Penetrating head injury from nailguns: a case series from New Zealand.
Penetrating head injury from nailguns has become increasingly recognised due to their frequent use in the construction industry and home. We report a New Zealand case series of 12 penetrating nailgun head injuries, the largest of its type, detailing presentation, management, risk factors and outcomes. Recommendations based on these factors are provided, suggesting a minimal surgical approach and an individually case-assessed need for antibiotic prophylaxis and anti-epileptic drugs. Prognostic factors on initial imaging are discussed. The majority of injuries, despite being visually impressive, are associated with minimal neurological impairment.
Winder
Mark J
MJ
Department of Neurosurgery, Auckland City Hospital and Starship Children's Hospital, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
Monteith
Stephen J
SJ
Lightfoot
Nicholas
N
Mee
Edward
E
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D020197:Head Injuries, Penetrating / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009520:New Zealand; D014057:Tomography, X-Ray Computed; D014948:Wounds, Gunshot / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery