Traumatic Injuries to the Hand From the Use of an Angle Grinder. A Problem in Our Field
Abstract
Introduction: Hand injuries caused by angle grinders are frequent and generally take place among young adults. In developing countries, the domestic and informal work environments are the most frequent places where this could happen. The present study is aimed at describing associated factors to these types of injuries. Lesions were quantified and classified according to the severity and anatomic region of the hand involved. Methods: An epidemiologic, retrospective study was performed between 2016 and 2020. The patients’ level of education, previous experience using the machine, use of personal protective equipment (PPE), sex, and age were analyzed. To determine the pattern of the injuries, a clinical-anatomical and a detailed and individualized radiological analysis were performed on each patient. The severity was measured using the “Hand Injury Severity Score” (HISS). Results: 928 patients were studied (920 men, 8 women, average age of 42 years [range 18-67]). Only 22.4% were wearing PPE at the time of the accident. 776 participants were performing tasks for which the tool was not intended (84.5%). The left hand was the most affected (60%). In 784 patients, the injuries involved their fingers (84.48%); the predominant pattern was the index and middle finger (55%). According to the HISS, 24.1% were minor injuries, 41.3% were moderate, 26% were serious, and 8.6% were severe. Conclusions: Injuries caused by an angle grinder can be devastating. We believe that an epidemiological update is likely to increase the need to develop preventive methods to decrease its high incidence.Downloads
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