Civilian Firearm and blast injuries of the Hand in Lagos, Nigeria

Abstract

A 6 year review of 43 patients who sustained Civilian firearm and blast injuries of the hand at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital was done. Majority of patients seen were young males (93.1%). The firearm injuries occurred during armed robbery attacks (80.1%), while majority(82.7%) of the blast injuries followed firework accidents during New year celebrations. The commonest pattern of injuries were soft tissue lacerations and avulsions. Others such as amputations, fractures, tendon and nerve disruptions occurred less frequently. The commonest surgical procedures performed include multiple debridements, skin grafts/flaps and other forms of wound closures. Fracture stabilization, tendon and nerve reconstruction were less commonly done. Over 92% required more than three surgical procedures, 63% of the patients studied were able return to their pre morbid occupations. In spite of the devastating injuries many patients managed were able to carry out most of the of their daily activities .

Keywords: Firearm , blast, hand , injuries