Crush Injury

Crush injuries occur when the hand or fingers are compressed or pinned by an object and subjected to significant force. Crush injuries can result in fractures, nerve damage, tendon tears and compromised blood flow. Early assessment and appropriate investigations are essential to determine the extent of injury and guide the most effective treatment plan.

Is this an emergency?

Urgent assessment is recommended if there is significant swelling, pain, deformity or difficulty moving the finger.

Please contact 1300HANDOC immediate for advice and further instructions.

Symptoms

• Pain
• Swelling
• Deformity
• Cuts and lacerations
• Loss of sensation, tingling, numbness
• Loss of function
• Vascular compromise appearing pale or discoloured and cool to touch
• Subungual haematoma (bleeding under the nail)

Common causes

• Tools, equipment and machinery
• Heavy falling objects
• Door or door hinges
• Falls
• Sporting accidents

Treatment

Depending on the mechanism and severity of the injury, crush injuries can be serious and require urgent medical assessment and treatment.

Please contact 1300HANDOC immediately for advice and further instructions.