Pediatric burns with snap-cap fireworks.
Publication/Presentation Date
3-1-2006
Abstract
Snap-caps are marketed as a relatively safe pyrotechnic (explosive) device for children 8 years and older. Individually, the snap-caps pose very little threat because the amount of explosive compounds contained in each is limited to 1 mg. However, the accidental explosion of numerous snap-caps may cause significant burns. This study highlights a series of pediatric patients who presented with severe second- and third-degree burns as a result of accidental explosion of snap-caps. Seven patients with snap-caps-related injuries were treated at the University of California, San Diego Regional Burn Center from January 1996 to April 1999. Study foci included 1) mode and extent of injury, 2) management, 3) associated morbidity, and 4) functional outcome. Six patients (84%) required hospital admission. Four patients (57%) underwent split-thickness skin grafting to repair mean TBSA burns of 4.1% (range, 2-8%). Three patients (43%) received aggressive management of burns with topical medications and dressing changes. The nature and extent of snap-cap injuries support the contention that snap-caps have the potential to harm children to whom they are marketed.
Volume
27
Issue
2
First Page
218
Last Page
220
ISSN
1559-047X
Published In/Presented At
Karamanoukian, R. L., Kilani, M., Lozano, D., Sundine, M., Karamanoukian, H. L., Delarosa, J., … Evans, G. R. D. (2006). Pediatric burns with snap-cap fireworks. Journal Of Burn Care & Research: Official Publication Of The American Burn Association, 27(2), 218–220
Disciplines
Surgery
PubMedID
16566570
Department(s)
Department of Surgery, Department of Surgery Faculty
Document Type
Article