Firearm injuries at Keffi: observations from a tertiary health facility in north-central Nigeria

Abstract

Background: The occurrence of firearm injury is on the rise both within and outside Nigeria. This has led to a significant increase in the number of casualties presenting to health facilities. This study aims at looking at the magnitude and pattern of injuries sustained from firearms in our centre.

Methods: This is a prospective cross-sectional study carried out over a period of 36 months (January 2016- December 2018) on patients that presented with gunshot injuries. Patients were stabilised and definitive procedures were carried out accordingly. Multi-disciplinary management modality was employed where necessary.

Results: A total of 67 patients were seen comprising of 49 males and 18 females (M:F=2.7:1). The abdomen was far more involved than other regions of the body (27, 40%) followed by the extremities (11, 16%). Procedures carried out include laparotomy (39, 58.2%), thoracostomy (20, 29.9%), wound exploration and debridement (22, 32.8%) as well as fracture stabilization (11, 16.4%).

Conclusion: The extent of firearm injuries from our study is proven evidence that the society at large is endangered. A holistic approach from both government and the citizenry is required in curtailing this trend.

Keywords: Firearms, Injuries, Management, Keffi