Aims: This study is performed to determine the epidemiology and incidence of ocular trauma in Waikato, New Zealand.
Methods: The data was analysed on age, sex, ethnicity and type of trauma. Visual acuity (VA) at presentation and discharge was recorded. Details of slit lamp examination were noted.
Results: There were a total of 821 injuries. Men had higher rate of ocular trauma than women (74% vs 26%, p<0.001). Mean age was 31 years for males and 37 years for females respectively. Highest number of ocular trauma was seen in age group 15-20 (11.5%). There were 253 open globe injuries (OGI) and 568 closed globe injuries (CGI) (p<0.001). The most frequent causes of eye injuries in men were related to outdoor activities (25.9%) and work (20.7%). In women, outdoor activity was also the highest cause (10%). The annual rate of ocular trauma was 20.5 per 100,000 populations. Final VA of greater than and equal to 6/12 was found in 590 eyes, 6/12-6/60 in 143 eyes and greater than and equal to 6/60 in 88 eyes. Primary or secondary vitreoretinal procedures were performed in 54 eyes. There were three cases (0.3%) of endophthalmitis (inflammation of the internal coats of the eye).
Conclusion: This study provides insight into epidemiology of ocular trauma in Waikato, New Zealand.