PATTERN, CLINICAL PROFILE, MANAGEMENT, AND OUTCOMES OF EAR, NOSE, AND THROAT TRAUMA: A PROSPECTIVE OBSERVATIONAL STUDY FROM CENTRAL INDIA

Abstract

Background: ENT trauma represents a significant cause of emergency hospital admissions and is associated with substantial functional impairment, cosmetic deformity, and socioeconomic burden. Understanding regional epidemiological patterns is essential for planning preventive strategies and optimising management protocols. Objective: To evaluate the epidemiological profile, clinical presentation, management strategies, and outcomes of ENT trauma patients presenting to a tertiary care centre in Central India. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Head & Neck Surgery at Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose Medical College, Jabalpur, Madhya Pradesh, India, from April 2023 to March 2025. A total of 100 consecutive patients with ENT trauma were included. Demographic profile, mechanism of injury, anatomical injury patterns, associated injuries, radiological findings, treatment modalities, complications, and outcomes were analysed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.0. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: Road traffic accidents were the leading cause of injury (59%), followed by assault (29%) and accidental falls (12%). Young adults aged 16–30 years constituted the most affected age group (46%). Male predominance was observed with a male-to-female ratio of 4.9:1. Combined skeletal and soft tissue injuries were present in 78% of patients. Nasal fractures were the most common skeletal injury (68%), whereas facial lacerations represented the most common soft tissue injury (65%). Surgical intervention was required in 84% of cases. Satisfactory functional and cosmetic outcomes were achieved in 92% of patients at 3-month follow-up. Delayed presentation beyond 24 hours was significantly associated with increased complication rates (p = 0.028). Conclusion: ENT trauma predominantly affects young males and is mainly associated with road traffic accidents. Nasal fractures and facial soft tissue injuries are the most frequent injury patterns. Early diagnosis, multidisciplinary management, and timely surgical intervention are essential for favourable outcomes. Strengthening road safety measures and public awareness programs may substantially reduce the burden of preventable ENT trauma.