Complex Soft Tissue Injuries Following Elevator Door Entrapment: A Case Report Including Surgical Management
Abdulla A Fakhro1,2, Hasan H Al Ajmi2, Mohamed Mahmoud2
1Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Houston Methodist Hospital, Houston, USA.
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We present the case of a 28-year-old female who sustained multiple, complex soft tissue injuries, including a significant avulsion-type laceration in the gluteal region, following entrapment in an elevator door. The patient presented with a primary vertically oriented laceration measuring 21 cm over the right buttock, characterized by extensive undermining, alongside secondary lacerations to the posterior thigh and lateral malleolus. Prompt surgical intervention was performed following plastic surgery principles of careful debridement, thorough irrigation, and tension-free, layered closure. Postoperatively, the wound was managed with negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT), resulting in an excellent functional and esthetic outcome without complications at two-week and six-month follow-up. This case underscores the critical role of the plastic surgeon in the immediate and definitive management of high-energy, complex soft tissue trauma. Furthermore, we review the literature concerning elevator-related injuries and the application of the reconstructive elevator concept in managing such challenging wounds.
