M J Keating1. 1. Chicago Blackhawks Hockey Club, Chicago, IL.
Abstract
OBJECTIVE: To present an uncommon athletic soft tissue wound and its proper management. BACKGROUND: Soft tissue wounds are common in athletic competition. However, the subcategory of puncture wounds due to impalement by foreign bodies is quite rare. Although initial observation of a puncture wound may show minimal injury and blood loss, one must be concerned about damage to underlying structures and risk of infection. DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: Fracture, tendon injury, neurovascular compromise, soft tissue injury. TREATMENT: When dealing with an impaled foreign object, it is vital to stabilize the injured area and leave the object in place. Prompt evaluation and removal by a physician is necessary. Also, the risk of infection is significant after a puncture wound, and prophylactic antibiotics should be considered. UNIQUENESS: Impalement by foreign objects is rare in sports, particularly hockey. Incorrect management of athletes with this injury could lead to additional morbidity. CONCLUSIONS: Although puncture wounds and impalement by foreign objects are not frequently seen in athletes, proper recognition, treatment, and management are essential to avoid complications and loss of function.
OBJECTIVE: To present an uncommon athletic soft tissue wound and its proper management. BACKGROUND: Soft tissue wounds are common in athletic competition. However, the subcategory of puncture wounds due to impalement by foreign bodies is quite rare. Although initial observation of a puncture wound may show minimal injury and blood loss, one must be concerned about damage to underlying structures and risk of infection. DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS: Fracture, tendon injury, neurovascular compromise, soft tissue injury. TREATMENT: When dealing with an impaled foreign object, it is vital to stabilize the injured area and leave the object in place. Prompt evaluation and removal by a physician is necessary. Also, the risk of infection is significant after a puncture wound, and prophylactic antibiotics should be considered. UNIQUENESS: Impalement by foreign objects is rare in sports, particularly hockey. Incorrect management of athletes with this injury could lead to additional morbidity. CONCLUSIONS: Although puncture wounds and impalement by foreign objects are not frequently seen in athletes, proper recognition, treatment, and management are essential to avoid complications and loss of function.