystéroscopie au CHRACERH. Les anomalies les plus représentées étaient les polypes endométriaux (43,7%), les fibromes sous-muqueux (42,7%) et les synéchies utérines (20,8%). Le taux global de complications opératoires était de 6,2%.

Referral conditions for severe road traffic injuries and their influence on the occurrence of hospital deaths in Benin

Road traffic accidents are the leading cause of death by trauma. Delays in in first aid due, inter alia, to the long time to transfer traffic accident victims to hospital and the lack of pre-hospital emergency care, contribute to the increase in hospital mortality. This study aims to analyse the referral conditions for severe road traffic injuries and to assess their effect on the occurrence of hospital deaths in Benin. This is an analytical prospective cohort study conducted in road accident victims with a severe injury. Four groups of factors were studied: referral conditions, sociodemographic and victim-specific characteristics, factors related to the accident environment, and factors related to health services. A top-down binary stepwise logistic regression was the basis for the analyses. Nine point eight percent of severe trauma patients died after hospital admission (7.0-13.5). Associated factors were referral time greater than 1 hour (RR=5.7 [1.5-20.9]), transport to hospital by ambulance (RR=4.8 [1.3-17.3]) and by the police or fire department (RR=7.4 [1.8- 29.7]), not wearing protective equipment (RR=4.5 [1.4-15.0]), head injuries (RR=34.8 [8.7-139.6]), and no upper extremity injuries (RR=20.1 [2.3-177.1]). To reduce the risk of hospital death in severe road traffic injuries, it is important to ensure rapid and medicalized referral of severe trauma patients in Benin.

Clinical evaluation and outcomes in children ≤10 years old involved in road traffic accidents, presenting to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital, Johannesburg, South Africa

Background. Road traffic accidents (RTAs) are a leading cause of injury and death globally, particularly among children. Pedestrians are most often injured, especially in middle- and low-income countries. The epidemiology, patterns and severity of injuries in children involved in RTAs in our community are hard to obtain. Objectives. To evaluate the aetiological spectrum, injury characteristics and treatment outcomes of paediatric patients involved in RTAs,who presented to Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital (CHBAH), a tertiary hospital in Soweto, South Africa. Methods. Patients ≤10 years old, who were involved in RTAs and seen at CHBAH, were included in the study. Results. The study was conducted from 20 August 2017 to 31 March 2018, and included the data of 156 patients. Their ages ranged from 13 days to 10 years (65% were boys). Pedestrian vehicle accidents accounted for 78.8% of the injuries, with 60.8% of the children being unaccompanied by an adult. Motor vehicle accidents accounted for 19.2% of the injuries, with 92% of the children being unrestrained in the vehicle. Of the patients, 73.2% (n=112/153) underwent radiography and 44.4% required computed tomography (CT) scans, the majority being CT scans of the brain for suspected head injuries. Soft-tissue injuries accounted for 78.9% of cases, followed mainly by head (39.7%) and limb (16%) injuries. Only 12% of patients required surgical intervention, with 42% of the operations being for orthopaedic injuries. Conclusion. The abovementioned data demonstrate that there is a lack of use of child restraints for children travelling as passengers invehicles, and inadequate supervision of children on and around roads. This study supports other evidence, as it suggests that the paediatric population involved in RTAs is largely injured as pedestrians, and that males tend to be involved in more RTAs than females. The majority of injuries sustained involved the soft tissues, followed by head injuries

Epidemiology of Open Tibia fractures presenting to a tertiary referral center in Southern Malawi: a retrospective study

Road traffic accidents in Malawi have increased in recent years resulting in a high incidence of trauma seen in the hospitals as well as a high prevalence of musculoskeletal impairment in the community. Open fractures are a common consequence of road traffic accidents, and the tibia is the most common long bone open fracture. Objective Epidemiology of open tibia fractures at the largest tertiary level hospital in Malawi and incidence of infections of open fractures managed at the institution. Methodology This was a retrospective study of consecutive open tibia fracture patients seen and admitted to Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital's (QECH) orthopedic department from 1st January 2019 to 31st December 2019. Patients with life-threatening head, chest, or abdominal injuries were excluded as management takes priority over any limb-threatening injury. Results There were 72 open tibia fractures screened, and 60 of these met our entry criteria; 6 patients did not, while 6 patient files were missing. The median age of patients was 36 years, IQR (27-44.75) with Males making up 82%(n=49) of open fractures. Most of the open tibia fractures were caused by road traffic accidents 63%(n=38), followed by assaults 18%(n=11), falls 17%(n=10), and industrial accidents 2%(n=1). 26.7% (n=16) of open tibia fractures developed an infection. We found that patients' average length of stay was 16. 9(IQR 9.5-31.25) days. Most of the injuries (68.3%, n=41) were moderate to high energy injuries being Gustilo et al. grade II and III open tibia fractures. Conclusion This study identified that open tibia fractures were common in our hospital and that were often high energy injuries requiring an extended hospital stay to manage. The infection rate noted was higher than that reported on average in lower- and middle-income countries. There is a need to do more robust prospective studies in the area to gather more information.

Gunshot injury in children: A 3-year review of cases that presented to the Jos University Teaching Hospital, North Central Nigeria

OBJECTIVES: Gunshot injuries among children are a major clinical and public health concern and one of the leading causes of pediatric morbidity and mortality. This usually takes a great financial and emotional toll on the affected children, their families, and society as a whole. The objective of the study was to determine the pattern of injury, severity, outcome, and challenges in managing the gunshot injuries in children.MATERIAL AND METHODS: This is a descriptive study of patients below 18 years of age who presented with gunshot injuries to the Jos University Teaching Hospital between January 2011 and December 2014. Patient demographics and clinical details were collected on a trauma data sheet, and entered into an Excel spreadsheet. It was analyzed descriptively.RESULTS: Two hundred and forty-two patients presented with gunshot injuries in the period under review, of which 30 of them were children. The median age of the patients was 12 years with an interquartile range of 7.75 and 16.25. Twenty-two (73.3%) of them were male while 8 (26.7%) were female. High-velocity firearms accounted for 13 (43.3%) of the injuries and were the most predominant cause of injury. The most common part of the body involved was the extremities in 63.3% of patients. Debridement and secondary suturing was carried out in 83.3% of the patients while wound infection was the most noted complication in 33.3% of the patients. CONCLUSION:There is an increasing incidence of gunshot injuries in this region. A lot of the children survive and reach the hospital though, and most of them are treated and discharged, however, attendant emotional and psychological trauma cannot be excluded in these patients. There is, thus, a need for proper policy to protect and treat these children when this happens.

Trauma unit admissions at the Ugandan National Referral Hospital: a descriptive study

Background: Injuries are a neglected epidemic globally accounting for 9% global deaths; 1.7 times that of HIV, TB and malaria combined. Trauma remains overlooked with key research and data focusing on infectious diseases, yet Uganda has one of the highest rates of traumatic injury. We described demographics of patients admitted to Mulago Hospital's Shock Trauma Unit within the Emergency Department. Methods: This was a retrospective record review Trauma Unit admission from July 2012 to December 2015. Information collected included: age, sex, time of admission, indication for admission and mechanism of trauma. Results: 834 patient records were reviewed. The predominant age group was 18-35 with majority of patients being male. 54% of patients presented during daytime with 46% admitted in the evening hours or overnight. Mechanism of injury was documented in 484 cases. The most common mechanism was Road Traffic Accident (67.4%), followed by assault (12.8%) and mob violence (5.6%). The most common indication for admission was traumatic brain injury (84.5%), followed by hemodynamic instability (20.0%) and blunt chest injury (6.1%). Conclusion: There's a significant burden of high-acuity injury particularly among males with RTAs as the leading cause of admission associated with Traumatic Brain Injury as main admission indication

Factors influencing willingness to intervene as bystanders among adult residents living in crash-prone areas in the Ashanti region of Ghana

Introduction Formal prehospital emergency medical services cover only a small percent of the population in most low- and middle-income countries. Increasing the involvement of laypersons in prehospital first aid can be an important part of the response to injuries and other medical emergencies. We sought to understand factors associated with the willingness of laypersons in Ghana to provide first aid to road traffic crash victims. Method This cross-sectional study purposively sampled four crash-prone areas in the Ashanti Region and 385 participants were interviewed. A structured questionnaire was used to ask about their demographic characteristics, first aid knowledge, and perceptions about first aid. Factors affecting willingness to provide first aid were assessed using multivariable logistic regression. Results Most participants were male (57.7%) and young (median age 28 years). A large majority (82.9%) were willing to provide first aid to crash victims. However, only 43.1% had been trained in first aid and only 40.4% had adequate knowledge of first aid (≥ 70% correct). Factors associated with willingness to provide first aid included first aid knowledge (aOR 17.27 for moderate knowledge vs. low knowledge, p=0.018; aOR 13.63 for adequate knowledge vs. low knowledge, p=0.030) and positive attitudes towards first aid, including the feeling that: every person should be trained in first aid (aOR 2.98, p=0.025), first aid increases survival (aOR 2.79, p=0.046), it is important to learn first aid (aOR 2.40, p=0.005), and bystanders have the responsibility to give first aid (aOR 4.34, p<0.001). Conclusion A high percentage of people in these crash-prone areas of Ashanti Region, Ghana were willing to provide first aid. However, under half had been trained in first aid or had adequate knowledge of first aid. A major implication of these findings is the need to increase the availability of quality training in first aid in these areas.