[Injuries of the hand caused by high-pressure air]

Based on two cases of accidental high-pressure air injection injury to the hand, we describe pathology, symptoms and therapeutic principles. Despite nontoxicity of injected air, the importance of acute surgical intervention must be emphasized, as there is a risk of high-pressure soft tissue damage. The treatment suggested is: 1) systemic medication including tetanus toxoid and antibiotics, 2) adequate incision, decompression, exploration, drainage and debridement under either general, plexus or i.v. anaesthesia. Postoperatively, the hand should be elevated, and a program of physical mobilisation should be started as soon as possible.