DR. JOPHY PHILIPS

Dr.Smitha Jasper

Abstract

PURPOSE: To study the demographic,socio-economic and clinical profile of patients presenting with occupation related ocular trauma.

METHODS: Prospective observational study in patients with workplace eye injuries.

RESULTS: Men(81.8%)were affected more than women with eye injuries.The most affected age group was 31-40 years.The maximum number of occupational eye injuries were in farmers(27%)followed by welders(13%).Metallic foreign body was the commonest cause of injury in the industrial sector and vegetative matter among the non-industrial sector. All patients with open globe injury(12.5%) and 96% with closed globe injury were from the lower SES. 4 patients had retained intra-ocular foreign body requiring surgery.The causes for low vision at 1 month follow-up were retinal detachment, vitreous haemorrhage, corneal scarring and aphakia.

CONCLUSION: Occupation related eye injuries are a preventable cause of ocular trauma.Enhancing education, safety and awareness is of prime importance.