Chest trauma epidemiology and emergency department management in a tertiary teaching hospital in Kigali, Rwanda

• DOI: 10.1016/j.afjem.2022.09.004
• Publication Date: 2022-10-15T09:04:48Z
• Authors: Bernard Nsengiyumva; Michael B. Henry; Heather M. Kuntz; Molly K. Estes; Melanie M. Randall; Mindi Guptill
• Keywords: Thoracostomy

Chest trauma is a major contributor to injury morbidity and mortality, understanding trends crucial part of addressing this burden in low- middle-income countries. This study reports the characteristics emergency department (ED) management chest patients presenting Rwanda's national teaching hospital Kigali.This descriptive analysis included convenience sample single tertiary ED with from June December 2017. Demographic data were collected as well mechanism, thoracic associated injuries, types imaging obtained, treatments performed. Chart review was conducted seven days post-admission follow up on outcomes additional diagnoses interventions. Incidences calculated Microsoft Excel.Among 62 study, 74% male, mean age 35 years. Most injured road traffic crashes (RTCs) (68%). Common injuries lung contusions (79% cases), rib fractures (44%), pneumothoraces (37%). Head frequent concurrent extra-thoracic (61%). Diagnostic primarily E-FAST ultrasound (92%) x-ray (98%). The most common therapies painkillers (100%), intravenous fluids (89%), non-invasive oxygen (63%), while 29% underwent invasive intervention form thoracostomy. majority admitted (81%). Pneumonia complication occur first (32% patients). Ultimately, 40% discharged home within presentation, 50% remained hospitalized, 5% died.This epidemiology Rwanda can guide prevention medical training priorities. Efforts should target young males those involved RTCs. physicians need be prepared diagnose treat variety noninvasive means.