Citation

Ljungberg EM, Steen Carlsson K, Dahlin LB. Scand. J. Plast. Reconstr. Surg. Hand Surg. 2006; 40(3): 166-174.

Affiliation

Department of Hand Surgery, Malmo University Hospital, Lund University, Malmo.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2006, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1080/02844310500475727

PMID

16687337

Abstract

Ninety-six children aged 0-6 years with unintentional hand injuries were referred to the Department of Hand Surgery between 2002 and 2003. Either parents, medical staff, or both, completed a questionnaire (response rate 79/96; 82%) about the circumstances of the injury. The incidence of injuries referred for treatment was 33.4/10 000 people/year. Seventy-five percent (59/79) of all injuries occurred at home, and only 8% (6/79) in a day-care centre. The risk was highest between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. (incidence rate ratio 5.17, 95% confidence interval 2.12 to 17.7) and in 6 year old children (IRR 4.89, 95% CI 1.58 to 37.68). Adults were present when 66/79 children (84%) were injured. Most injuries occurred during play (39/79; 49%). Stuck in front doors (23/79; 29%) (closed by a child) was common. There was no increase in incidence in children with a foreign background (IRR 1.19, 95% CI 0.64 to 2.28). Advice about prevention will be distributed to parents to encourage safer environments in homes.

Language: en