Pattern of stab injuries in an inner city teaching hospital

Background There are increasing incidences of stab injuries in the UK and most of them are alcohol or drug related. Aims To study the pattern and epidemiology of stab injuries in an inner city teaching hospital Materials and methods We studied retrospectively all cases of stabbing injuries by intention reported to the Accident and Emergency Department of an inner city teaching hospital between January and December 2004. A total of 23 cases were reported. All cases of deliberate self harms and accidental injuries were excluded. Results Majority (35 %) of the patients were of the age group 21-30 yrs. 73% of injuries were involving the extremities. 44% of these injuries were caused by knife, 22% by screwdrivers and the remaining were pencils (13%), needles (8.7%), broken bottles (4.3%) and unknown objects (8.7%). While 18 patients were treated and discharged from A&E, 7 patients required admission in which 4 required major surgeries under GA. X-rays were the commonest investigation modality performed (12), while 4 of them required CT scans. 52% of the patients were not given antibiotics while 30% had IV antibiotics and the remaining was oral. While no follow up was required for 14 patients, 3 left against medical advice despite major chest and abdominal injuries and 2 did not attend the out patient clinic. Conclusion Vast majority (78%) of patients were of productive workforce of the society. Despite high extremities involvement (75%), Orthopaedic referrals were minimal. The majority of injuries were minor and most of the victims were male and of these, the age group 21-30 yrs form the greatest number. No fatalities were seen in this period from impalement injury. A multidisciplinary team approach is essential in managing major impalement injuries.