An analytical study of 33 cases of mortal head injuries

Abstract

Lusaka Teaching Hospital is the biggest in the country. Out of its thousand beds there are about 220 general surgical beds. The management of head injuries in the University Teaching Hospital is the responsibility of the duty general surgeon who admits and treats them. Neurosurgical opinion is sought whenever it is. 33 cases of mortal head injuries are analysed regarding the clinical presentation,treatment and post mortem findings. 14 cases were operated on with a high incidence of post operative recollection of the haematoma. 19 cases were treated non-surgically; this latter group showed high incidence of systemic injuries as well as short survival.