Emergency Department Visits for Hand and Finger Injuries Associated with the Use of Log Splitters.

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine patients treated in an emergency department (ED) for injuries related to the use of log splitters. Data were obtained from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System for the years 2011-2014. National estimates of ED visits for injuries associated with the use of log splitters were obtained, and descriptive epidemiological characteristics are presented. An estimated 37,000 ED visits for injuries related to the use of log splitters occurred during the study period. The majority of injuries occurred to the hand, with lacerations, fractures/avulsions, and amputations being the most common. The findings indicate that injuries from log splitters constitute a serious public health problem. Efforts to reduce injuries are discussed in accordance with the inherent challenges of detailing the circumstances surrounding these injuries.