Management of Abdominal Trauma in Northwestern Nigeria: A Decade of Experience at a Tertiary Hospital

Abstract Background: Abdominal trauma remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Nigeria, with distinct epidemiological patterns and management challenges compared to developed nations. Objective: The objective of this study was to analyse the patterns, management strategies and outcomes of abdominal trauma in a resource-limited tertiary hospital setting in Northwestern Nigeria over 10 years. Methodology: This retrospective cross-sectional study analysed all patients with confirmed abdominal trauma admitted to the General Surgery unit of Usmanu Danfodiyo University Teaching Hospital, Sokoto, from January 2013 to December 2023. Data were collected from patient records and analysed using SPSS version 23. Binary logistic regression was performed to identify independent predictors of mortality. Results: A total of 367 patients were managed during the study period. Males predominated (75.7%, n = 278) with a male-to-female ratio of 5.4:1. The majority (65.4%) were aged 18–45 years. Penetrating trauma accounted for 78.7% of cases, with gunshot wounds being the most common mechanism (42.5%). The spleen (33.8%) and liver (26.7%) were the most frequently injured organs in blunt abdominal trauma. The overall mortality rate was 19.4% ( n = 71). Independent predictors of mortality included late presentation (>12 h), shock at admission, intensive care unit requirement and need for repeat surgery ( P < 0.05). Conclusion: Abdominal trauma in Northwestern Nigeria predominantly affects young males through penetrating mechanisms, reflecting regional security challenges. The high mortality rate compared to developed countries highlights the need for improved pre-hospital care, early presentation strategies and enhanced diagnostic capabilities in resource-limited settings.