Assessment, Treatment, and Prevention Strategies for Hair-Thread Tourniquet Syndrome in Infants

The document from August 1, 2016, addresses Hair-thread tourniquet syndrome (HTTS), a condition where a hair or thread constricts an infant's digit or genitalia, risking tissue damage or amputation. It's often overlooked in diagnoses for irritable infants and is most prevalent in those aged 2 to 6 months, possibly linked to postpartum maternal hair loss. Prevention includes managing maternal hair loss, separate and inside-out washing of infant clothes, and regular checks of the infant's digits. Diagnosis is through physical examination, and treatment requires removal of the constricting material. Depilatory creams are an option for hair tourniquets not near mucous membranes or wounds; otherwise, cutting or surgery may be needed. Educating healthcare providers and parents on prevention and early detection is essential for positive outcomes.