Factors affecting visual outcomes of children with open globe injury

Abstract

Objective: This study described the demographics of pediatric patients who sustained open globe injuries, determined the visual outcome of open globe injuries in pediatric patients and the factors associated with final visual acuity.

Methodology: The medical charts of 195 patients aged 0-18 years seen for open globe injury in a Philippine tertiary hospital for three years were reviewed.

Results: The average age of patients was 7.9 years with 41% belonging to the 5-9 years old group. Seventy-five percent (75%) of the patients were males. Ninety-five percent (95%) of the open globe injuries were accidental, mostly from play (67%). The most common agents of injury were metallic objects (42%) followed by wooden objects (24%). The cornea was injured in 80% of the cases, cornea and sclera in 10%, sclera in 7%, and globe rupture in 3%. Eighty-six percent (86%) of the patients underwent surgery. Initial visual acuity was associated with the presence of complication and the site of injury. Final visual acuity was associated with the initial visual acuity, the interval from injury to consultation, the site of injury, and the presence of complications.

Conclusions: The majority of the injuries were accidental and thus avoidable. The education of parents and caregivers on proper storage of potentially harmful objects at home and proper supervision of children at play are important in addition to early consultation after the injury as well as a timely intervention.