Accidental injuries during muslim pilgrimage

OBJECTIVE: The diseases that occur during Hajj are a unique medical problem. The aim of this study is to highlight the incidence, the type and the early surgical management of trauma during the Hajj period.

METHODS: A prospective study was carried out during a 15 day-period conducted in two parts in the emergency room, and a follow-up of the admitted patients in the surgical department.

RESULTS: The number of trauma cases who attended the emergency department was 713 patients, 248 patients were admitted in different surgical departments, together with the intensive-care unit. Sixty-five percent of the patients were discharged from emergency room as they had minor trauma. Sixty percent were involved in road traffic accidents, 15% had injuries in Holy Haram. Limb fracture accounts for 53% of total trauma admissions. Two patients died in the first 48 hours.

CONCLUSION: Trauma during Hajj is a real surgical problem which deserves more attention. Orthopedic and Neurosurgical cases are the most common surgical cases during the Hajj period.