The Neglected Bands: Untethering their Effects

Elastic bands such as forgotten thread ties on limbs or as accidental hair tied around genitalia, are mostly found in India. These are uncommon presentations, commonly seen in children <6 years old. Due to a variable period of presentation, they lead to various complications such as infection, edema, gangrene, ulceration, amputation, and functional loss. The longer the band is left in situ, the greater is the damage caused by them. Early diagnosis and surgical management are of utmost importance to save the involved extremity/body part. Surgical treatment involves exploration, identification, and safe removal of the involved band along with reconstruction of damaged structures, if any. In most of the cases, a good functional outcome is seen. As they can mimic signs and symptoms of compartment syndrome or constricting circumferential scar with ulcers and sinuses, a high index of suspicion is required for their diagnosis and management.