Related Experiment Videos
Paediatric hand injuries caused by spiked railings
1Northern Ireland Plastic and Maxillo-Facial Service, Ulster Hospital, Dundonald, Belfast, UK. tuabin.rasheed@net.ntl.com
Journal of Hand Surgery (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|December 22, 1999
Summary
Spiked palisade railings cause severe hand injuries in children, including fractures and nerve damage. Redesigning railings or implementing legislation could prevent these common, preventable injuries.
Area of Science:
- Trauma surgery
- Pediatric orthopedics
- Public health
Background:
- Palisade railings are common safety barriers.
- Hand injuries in children are a significant concern.
Observation:
- Five cases of hand injuries from spiked palisade railings were reported.
- All patients were males aged 9-12 years.
- Injuries included open fractures, nail bed disruption, digital nerve injuries, and impalement.
Findings:
- Two patients presented with impaled railings, one with an ischemic digit.
- The injuries were severe, requiring medical intervention.
- All cases occurred within a one-month period.
Implications:
- Spiked palisade railings pose a substantial risk for pediatric hand injuries.
- Legislation or design modifications for railings are recommended to prevent future injuries.
- Public health initiatives may be needed to address this safety issue.