Traumatic Craniocerebral Injury from Axe Strikes: Presentation, Prognosis, and Complications – A Tertiary Care Hospital Study

Abstract

Objective:  To evaluate the effects of a brain injury caused by an axe strike, including its presentation, prognosis, and potential complications.

Material and Method:  The study was a descriptive, analysis conducted at the Liaquat University of Medical and Health Sciences in Jamshoro, Sindh, Neurosurgery Department. It spanned a three-year from January 2019 to August 2022. Patients were based on consecutive sampling sizes. CT scan brain was done and the brain trauma was categorized. Follow-up was done at 6 months.

Results:  A total of 61 cases of Axe injury (hatchet injury) were managed surgically. The female-to-male ratio was 2.8:1. The Average time of surgery was 150±30 mins, wound size due to axe injury was measured it was about 3.5±2.2 cm. The cerebrospinal fluid leak was in 32, and meningitis in 16 patients after repair of neurological deficit. Patients were managed in a high-dependency unit with intravenous antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and mannitol. The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores of patients on arrival were compared with their scores at discharge. 

Conclusion:  This study adds a critical view into the presentation, management, and outcomes of patients who suffered brain injuries caused by axe strikes. The severity of injuries varied, with complications such as post-surgical infections, cerebrospinal fluid leaks, and meningitis being common.