Prevalence, Characteristics, and Management of Pediatric Ocular Trauma in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Retrospective Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: Ocular trauma is a major cause of visual impairment; however, little is known about its burden in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the epidemiological characteristics of ocular trauma in pediatric patients in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Patients and methods: Medical records of pediatric patients diagnosed with eye injuries between January 2016 and December 2020 were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic and injury characteristics were collected, and ocular trauma injuries were classified according to the Birmingham Eye Trauma Terminology. Results: A total of 855 injured patients were included in the study, of whom 525 (61.4%) were boys. Patient age ranged from one month to 18 years. Most ocular injuries occurred in children aged 5–9 years. The injuries were more prevalent in boys than in girls. Closed globe injuries accounted for 70% of cases, open globe injuries for 21%, and other injuries for 9%. Most ocular injuries occurred at home (n = 87, 42%), followed by school (n = 61, 30%). Conclusions: These results may inform the implementation and targeting of interventions to reduce or prevent eye injuries in children. Further, they highlight the importance of well-planned prevention programs to prevent eye injuries from occurring in children’s daily lives.