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Volkmann’s contracture in high-voltage electrical injury

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Abstract

Burn injuries are a common form of trauma, it occurs in 1% of the population of Australasia each year. Of these injuries, the devastating effects of high-voltage electrical burns in deep-tissue injury causing compartment syndrome and subsequent Volkmann’s ischemic contracture are well documented. This report highlights the importance of early recognition of the severe electrical burn injury and its clinical consequences. Early identification through vigilant monitoring and diagnostic adjuncts, together with early intervention, whether conservative monitoring or operative management is of utmost importance in the prevention of ongoing complications and recovery from injury.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. NSW Severe Burn Injury Service, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, 410/17 Jean Wailes Avenue, Rhodes, NSW, 2138, Australia

    Chris S. Ahn

  2. NSW Severe Burn Injury Service, Concord Repatriation General Hospital, Burns Clinic, Level 7, Concord, NSW, 2139, Australia

    Peter K. M. Maitz

Authors
  1. Chris S. Ahn
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  2. Peter K. M. Maitz
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Correspondence to Chris S. Ahn.

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Ahn, C.S., Maitz, P.K.M. Volkmann’s contracture in high-voltage electrical injury. Eur J Plast Surg 33, 323–329 (2010). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-010-0508-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-010-0508-3

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