Neurological Sequelae in Cranioencephalic Trauma Patients at the National Hospital in Zinder (Niger)

Introduction: Cranioencephalic trauma is a frequent reason for admission to emergency departments and is a source of mild to severe neuropsychological defects that will persist over time. Their management remains difficult. Objectives: To evaluate the sequelae presented by patients suffering from cranioencephalic trauma. Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive, cross-sectional study conducted at the National Hospital of Zinder. It will include all patients admitted and hospitalised in the emergency, intensive care and neurosurgery departments of Zinder National Hospital for head injury over a period of 28 months from 1 January 2016 to 30 April 2018. Brain scan, X-ray were the imaging tests used. Results: Out of a total of 974 admissions, 367 were retained, i.e. 37.6%, with a male predominance (82.6%). The average age was 26.5 years. MVAs were represented in 89.7% of cases. Moderate CTE accounted for 64% of cases. Altered consciousness was reported in 295 patients (80.38% of cases). Brain scans were used in 76.7% of cases and skull X-rays in 4.2% of cases. Medical management was performed in all patients. Treatment was operative in 78 patients (21.25%). Recovery without immediate sequelae was found in 187 patients (50.9%). Persistent headache represented 47.7% of the late sequelae observed in the patients, epileptic seizures represented 16.8% of the late sequelae, neurological deficit represented 14.7%. Conclusion: Cranioencephalic trauma represents a major public health issue. Although their in-hospital management remains a challenge, post-hospital management related to the appearance of sequelae remains another.