A study of clinical manifestations of otorhinolaryngological trauma following road traffic accident at a rural tertiary care centre .

Road traffic accidents stand as one of the leading causes of mortality and morbidity across the globe. The reasons for the high burden of road traffic injuries (RTAs) in developing countries are increasing in the number of motor vehicles, poor enforcement of traffic safety regulations, inadequacy of health infrastructure and poor transport facility. However, the systematic collection of road traffic data is not well developed in many developing countries including India and under-reporting of RTAs and deaths are common. Hence, surveillance of RTAs is recommended to assess the burden, to identify high-risk groups, to establish an association with probable risk factors and to plan interventions to control the RTAs. A clearly defined road safety policy, a central coordinating agency, allocation of adequate resources, strict implementation of proven and effective interventions and reliable information systems are urgently required. Otorhinolaryngologic trauma is an area of major concern as it is a frequent accompaniment of RTAs and vital sensory end organs are located here. The morbidity, mortality, disability and economic loss occurring because of the road mishap are irreparable. Otorhinolaryngologists play a vital role in the management of the road traffic accidents if timely intervention is given. So this study is being undertaken to study the clinical manifestations of the otorhinolaryngological trauma associated with RTA with its risk factors and outcomes at a rural setting in central India.