Pediatric mutilating hand injuries.

Mutilating hand injuries in children are a devastating problem. With aggressive efforts at replantation and revascularization, methodic debridement, timely soft tissue coverage, and early mobilization, however, the results in these unfortunate children can be quite rewarding. The child often does well with the functional aspect of recovery and rehabilitation but will probably hide his or her deformed hand from friends and family. These children generally become more shy and reserved. The parents are the key to rehabilitation. A good relationship between the parent, the physician, and the hand therapist is essential for the best result. Interestingly, the parents who are the most demanding on the staff during the initial emergency period are often the most appreciative parents and their children often achieve the best result. Conscientious parents are the best advocates for their children. Obviously, the prevention of these devastating injuries is much preferable to extraordinary heroic reconstruction. Unfortunately, some injuries are inevitable. It is nearly impossible to create an absolutely hazard-free environment for children. Potential injuries can be avoided, however, simply by keeping hazardous machines and equipment out of the reach of the child and by keeping children out of the potentially dangerous workplace.