RT Journal Article
SR Electronic
T1 Pediatric hand injuries
JF Canadian Family Physician
JO Can Fam Physician
FD The College of Family Physicians of Canada
SP 803
OP 810
VO 64
IS 11
A1 George Wahba
A1 Kevin Cheung
YR 2018
UL http://www.cfp.ca/content/64/11/803.abstract
AB Objective To present a practical and evidence-based approach for primary care physicians to the diagnosis and initial management of common pediatric hand injuries, and to identify injuries requiring prompt referral.Sources of information Clinical evidence and expert recommendations were identified by using MEDLINE and EMBASE for each topic presented.Main message Pediatric hand injuries are a common reason for physician consultation. The most common and potentially problematic pediatric hand injuries include fingertip injuries, phalangeal fractures, tendon injuries, and hand burns. Management is limited by difficulties in proper assessment of the hand and the paucity of evidence to guide treatment. Nevertheless, outcomes in children are typically excellent.Conclusion Appropriate assessment, initial management, and, if necessary, timely referral of pediatric patients with hand injuries are paramount given the importance of the hand in function and child development. While some principles from managing adult hand injuries might apply, children often require special considerations.