Kite-Flying Associated Injuries in Rawalpindi

Objective: To have a cross sectional view of the burden of injuries resulting from the kite flying activity with respect to age and sex of affected population and spectrum and nature of injuries. Place and Duration of study: The study was undertaken in the surgical departments of two Allied hospitals, Benazir Bhutto Hospital (BBH) and Holy Family Hospital (HFH), Rawalpindi from 10th February to 31st March 2009 during the Basant festival. Study Design: Retrospective cross sectional Study. Materials and Methods: Patients of all ages and either sex, who were victims of kite flying activity (directly or indirectly), were included in this study. Results: 139 (7.09% of all admissions) cases were found to be specifically related to kiteflying. 40 (28.78%) cases were of simple cuts on fingers caused directly through the string of the kite, with all patients having burn over the palmer aspect of at least one hand. Young boys were victim of fall from roof resulting in fractures, in 28 (20.1%) upper limb, in 13 (9.4% ) lower limb, in 12 (8.6% ) head trauma and 29 patients (20.9% ) had multiple bruises and lacerations while 15 (10.8% ) had neck injuries resulting from chemical-coated strings. 01 (0.72%) firearm injury was also reported. Conclusion: A preventive program should be developed to diminish the number of kiteflying- related invalidating sequels. Legislations are effective by providing automatic passive protections but educational reinforcement is also needed.