Murphy Evelyn Patricia, Seoighe Deirdre, Beecher Suzanne, Baker Joseph F, Hussey Alan
* Department of Orthopaedics and Trauma Surgery, Galway University Hopsital, Galway, Ireland.
† Department of Plastic Surgery, Galway University Hospital Group, Galway, Ireland.
J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2018 Mar;23(1):149-152. doi: 10.1142/S2424835518720104.
Deliberate injection of hydrocarbon remains an uncommon method of self harm. There is a paucity of information pertaining to soft tissue toxicity throughout the literature. Prompt recognition of the potential ramifications is needed to try salvage limb function. Hydrocarbon toxicity can result in multi organ failure. This case report demonstrates the recommended diagnostic approach, work up and treatment involved in such a case. A 26 year old male deliberately injected petrol into the anterior compartment of his non dominant forearm in a suicide attempt. Multidisciplinary involvement from surgeons, psychiatrists and hand therapists was needed to maximize functional outcome. He avoided systemic toxicity but required an urgent fasciotomy. He required significant follow up with hand therapy to regain usage of the limb. However his long term outcomes were poor with a power grading 3/5 in the anterior compartment muscles.
