Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 2, 2026
03:55
A Flexible Wearable Supernumerary Robotic Limb for Chronic Stroke Patients
Published on: October 27, 2023
Elastic bands on the wrist: a not so "silly" complication
Mandisa Anjail McIver1, Robert Francis Gochman
1Department of Emergency Medicine and Pediatrics, Long Island Jewish Medical Center/Cohen Children's Medical Center of New York, Long Island, NY, USA. mandisamciver@yahoo.com
Pediatric Emergency Care
|May 7, 2011
Summary
Elastic bands on children's wrists may cause acute compartment syndrome, a serious condition. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent permanent limb damage.
Area of Science:
- Pediatrics
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Emergency Medicine
Background:
- Acute compartment syndrome (ACS) is a limb-threatening emergency caused by increased pressure within fascial compartments.
- Untreated ACS can lead to tissue necrosis, nerve damage, and functional impairment.
Observation:
- A 2½-year-old girl presented with a swollen, blue hand after wearing an elastic band on her wrist.
- The presentation was suggestive of impending acute compartment syndrome.
Findings:
- While this patient did not ultimately receive an ACS diagnosis, the case highlights a potential risk.
- Elastic bands pose a risk for pediatric acute compartment syndrome.
Implications:
- Emphasizes the importance of recognizing potential risks associated with common objects like elastic bands.
- Underscores the need for prompt diagnosis and management of suspected compartment syndrome in children.
- Highlights the critical role of prevention and early intervention in avoiding permanent disability.
Related Concept Videos
01:16Muscles of the Forearm that Move the Hand and Fingers
The muscles of the forearm that move the wrist, hand, and digits are numerous and diverse. They can be classified into two groups based on their location and function — the anterior and posterior compartment muscles.
Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment muscles originate from the humerus. They primarily function as flexors and are also known as flexor muscles. They typically insert on the carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges. The superficial layer includes the flexor carpi radialis,...
Anterior Compartment
The anterior compartment muscles originate from the humerus. They primarily function as flexors and are also known as flexor muscles. They typically insert on the carpals, metacarpals, and phalanges. The superficial layer includes the flexor carpi radialis,...
01:15Bones of the Upper Limb: Ulna
The ulna and radius are parallel bones of the antebrachium or the forearm. The ulna lies medially and consists of a bony tip called the olecranon process at its proximal end. This hook-like projection articulates with the olecranon fossa of the humerus and forms the "hinged" ulnohumeral part of the elbow joint. This joint facilitates forearm extension and flexion while preventing its hyperextension. Similarly, the coronoid process, another bony projection on the proximal/anterior side of the...
01:24Healing II: Complications
Complications during healing arise when tissue repair is altered by local or systemic factors. These changes involve abnormal collagen deposition, altered biomechanics, and reduced vascular supply, impairing restoration of normal structure and function.Loss of FunctionScar tissue differs significantly from the original tissue it replaces. In the skin, fibrosis lacks adnexal structures such as hair follicles, sebaceous glands, and sweat glands. Their absence reduces tactile sensitivity, impairs...
01:12Elastin is Responsible for Tissue Elasticity
Elastic fiber contains the protein elastin along with lesser amounts of other proteins and glycoproteins. The main property of elastin is that it will return to its original shape after being stretched or compressed. Elastic fibers are prominent in elastic tissues found in skin and the elastic ligaments of the vertebral column.
Ligaments and tendons are made of dense regular connective tissue, but in ligaments not all fibers are parallel. Dense regular elastic tissue contains elastin fibers and...
Ligaments and tendons are made of dense regular connective tissue, but in ligaments not all fibers are parallel. Dense regular elastic tissue contains elastin fibers and...
01:10Pre-Procedural Guidelines for Assessing Blood Pressure
Accurate blood pressure assessment is crucial for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. To ensure the reliability of these measurements, healthcare professionals must adhere to standardized pre-procedural guidelines. These guidelines enhance patient safety and improve the overall quality of healthcare. The following steps are essential for obtaining accurate and consistent blood pressure readings, from using the appropriate tools to ensuring effective communication with the patient.
01:11Assessment of radial pulse
Assessment of Radial Pulse
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps:
The radial pulse, located at the wrist, is often the preferred site for assessing peripheral pulse because of its accessibility and dependability. The process of determining the radial pulse involves several steps: