Localized hand burns with or without concurrent blast injuries from fireworks.

Abstract

This is a retrospective study of 32 cases with localized hand burns from fireworks. All cases occurred during two national festivals of our country. The majority (54%) were children between 5 and 14 years, and 94% were males. All patients had localized hand burns. Patients were divided into two groups. Group I (n=10) patients had isolated burn injuries and Group II (n=22) patients had other concurrent hand injuries from the 'blast' of the fireworks such as tendon avulsion, nerve injury, fracture, dislocations, and amputations. Primary management of concurrent injuries along with dressing to the burn injury in a "flamazine bag" was done. All burns healed within 3 weeks and all surgical wounds/fractures healed without infection. Three patients required secondary release of contractures and skin grafting. Eventually, all patients were able to use their injured hands in daily activities.