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- Title
NS05 PENETRATING HEAD INJURY FROM NAILGUNS: THE NEW ZEALAND EXPERIENCE. A CASE SERIES.
- Authors
Monteith, S. J.; Winder, M. J.; Lightfoot, N.; Mee, E.
- Abstract
Introduction Penetrating head injury from nailguns has become increasingly recognised due to their frequent use in the construction industry and home. We report a New Zealand case series of 12 penetrating nailgun injuries, the largest of its type, detailing presentation, management, risk factors and outcomes. Methods The Auckland Neurosurgical Unit database was reviewed to identify cases of cranio-cerebral nailgun trauma. In addition we surveyed the clinical directors of the remaining three Neurosurgical units in New Zealand for cases that had presented to their institution. From the identified cases we performed a chart review to identify demographics; past medical and psychiatric history; details surrounding the event; surgical management and clinical outcomes. Results All 12 cases were male, with a mean age of 38 years. All but one case involved one nail of 3–12 cm in length. The other case involved a staggering 24 nails of 5cm length and represents the largest number of intra-cranial nails in a surviving patient. GCS at presentation ranged from 3 to 15. All four patients who had a GCS less than 11 at presentation died. Two thirds of cases demonstrated a psychiatric history and three quarters of cases were attempted suicide. Operative intervention ranged from non-operative, to a small craniotomy or craniectomy depending on the case. Conclusion This case series would suggest a minimal surgical approach and individual case assessment regarding the need for antibiotic prophylaxis and anti-epileptic drugs. A surprisingly good outcome can occur in many of these patients.
- Subjects
NEW Zealand; ABSTRACTS; HEAD injuries; PNEUMATIC nailers; CRANIOTOMY; ANTICONVULSANTS; NEUROLOGICAL nursing
- Publication
ANZ Journal of Surgery, 2007, Vol 77, p53
- ISSN
1445-1433
- Publication type
Article
- DOI
10.1111/j.1445-2197.2007.04124_5.x