Accidental high-pressure injection-gun injuries of the hand; the role of the emergency radiologic examination.

High-pressure injection-gun injuries of the hand are serious accidents and constitute a surgical emergency. Radiography is an important part of the pre-operative evaluation. Without adequate films, it is frequently impossible to estimate the extent of underlying trauma. It is imperative that physicians who initially care for injection-gun accident patients be aware of the unique features of these injuries. Delay in the institution of adequate therapy may result in needless and permanent disability.