A STUDY OF INJURIES BY WILD ANIMALS ADMITTED UNDER PLASTIC SURGERY DEPARTMENT IN A TERTIARY MEDICAL HOSPITAL IN CENTRAL INDIA.

Abstract

Background: Due to strict protection of wild animals and encroachment on their habitat, the number of injuries and deaths caused by wild animals is increasing in central India. The purpose of this study was to report the injuries caused by wild animal attacks and discuss the management methods and its consequences.
Methods A retrospective study was conducted from January 2021 to June 2023 in a plastic surgery department of a tertiary care hospital in central India. A total of 508 cases (372 males and 136 females) with a history of wild animal attacks were recorded in a period of time. From research. Results 80% of the victims were attacked in the fields and 20% in the forest while collecting firewood or keeping cattle. Tears in the head and neck, fractures in the upper limbs and the face and skull were significant observations. In most patients, the long-term consequences were permanent facial disfigurement, hearing loss, loss of fingers, residual neurological
deficits, and persistent psychiatric complications. Conclusion Wildlife injuries are a neglected part of trauma. A high index of suspicion is required when treating these injuries, as underlying bone and soft tissue injuries may be overlooked. The management of these injuries includes all trauma subspecialties to achieve the best functional outcome.