Abstract:
Animal injection-related needlestick injuries are a common occupational hazard for livestock workers and veterinarians. Although often unreported, these injuries can cause significant damage and may require extensive medical and surgical management. This case describes a 69-year-old farmer who accidentally injected his forearm while vaccinating cattle, resulting in a flexor compartment infection. Conservative management with oral and intravenous antibiotics was unsuccessful, and he required multiple surgical debridements for definitive treatment.
CONCLUSIONS:: Animal injection-related needlestick injuries can present unique challenges to orthopaedic surgeons. Important considerations include the injury location, needle type, vaccine volume and components, injection pressure, and environmental contaminants.
Reference:
Reasoner, K., Gebhart, S. S. and Lee, D. H. (2020) Flexor Compartment Infection Secondary to Bovine Injection Needlestick Injury: A Case Report. JBJS Case Connector. 10(3), p.e2000081. https://doi.org/10.2106/JBJS.CC.20.00081