Eye injuries in Victoria, Australia.

OBJECTIVE

To outline the spectrum of eye injuries in the Victorian population.

METHODS

Prospective survey of all eye injuries treated at the Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital; and a review of morbidity data from all Victorian hospitals to estimate the incidence of ocular trauma across the State.

RESULTS

During a 12-month period, 6308 patients were treated at the hospital. Most had superficial injuries, but 401 (6%) were admitted for severe trauma. Most were male and young; children aged under 15 years comprised 25% of hospitalisations (severe injuries). The workplace accounted for 44% of all injuries and 19% of severe trauma, including ruptured globes and internal bleeding. Sports injuries accounted for 5% of all injuries, but 19% of severe injuries. The incidence estimate for penetrating eye injuries was 3.6 per 100,000 population. The incidence of eye injuries requiring hospitalisation was 15.2 per 100,000. Annual medical costs were estimated conservatively at $15.8 million a year for this hospital alone and projected at $39 million a year for 29,000 eye injuries in Victoria and $155 million a year for 116,000 cases nationwide.

CONCLUSIONS

Most ocular trauma occurs in young people and could be prevented by proper use of safety eyewear.