Chronic microtraumatic digital pulpitis in plastic surgeons: a common affliction seldom reported?
- نوع فایل : کتاب
- زبان : انگلیسی
- مؤلف : Ayad Harb & Adam R. Sawyer & Nicholas Bennett
- چاپ و سال / کشور: 2011
Description
Introduction Chronic microtraumatic digital pulpitis is a painful, fissuring dermatitis of the dominant finger pulps associated with repetitive traumatic injury to the hands. It is regarded as an occupational hazard and has been reported in chefs, postal workers and dental technicians. Case reports We present two cases of progressive digital pulpitis in plastic surgeons secondary to surgical instrument chronic microtrauma and repetitive washing and disinfection. Their symptoms had progressed from minor erythema and flaking of the finger pulp skin to more severe skin loss, fissuring and hyperkeratosis. Dermatologists’ opinions were sought, and the management strategy has been conservative. Regular emollients and topical steroids have provided some symptomatic relief but have failed to effectively treat the affected areas or prevent recurrence. These represent the first reported cases of chronic digital pulpitis in surgeons. Discussion This condition is chronic, progressive and painful and is related to operative workload. It can be associated with significant physical morbidity and considerable distress and anxiety for the surgeon affected. Little is known about the pathogenesis and management is primarily conservative, although it provides little relief in most cases. This condition is likely to be common amongst surgeons and should gain greater recognition as a potential occupational hazard in surgery.
Eur J Plast Surg (2011) 34:289–291 DOI 10.1007/s00238-010-0465-x Received: 5 January 2010 / Accepted: 3 June 2010 / Published online: 17 June 2010
