Chandigarh: Firecracker-related accidents and other emergencies kept hospitals busy in Chandigarh on Diwali, with a total of 1,457 patients seeking medical attention. Seven patients were referred to the Postgraduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, where they are undergoing treatment for serious injuries.
At PGI, seven patients were admitted to the Plastic Surgery Department following firecracker accidents and incidents of negligence while bursting crackers. Four patients suffered severe hand injuries after firecrackers exploded in their hands, while three others sustained burns after their clothes caught fire.
According to the department, three of the four patients with hand injuries required surgery at the Advanced Trauma Centre (ATC). Doctors have performed the necessary operations on them. The fourth patient does not currently require surgery and is being treated through regular wound dressing.
Three patients suffer burns after clothes catch fire
The three other patients admitted to PGI sustained thermal burns after their clothing caught fire while bursting firecrackers. Their injuries cover approximately 15% to 20% of their body surface.
All three have been admitted to the Burn High Dependency Unit (HDU) in the Plastic Surgery Department, where they are receiving treatment under medical supervision.
1,450 patients treated at other Chandigarh hospitals
Apart from the seven patients referred to PGI, 1,450 people sought treatment at other hospitals in Chandigarh on Diwali.
These included 189 burn cases, 37 eye injuries and 47 cases related to road accidents. One patient with an eye injury was referred to PGI for further treatment.
Government Medical Super Speciality Hospital in Sector 16 reported the highest number of burn cases, with 87 patients. The hospital also recorded 29 cases of eye injuries.
Doctors warn against bursting firecrackers in hand
Doctors have cautioned people against holding firecrackers while lighting them, warning that an explosion in the hand can cause serious damage to the skin, muscles and other tissues.
Such injuries may require surgery, depending on their severity. Doctors have also warned that when clothing catches fire, the flames can spread and cause burns over a large part of the body.
People have been advised to maintain a safe distance from firecrackers and follow precautions while lighting them to avoid serious injuries.