DefinePK

Abstract

Objective: This study aims to address the gap in knowledge by analyzing the common pathogens isolated from open fractures of extremities in children and their antimicrobial sensitivity patterns. 
Methodology: This descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted at the Children’s Hospital & University of Child Health Sciences, Lahore during Sep 2023 to Oct 2024. The study included a total of 220 pediatric patients, aged 1 to 16 years, who were admitted with open fractures of the extremities.
Results: Data were collected from 220 patients, with open fractures of extremities, with a male predominance (59%) and a mean age of 9.2 years. Road traffic accidents (45%) were the most common cause of injury, followed by falls (30%) and sports-related injuries (25%). Fracture severity was classified as Grade I (25%), Grade II (40%), and Grade III (35%), with a median time to hospital presentation of 6 hours (IQR: 4–12). These findings highlight the demographics, causes, and severity of injuries in this population. In Grade I fractures, 50% of cases were culture-positive, with polymicrobial infections observed in 4%. Grade II fractures had 85% culture-positive cases and 8% polymicrobial infections. Grade III fractures exhibited the highest infection rate at 94%, with polymicrobial infections present in 22% of cases.
Conclusion: It is concluded that open fractures of extremities in children are highly susceptible to infections, with Staphylococcus aureus being the most common pathogen and a significant prevalence of antibiotic-resistant strains like MRSA and ESBL-producing Gram-negative bacteria.