Abstract
Abstract: :
Purpose: To investigate seasonal variability in the incidence and pattern of open globe injuries. Methods: Charts of 100 patients who presented to the Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary with open globe injuries were reviewed retrospectively. Data on patient age, sex and initial visual acuity as well as the type, location and mechanism of injuries were recorded. Results: Open globe injuries were twice as common during summer rather than winter months. Thirty-seven injuries (37%) occurred within the months of June-August, while only seventeen injuries (17%) occurred within the months of December-February. Work-related injuries and injuries related to home improvement projects were common causes of open globe injuries in both summer (22% each) and winter (24% and 18% respectively) months. However, injuries related to assaults were more common in summer (14% vs. 0%), while injuries from falls were more common in winter (18% vs. 3%). Winter injuries were predominantly zone 1 injuries (zone 1 – 65%, zone 2 – 24%, zone 3 – 12%), while summer injuries were more equally distributed (zone 1 – 27%, zone 2 – 41%, zone 3 - 44%). Conclusions: Both the incidence and mechanisms of open globe injuries show seasonal variability. This information may be useful in planning public health campaigns to reduce the frequency of serious eye injuries.