Citation

Paux P, Bahuaud J. Med. Trop. (Mars) 1989; 49(3): 289-292.

Vernacular Title

Les accidents causés par les aiguillettes en Nouvelle-Caledonie et ses dépendances.

Affiliation

Hôpital d'Instruction des Armées Robert Picqué, Bordeaux.

Copyright

(Copyright © 1989, Ecole De Sante)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

2811657

Abstract

Garfish, which are found in the Indo-Pacific ocean areas, have a long spear-like beak with two narrow jaws and small pointed teeth. They often make sudden leaps while swimming, particularly when attracted by bright lights or when frightened by boats or by one of their predators, mainly in warm seasons. Serious injuries may be caused by a fish jumping and its beak piercing part of the body. The surface wound may appear deceptively small and innocent but if the wound is on the chest or abdomen the beak may have penetrated sufficiently deep to cause internal injuries and death may result. Patients may have to be admitted to the hospital for removal of the beak which may remain embedded in a limb.

Language: fr