Pediatric upper extremity fence-penetrating traumas

Abstract

Purpose; Penetrating hand injuries related to sharp metal or wooden fences are rarely reported in pediatric population. Most of these traumas occur after falling on the fence accidentally. The aim of this study is to evaluate the patient characteristics suffered from fence injuries and present our management. Methods; In this study 14 patients admitted to our emergency department with fence-post penetrating traumas, between March 2013 and April 2016 were examined retrospectively. 11 pediatric patients with fence-post penetrating trauma to upper extremity were included. Patient demographics, zone of injury, injury type, surgical intervention and follow-up results were documented. Statistical analysis was performed using chi-square test. Results; In the last four years, 11 patients between 4 and 15 years old with fence-related upper extremity traumas were treated in our clinic. Preteen age group was the most affected group. The most commonly penetrated region was below the elbow (seven patients). All wounds were surgically explored for accompanying injuries and repaired if any neurovascular or muscle injuries were present. Conclusion; It is necessary to understand these types of injuries in children in order to prevent and appropriately treat them.