Management of a mass Disaster: an experience at mayo hospital, Lahore

ABSTRACT

A brief account of the management of casualties of a mass disaster which resulted in a heavy loss of life and property is presented. It was one of the biggest disasters in Lahore involving 104 casualties managed by a single surgical unit of Mayo Hospital Lahore,. Ten people [9.6%] died at the spot. Most of the injured were police men [63.5%] and party workers of a political party [26%]. Seventy nine [76%] victims fell within 20 to 40 years of age. Thirty six [34.6%] underwent major surgical procedures. Eight [7.7%] had temporary disability while three [2.88%] became permanently disabled. In hospital mortality was 7 [6.7%]. Septicaemia being the commonest cause of death i.e. 3 out of 7 [42.8%]. Forty five minutes was the total time taken in triage and distribution of cases to different areas of management. The experience of the management of this mass disaster and the problems encountered during its execution are highlighted. The deficiencies and pitfalls in the management were noted and are now presented in the form of recommendations for further improvement in the major disaster plan