Publication:

Ear, nose and throat emergencies: an experience in rural area

Background Ear, nose and throat (ENT) emergencies are very common throughout the world. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment in the hands of expert will result in reduction of morbidity, mortality and referrals.

Methods This retrospective study was conducted on 352 patients reporting in out-patient department (OPD) and emergency of District Hospital Ramban from June 2016 to May 2017. Demographic data as well as diagnosis were studied. The type of anaesthesia and type of procedure and outcome of emergency case were recorded. Patients with terminal cancer care admitted were excluded from the study.

Results A total of 352 patients, 204 males and 148 females were included in present study. The commonest emergency was foreign body (69.03%), trauma (11.9%), epistaxis (9.6%), and abscess (6.8%). Procedures done were foreign body removal, fracture reductions, soft tissue injury repair, incision and drainage, packing and cauterisation.

Conclusions Foreign body is the most common cause of ENT emergency and it is a preventable accident. Education of parents and public at large will go a long way in reducing these preventable mishaps in children. Timely management of emergencies in the hand of experts reduces the mortality and complication rate.