Crush Injuries

Crush injuries of the hand are among the most serious and complex upper extremity injuries, occurring when the hand is caught in machinery, pressed between heavy objects, or subjected to high-force compression. They can involve simultaneous damage to skin, bone, tendons, nerves, and blood vessels, requiring urgent and often multistage surgical care.

Mechanisms and Severity

Crush injuries range from fingertip crush injuries (the most common) to degloving injuries and mangling injuries involving multiple structures. Industrial machinery, vehicle accidents, and heavy equipment are common causes in the workplace.

Compartment syndrome — dangerous elevation of pressure within the fascial compartments of the hand or forearm — is a critical complication of crush injuries that requires emergency fasciotomy to prevent permanent muscle and nerve damage.

Treatment

Treatment is staged based on injury severity. Emergency care addresses vascular compromise, compartment syndrome, and wound contamination. Fractures are stabilized, devitalized tissue is debrided, and wound coverage is planned.

Subsequent stages address tendon and nerve repair, bone grafting, skin grafting or flap coverage, and ultimately rehabilitation. Dr. Kinchelow coordinates comprehensive care to maximize functional recovery.

Common Symptoms

Severe pain and swelling after compression
Skin discoloration or loss
Inability to move fingers
Numbness or loss of sensation
Tight, tense compartments (compartment syndrome)
Bone deformity or exposed bone

Treatment Options

Emergency fasciotomy for compartment syndrome
Fracture stabilization
Wound debridement and irrigation
Vascular repair if indicated
Tendon and nerve repair
Skin grafting or flap coverage
Staged reconstruction and hand therapy

Ready to Get Help?

Dr. Kinchelow specializes in treating crush injuries. Schedule a consultation today.

Request Appointment (954) 635-5300