Clinical profile and management of pediatric hand injuries in Lagos, South-west Nigeria - A retrospective study

Abstract

Background: The hand can be described as the sixth-sense organ due to its rich sensory innervations and its irreplaceable role in daily functioning. It is an organ of exploration, especially in the children; hence, higher predisposition to trauma. Early surgical treatment as required is expedient to prevent complications such as contractures due to rapid wound healing in these patients. Methods: The demographic characteristics of the patients, causes of injuries, treatment modalities, and outcome of treatment were documented after retrieving the information from the case notes. Results: A total of 352 hand cases were seen over 5 years. Out of this, 57 (16.3%) were pediatric patients. Burn injury was the most common cause of hand injury seen in 38.6% of patients, and fingertip injury was the most common form of open soft-tissue injury seen in 22.8% of cases. Hand fractures were infrequent. Conclusion: Closer monitoring of children is important for trauma prevention. Early intervention in the form of soft-tissue repair/skin resurfacing is important for improved outcome.