Mardi Gras Eye Injury Survey, 1998-1999

Background. We studied the nature of associated ocular trauma during the 19 98 and 1999 New Orleans parade seasons and whether trends were observable f i om previous surveys. Methods, A prospective survey and retrospective analysis included 18 emerge ncy rooms (ERs) in the New Orleans area. Results. Sixteen surveys represent ing eight ERS were completed between February 19 and 24, 1998, and,72 surve ys representing five ERs were completed between February 5 and 17, 1999. In both years, the most common ocular complaints were pain, blur; foreign bod y sensation, tearing, and photophobia. The most common slit lamp findings i n 1998 were within normal limits, corneal abrasion, and conjunctival hypere mia. In 1999, the most common findings were subconjunctival hemorrhage, cor neal abrasion, cell and flare, and lid laceration. Conclusions. Projectile injuries of the eyes are common during Mardi Gras d ue to the nature of interaction between paradegoers and float riders. We fo und no identifiable trend in the number or type of injuries reported in 198 6, 1987, and 1998 Mardi Gras surveys.