Case series of high pressure paint injection injuries in single digits in a tertiary referral centre over a one year period.

Abstract

High pressure injection injuries to upper extremities are largely rare occurrences. The direct and indirect effects of the injected substance can cause debilitating consequences for those affected and can lead to digit amputation. This case series includes three patients with high pressure injection injuries admitted to a single tertiary centre over one year. One patient was discharged from both plastic surgery and hand therapy 6 months post injury. He reports good function but has residual numbness and cold intolerance. The second individual is still linked to surgical outpatients and has ongoing hand therapy requirements, stiffness, and numbness 12 months post injury. The final patient represented three months post initial debridement with an infected finger that required amputation. Based on these findings, it is imperative that prompt surgical debridement occurs in conjunction with early hand therapy intervention to achieve optimal outcomes for patients.