Hair-Thread Tourniquet Syndrome in an Infant With Bony Erosion
October 2006
in “
Annals of Plastic Surgery
”
TLDR A hair wrapped tightly around an infant's toe caused severe damage, requiring early removal and possibly surgery to prevent worse outcomes like amputation.
The document reports on a 3-month-old infant with Hair-Thread Tourniquet Syndrome, where a hair had tightly wrapped around the infant's toe, causing skin and soft tissue damage and bony erosion. A literature review and meta-analysis included in the document identified over 200 cases, mostly in young patients and often accidental, though nonaccidental causes should be considered. The document highlights the necessity of early detection and removal of the constricting material to avoid severe outcomes, including amputation. It also notes the potential usefulness of x-rays in detecting deep tourniquets and the importance of careful evaluation before suggesting nonaccidental injury. Management may require surgical intervention and ongoing monitoring post-removal. The case is the first reported instance of bony erosion visible on x-ray due to this syndrome, and the document aims to increase awareness among healthcare professionals.
