Citation

Pistré V, Rezzouk J. Chir. Main 2013; 32(4): 235-239.

Affiliation

Département de chirurgie plastique et chirurgie de la main, centre hospitalier de la Côte-Basque, 13, avenue de l'Interne-Jacques-Loeb, 64109 Bayonne cedex, France. Electronic address: vincent.pistre64@gmail.com.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2013, Elsevier Publishing)

DOI

10.1016/j.main.2013.04.011

PMID

23746826

Abstract

A mole gun is a weapon, which is used to trap and kill moles. This report provides an overview of the state of knowledge of mole gun injuries, comparable to blast injuries caused by fireworks, explosive or gunshot. Over a 2-year period, the authors reported their experience with ten hand injuries caused by mole gun. Radial side of the hand was often concerned, particularly the thumb. The authors explain their choices in the management of such lesions. Surgery was performed primarily and a large debridement currently seemed to offer the best outcome for the patient. Blast, crush, burns and lacerations may explain the higher rate of amputation to the digits. A long period of physiotherapy, specifically of the hand, was needed before the patient could return to work. This ballistic hand trauma encountered by surgeons requires knowledge and understanding of these injuries. It should be in accordance with firearms law because of severe injuries encountered and possible lethal wounds.

Language: en