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Snowblower injuries to the hand
1Department of Surgery, Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, Springfield 62708.
The Journal of Trauma
|February 1, 1989
Summary
Snowblower injuries, often to dominant hand fingers, occur when clearing jammed chutes. Operator carelessness during heavy snowfall is the primary cause, highlighting the need for public awareness of snowblower hazards.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic surgery
- Public health
- Consumer product safety
Background:
- Snowblowers are common tools for winter snow removal.
- Improper operation can lead to severe hand injuries.
Observation:
- A 3-year study identified 13 cases of hand trauma from snowblower misuse.
- Injuries predominantly affected the long and ring fingers of the dominant hand.
- Factors influencing injury frequency included snowfall depth, temperature, and snow wetness.
Findings:
- Twenty-two digits in 13 patients sustained injuries, including fractures and three amputations.
- Injury mechanism involved clearing impacted snow from the snowblower chute.
- Operator inexperience was not a significant factor.
Implications:
- Operator carelessness is the main cause of snowblower-related hand injuries.
- Public education on snowblower hazards during heavy snowfall can prevent injuries.
- Prompt surgical debridement and repair are standard treatment for these traumas.