Analysis of Otologic Injuries Due to Blast Trauma by Handmade Explosives

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study is to identify the otologic injuries due to handmade explosive-welded blast travma in the law enforcement officers during the combat operations in the curfew security region and to specify the disorders that Otolaryngology and Head Neck Surgery (OHNS) physicians can face during such operations. Methods:Medical records of patients in law enforcement who were initially treated by OHNS physicians of Silopi State Hospital during combat operations, between December 14, 2015 and January 15, 2016 were reviewed. Twenty-five patients with otologic injuries due to blast trauma were included in the study. Trauma characteristics, physical examination findings, and beginning treatments were identified.Results: Primary blast injury (PBI) was identified as the major disorder in all 24 cases. Tinnitus and hearing loss were the most frequent complaints. In physical examination, tympanic membrane perforations were found in four ears of three patients. Oral methylprednisolone in decreasing doses for 10 days was commenced as an initial treatment in patients with PBI. Secondary blast injury presented in the form of soft tissue damage in the auricular helix due to shrapnel pieces in one patient and a minor surgery was performed. Conclusion:Otologic injuries due to blast trauma may often develop during this type of combat operations. Otologic symptoms should be checked, otoscopic examination should be performed, and patients should consult OHNS physicians as soon as possible after trauma.

Analysis of the Medical Consequences of Global Terrorist Attacks in Turkic States in the Last 50 Years by Weapon and Attack Type

“…20 Pressure during a bomb attack directly affects health, resulting in penetrating and thermal injury; injury to sensitive areas such as the ears, lungs, and abdomen; skin ecchymosis, abrasion, and tearing; head trauma; and bone fractures. [21][22][23][24][25] However, flying objects, blast waves, and complicated events occur in bomb attacks. These events cause medical consequences such as blunt trauma, fractures, burns, crush syndrome, and immune system problems.…”

Hearing Loss in Blast Trauma Victims. A Multicentre Retrospective Study

“…Lungs and abdomen are the other organs which are sensitive to primary blast injury. Ear drum rupture can occur at pressures as low as 35 Kpa while 105 Kpa pressure causes perforation in 50% of ear drums in adults 2,4,5,12 .…”

“…However the degree of damage done depends on the strength of the explosion and the distance from the explosion site. An explosion occurring indoors creates reflecting waves causing more damage [2][3][4] .…”