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Osteomyelitis of the hand after a human bite
M H Gonzalez1, P Papierski, R F Hall
1Department of Orthopaedics, University of Illinois, Chicago 60680.
The Journal of Hand Surgery
|May 1, 1993
Summary
Human bites can cause osteomyelitis of the hand, particularly from clenched-fist injuries. Delayed treatment or inadequate initial care increases infection risk and relapse potential.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Infectious Diseases
- Hand Surgery
Background:
- Osteomyelitis of the hand is a serious condition.
- Human bites are a significant cause of hand infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cases of osteomyelitis of the hand following human bites.
- To identify factors contributing to the development and recurrence of these infections.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of twenty-four cases of hand osteomyelitis after human bite.
- Analysis of injury mechanisms, treatment delays, and bacteriology.
Main Results:
- Injury mechanisms included incisor bites and clenched fists, with bone/cartilage damage noted in clenched-fist injuries.
- Delayed debridement (>24 hours) or inadequate initial treatment were key factors.
- Mixed infections with skin and oral flora were common, and relapse occurred in nine patients.
Conclusions:
- Human bite-induced hand osteomyelitis requires prompt and adequate treatment.
- Infections are prone to relapse, often necessitating multiple surgical debridements.