Emergency Management of an Eyelid Zipper Injury in a Child

Zipper injuries are rare in the pediatric emergency department, with most reported cases involving the penile and scrotal skin. Knowledge of appropriate zipper release techniques is important to ensure safe and immediate removal of entrapped tissue to prevent complications.

This case report describes a unique presentation of a zipper injury involving entrapment of the upper eyelid. We describe the successful removal of the zipper with gentle manipulation aided by mineral oil lubrication and by cutting fabric from the zipper system to release tension. WHY SHOULD AN EMERGENCY PHYSICIAN BE AWARE OF THIS?: While zipper injuries are rare, an emergency physician must be prepared to provide urgent intervention to prevent complications. This unique case report presents 1 example of successful zipper release in the case of a zipper injury to the eyelid in a child. We review other approaches for emergent zipper removal and discuss postprocedure care.