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High-pressure injection injuries to the hand
Southern Medical Journal
|December 1, 1982
Summary
High-pressure injection injuries to the hand, especially from paint or spray guns, can cause severe impairment. Prompt treatment, including decompression and antibiotics, is crucial for better outcomes in these hand injuries.
Area of Science:
- Trauma Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Occupational Health
Background:
- High-pressure injection injuries (HPIIs) to the hand are uncommon but can lead to severe morbidity.
- Understanding factors influencing prognosis is essential for effective management.
Observation:
- Analysis of 14 HPII cases.
- Factors evaluated included injury mechanism, injected substance, injection site, and treatment delay.
- Outcomes were assessed based on resulting impairment.
Findings:
- Paint/spray gun injuries and those to digits were most devastating.
- Paints, thinners, and solvents caused significant impairment.
- Delayed treatment compromised outcomes; steroids showed potential benefit.
Implications:
- Early recognition and aggressive treatment (decompression, antibiotics, tetanus prophylaxis) are vital.
- Judicious steroid use may reduce long-term impairment.
- Despite treatment, significant impairment can occur in HPIIs.