ANIMAL RELATED INJURIES TO THE TROOPS IN FIELD

Abstract

Objective: To determine the mechanism and pattern of animal related injuries in the troops deployed in field.

Design: A hospital based observational study.

Place and Duration of Study: Main Dressing Station Kotli Azad Kashmir from Jan 2004 to Jan 2006

Material and Methods: An observational hospital based study was carried out on all the patients who reported to the Main Dressing Station (MDS) between Jan 2004 to Jan 2006. The data was collected by using hospital information system. A performa was developed after review of literature which included necessary information related to patient’s age, sex, type of injury and species of animal involved. The information collected was analyzed in detail. Laskin and Donhoue1 classification was used to classify wounds.

Results: A total of 48 patients were reviewed. These were all males and the mean age was 25 years. Thirty three (69%) patients had soft tissue injuries, 7 (15%) had fractures, 5 (10%) had head injury and 3 (6%) had abdominal injury. Mule kick injuries occurred in 37(77%) patients, dog bite in 7(15%) cases and donkey bite in 4(8%) cases.

Conclusion: Troops deployed in the field are exposed to the hazard of animal related injuries which can be fatal at times. The complex nature of these injuries entails early and appropriate management in order to achieve satisfactory outcome and prevent complications. Prevention strategies include proper animal handling techniques based upon animal behavior and the appropriate use of well designed confinement facilities.