Epidemiology and clinical profile of pediatric ophthalmic trauma presenting to a rural eye hospital in Western Odisha

Purpose: To report the demographic characteristics, clinical features, and visual outcomes of pediatric patients with ophthalmic trauma presenting to a rural eye hospital in Western Odisha. Methods: This hospital-based, retrospective case series included 119 pediatric patients (<15 years old) presenting with ophthalmic injuries to a secondary-level eye care center in Western Odisha between January 2022 and December 2024. Data were recorded as part of the International Globe and Adnexal Trauma Epidemiology Study consortium. Results: Of 199 children presenting with trauma, 119 met the inclusion criteria. The cohort was predominantly male (83.19%) with a mean age of 9.35 years. Domestic settings accounted for 44.54% of injuries. Blunt trauma was the most frequent mechanism (60.50%), and corneal involvement was noted in 40.33% of eyes. Closed globe injuries (CGIs) were observed in 93 eyes, and open globe injuries in 26 eyes. Most injuries were localized to Zone 1 (58.82%). Notably, none of the patients used eye protection. Delayed presentation was significant, with 24.37% presenting more than 1 week after trauma and 14.29% presenting after 1 month. Conclusion: Pediatric ophthalmic trauma in this series was characterized by a preponderance of males, CGIs, and domestic settings. Lack of protective eyewear and significant delays in seeking care are concerns.