Trauma of the hand from circular saw table: a series of a 130 cases

Abstract

Introduction: Trauma of the hand from a circular saw table is a common occurrence in developing countries it tends to occur in young hand working people and it causes a serious lesions.

Materials and methods: It was a retrospective series about a 130 cases of hand trauma from circular saw table. Epidemiological features, treatment, and permanent disabilities left by hand trauma from circular saw table were studied to identify ways to prevent such an accident.

Results: The average age was 31.24 years, these patients were exclusively men, 62% were apprentice wood workers, and the left hand was twice more injured than the right hand. Regarding clinical aspects, in 77% of cases, two or more fingers were injured, tip amputations of the left fingers predominated (49%), in 50% of the cases of hand wounds occurred to the dorsum of the hand, and extensor tendon injuries were observed twice more than flexor tendon injuries. Regarding the surgical treatment, performing an amputation stump was the most practiced primary surgery (107 cases i.e. 82% of primary surgeries). Arthrodesis, reconstructive flap surgery, and spongy bone grafts were the most practiced secondary surgeries (79% of secondary surgeries). Joint stiffness was the most observed complication (26%).

Conclusion: Hand injuries from circular saw table such as those described in this study will continue to challenge the skill of surgeons devoted to the restoration of function and form to the damaged hand. Prevention, of course, should be the goal because of the severe functional and psychological impairment that may result from them.