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A method for the removal of tungsten carbide rings
Keith A Allen1, Marco Rizzo, Annie T Sadosty
1Department of Emergency Medicine, Mayo Clinic Health System, Eau Claire, Wisconsin, USA.
Background:
The removal of metal rings from fingers is a well-described process that often employs a toothed cutting wheel or bolt cutters to sever the ring and allow it to be pried open. However, tungsten carbide (TC) rings are impervious to these traditional ring-cutting devices.
Study Objectives:
We sought to describe a method for removal of TC rings from cadaveric fingers and characterize potential complications of the technique.
Methods:
On cadaveric fingers, we placed TC rings and created a snug fit by injecting a fluorescein and saline solution. The rings were removed by a controlled crushing technique using a pair of locking pliers. Fingers were inspected under magnification and using an LED (light-emitting diode) black light, and X-ray studies of each finger were obtained. Injuries were characterized.
Results:
Six rings were applied and successfully removed from six cadaveric fingers through controlled ring shatter. After ring removal, two fingers demonstrated superficial (<1 mm deep) lacerations, one of which had residual debris within the wound. No phalangeal fractures were identified.
Conclusion:
Removal of a TC ring can be performed through controlled crushing using locking pliers. Superficial lacerations and retained debris are potential complications.
