Multicenter survey of badminton-related eye injuries

ABSTRACT

Objective: To determine the patient profile and risk factors for badminton-related eye injuries in Metro Manila. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of badminton-related eye injuries in Metro Manila. A survey form was sent to 13 ophthalmologists who were asked to report on patients treated for badminton-related eye injuries from July 1 to December 1, 2004. The following data were collected: patient age, gender, and sports experience; details of eye injury; use of protective eyewear; and visual outcomes. Logistic regression analysis was performed to predict sight-threatening injuries. Results: The average patient age was 34.7 +/- 6.2 years (range 18 to 46). There were more males than females (1.55:1). All patients sustained eye injury while playing doubles. None of the patients were wearing protective eyewear at the time of injury. Blunt trauma due to shuttlecock impact was the cause of injury in 74 % of cases. The most common ocular findings were iridocyclitis (n = 11), secondary glaucoma (n = 6), and hyphema (n = 5). Twenty-nine sight-threatening conditions were reported. Six (26 %) patients developed chronic ocular sequelae. Conclusion: Sight-threatening injuries can occur in individuals playing badminton. While vision loss is uncommon, treatment outcomes are generally good. Since all injuries were sustained without the use of protective eyewear, ophthalmologists have a responsibility to promote its use when playing badminton.