THE IMPACT OF THE BROADER SOCIAL COMMUNITY ON THE PREVENTION OF SEVERE TRAUMATIC DEFORMITIES IN CHILDREN – A CASE SERIES
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.46793/PP260307019SKeywords:
pyrotechnic devices, injuries, childrenAbstract
Introduction: The use of pyrotechnic devices among children and adolescents, particularly during holiday seasons, is highly prevalent worldwide as a form of entertainment. Improper handling of these explosive devices frequently results in severe injuries, including blast wounds and burns. Despite appropriate medical treatment, such injuries often lead to significant deformities and long-term disability. The fingers and hands are most commonly affected, representing crucial anatomical structures for the performance of manual activities, although injuries to the eyes, face, and chest are also observed. The aim of this study is to emphasize the seriousness of the consequences of improper handling of pyrotechnic devices, as well as to highlight the importance of prevention and the mitigation of trauma-related outcomes.
Case Series: We present 10 patients injured by pyrotechnic devices during the New Year holiday periods from 2024 to 2026 (December and January), who were treated at the Clinic for Pediatric Surgery, Pediatric Orthopedics and Traumatology, University Clinical Center Nis. The injuries consisted predominantly of complex hand trauma, but also affecting other body regions such as the face, neck, and chest.
Conclusion: Given that injuries caused by pyrotechnic devices result not only in severe physical deformities but also have a profound impact on mental health and overall quality of life in children and adolescents, the role of prevention is unequivocal. Preventive efforts should reflect shared societal responsibility, implemented through public media outreach, school-based initiatives, and education of both parents and children.
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