Overview of Six Months Activities in a New Unit of Management of Head Trauma in West Africa

Abstract

Abstract: Background: The aim of this study was to describe and compare with the literature data, the epidemiological and evolutionary aspects of the management of traumatic brain injury after six months of activities in a new hospital. Methods: This was a retrospective study that was performed at the neurosurgery unit of the Tengandogo Teaching Hospital. The analysis covered all admitted head trauma patients from May 1, 2014 to October 31, 2014. The variables studied were: frequency, age, sex, circumstances, mechanism, Glasgow score (GCS), care and evolution. Results: Over six months, 302 traumatized head injuries were recorded. The average age was 34.8 years old. The sex ratio was 3.79 (239 M / 63 W). Road traffic accidents accounted for 85.43% (n=258) of etiologies, 80% of which were due to two-wheeled machines, followed by falls from a high place with 7.61% (n=23). In 5% (n=15) of cases, it was assault. Severe forms (GCS 3-8) accounted for 33.7% (n=102) of which 65.7% were associated with polytrauma. Moderate forms (GCS: 9-12) accounted for 21% (n=63) of the cases, 45.3% (n=137) were benign forms (GCS: 13-15). Patients were medically treated in 73.5% (n=119) of the cases, and 21% (n=63) were operated upon. Twenty-one patients (6.6%) refused medical care. The mortality rate in severe forms was 38%. Conclusion: Despite advances in resuscitation, overall mortality remains heavy. Sequelae are frequent, leading to difficulties in socio-professional and family reintegration in our low-income country. Prevention of these traumas plays a vital role.