Accidental injuries during muslim pilgrimage.

OBJECTIVE The diseases that occur during Hajj are a unique medical problem. The aim of this study is to highlight the incidence, the type and the early surgical management of trauma during the Hajj period. METHODS A prospective study was carried out during a 15 day-period conducted in two parts in the emergency room, and a follow-up of the admitted patients in the surgical department. RESULTS The number of trauma cases who attended the emergency department was 713 patients, 248 patients were admitted in different surgical departments, together with the intensive-care unit. Sixty-five percent of the patients were discharged from emergency room as they had minor trauma. Sixty percent were involved in road traffic accidents, 15% had injuries in Holy Haram. Limb fracture accounts for 53% of total trauma admissions. Two patients died in the first 48 hours. CONCLUSION Trauma during Hajj is a real surgical problem which deserves more attention. Orthopedic and Neurosurgical cases are the most common surgical cases during the Hajj period.