[Bite injuries of the hand]

Unfallchirurg. 2009 Aug;112(8):719-26; quiz 727. doi: 10.1007/s00113-009-1675-1.
[Article in German]

Abstract

Bite injuries of the hand have a clearly increased risk for infection compared with other regions. Surgical treatment of the wound is indicated, and the debridement must be done thoroughly and with consideration of the wound closure. Antibiotic therapy may be indicated in addition to the surgery if signs of infection exist. Antibiotics alone are not a suitable treatment. Common complications in cases of deficient primary therapy are flexor tenosynovitis, purulent arthritis, and phlegmons of the dorsal hand. These are emergencies and need immediate surgical intervention.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents / therapeutic use*
  • Bacterial Infections / drug therapy*
  • Bites and Stings / diagnosis*
  • Bites and Stings / therapy*
  • Debridement / methods*
  • Hand Injuries / diagnosis*
  • Hand Injuries / therapy*
  • Humans
  • Plastic Surgery Procedures / methods

Substances

  • Anti-Bacterial Agents