Chemical Injuries and Frostbite-Hydrofluoriti acid burns of the hand: Mechanism of injury and treatment

Hydrofluoriti acid burns of the hand: Mechanism of injury and treatment

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This document discusses the treatment of hydrofluoric acid (HF) burns, focusing specifically on burns to the hand. HF acid is a strong acid that can cause severe burns and tissue destruction due to its ability to penetrate the skin and react with tissue calcium ions. Prompt treatment is crucial to prevent progressive tissue destruction. The document describes one method of treatment, which involves immediate flushing with water and the application of calcium gluconate gel to neutralize the absorbed fluoride ions. In some cases, calcium gluconate injections may be necessary. The study includes 14 patients with HF burns to the hand, and all patients were treated with calcium gluconate gel. Most patients experienced prompt relief of pain and satisfactory results. However, in two cases where there was a delay in treatment, permanent impairment occurred. The document emphasizes the importance of early recognition and management of HF burns, as well as prevention through proper handling techniques and equipment use. The use of calcium gluconate gel is recommended as an effective first-aid measure for HF burns until medical assistance can be obtained. It also discusses other methods of treatment, such as topical application of magnesium oxide paste and ointments. The document concludes that the best treatment for HF burns is prevention, and that careful history and physical examination are important to accurately identify the concentration and extent of exposure to HF acid.

Keywords

hydrofluoric acid burns

hand burns

treatment

HF acid

tissue destruction

calcium gluconate gel

fluoride ions

water flushing

calcium gluconate injections

pain relief