High-Pressure Injection Injury of the Hand-A Rare but True Surgical Emergency

Area of Science:

• Trauma Surgery
• Hand Surgery
• Occupational Medicine

Background:

• High-pressure injection injuries are rare but can lead to significant tissue destruction.
• Initial presentation may be deceptively benign, masking severe underlying damage.
• Prompt recognition and understanding of injury mechanisms are vital for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the characteristics of high-pressure injection hand injuries.
• To emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and treatment.
• To identify etiological and prognostic factors for better patient outcomes.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective study of 16 patients with high-pressure injection injuries.
• Inclusion of various injected materials: water, air, paint, petroleum jelly, lime.
• Evaluation of epidemiological data, time to diagnosis, treatment, and outcomes.

Main Results:

• Injuries predominantly occurred in the workplace due to negligence.
• Oil-based paint was a common agent (31.25%).
• The volar surface of the distal phalanx of the non-dominant hand's index finger was most affected; delayed diagnosis led to amputation in one case.

Conclusions:

• High-pressure injection injuries are emergencies requiring immediate recognition.
• Delayed diagnosis can result in extensive tissue destruction and severe functional sequelae.
• Effective management is critical to avoid limb loss and preserve socio-professional life.