Major injuries due to agricultural machinery

Agricultural accidents are a frequent cause of severe injury. Sixty-four patients with such injuries were seen from October 1981 through September 1984. The patients ranged in age from 2 to 73 years. The highest incidence of injury occurred during spring planting (May through June) and fall harvesting (September through October). The tractor and grain auger were the most common injuring agents. The upper extremity was the most common site of injury, followed by the lower extremity. Because such injuries are usually of a crushing nature and are heavily contaminated, extensive debridement and irrigation are essential in their care.