The Simplest Method for Fishhook Removal: The String-Yank Technique.

Fishing is a popular recreational activity worldwide, but complications arise when fishhooks become embedded in the skin. Barbed hooks, due to their design, are particularly challenging to remove. While many individuals attempt self-extraction, some present to emergency departments for medical intervention. Several techniques, including the push-through and needle methods, are commonly employed for hook removal. The String-Yank technique, a simple yet effective approach, is frequently overlooked in clinical settings despite its wide use among fishermen. This case report demonstrates the string-yank technique in a 42-year-old male patient who presented with a 1.5-cm barbed hook embedded in his right little finger. After local anesthesia with lidocaine, the string-yank technique was performed, allowing for the rapid, painless removal of the hook without complications. Post-procedural care included wound disinfection and infection prevention counseling. The string-yank technique offers a minimally invasive, low-pain option for fishhook removal, particularly in superficial injuries. However, its application may be limited in cases of complex injuries or larger hooks. This report aims to provide a clear, step-by-step guide for this underutilized method, emphasizing its benefits in emergency care.