Epidemiological, clinical and therapeutic profile of paediatric fractures in Yaounde: A multicentre study

Abstract

Introduction: Fractures are medical emergencies and a common reason for seeking paediatric surgical care. Our aim was to describe the epidemiological, diagnostic and therapeutic factors associated with fractures in children in the city of Yaoundé.

Methodology: This was a descriptive study, conducted over a five-year period, included patients aged 0 to 15 years treated in four hospitals in the city of Yaoundé.

Results: The average age was 9 years, with a predominance of males (56.5%). Accidents occurring during play (36.8%) and road traffic accidents (33.9%) were the main causes. The femur was the most commonly affected bone (25.3%). Treatment was predominantly orthopaedic (59.7%). Complications were noted in 8.3% of cases, predominantly limb shortening and gangrene.

Conclusion: Accidents occurring during play and road traffic accidents were the main causes of fractures in children. The prognosis depends on how early hospital treatment is sought.