Shrimp winch injuries.
BACKGROUND
Shrimp winch injuries range from phalangeal injuries to life-threatening limb amputations. The injuries often result in significant morbidity, significant cost, and lengthy hospitalizations. There are usually insufficient or nonexistent safety mechanisms on the boats to prevent these injuries. No international, federal, or state agencies regulate safety in the shellfish industry. The injuries are relatively rare, but likely underreported.


METHODS
We retrospectively reviewed 19 cases of injuries resulting from the use of shrimp winches in a 20-year period at our institution. In addition, people who use shrimp winches were interviewed and current regulations were researched.


RESULTS
All patients were men with an average age of 46.5 years. There were 17 upper extremity injuries, ranging in severity from crushed finger tips to transhumeral amputations, and two lower extremity injuries. A classification system based on injury pathomechanics and severity is offered. During inspection of local shrimp boats, the winch system was often in poor condition. No International, federal, state, or local regulations guiding the shellfish industry were found.


CONCLUSIONS
Injuries from the use of shrimp winches are rare, but may be underreported. However, they can be severe when they do occur. Stronger safety guidelines need to be put into practice to prevent these serious injuries.
Schroeder
Frank A
FA
Department of Orthopaedic Surgery and Rehabilitation, University of Texas Medical Branch, Texas, USA.
Viegas
Steven F
SF
Carmichael
Kelly
K
D000328:Adult; D001134:Arm Injuries / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D015331:Cohort Studies; D005398:Fisheries / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D009784:Occupational Diseases / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000628:therapy; D016272:Occupational Health / Q000331:legislation & jurisprudence; D012189:Retrospective Studies; D012307:Risk Factors; D012758:Shellfish; D015599:Trauma Severity Indices; D014481:United States