Our Summary

The research paper discusses injuries related to handling avocados, particularly while attempting to remove the pit. The study collected data from three centers in the UK over four years. Out of 35 patients and 42 injuries studied, most were young males, with an average age of 33. An overwhelming 85% of injuries occurred during the process of removing the avocado pit.

Interestingly, all injuries happened to the non-dominant hand, with 70% of wounds located in a specific area referred to as “zone 3”. All of the injuries required some form of surgical intervention, and patients needed to return for follow-up visits between one to six times.

The injuries were often serious, impacting tendons, nerves, pulleys, and the joint capsule, all of which needed repair or exploration. The study argues for the need for public education and caution when preparing avocados to avoid these injuries. This is the largest study so far that has reviewed the surgical management of “avocado hand” injuries.

FAQs

  1. What demographic was most commonly affected by “avocado hand” injuries according to the study?
  2. What types of injuries were most frequently seen in the study related to handling avocados?
  3. What is the significance of “zone 3” in the context of these avocado-related injuries?

Doctor’s Tip

A helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about hand surgery is to be cautious and mindful when handling sharp objects, such as knives, especially when preparing foods like avocados. It is important to use proper technique and tools to avoid accidental injuries that may require surgical intervention. Additionally, seeking medical attention promptly if an injury occurs can help prevent further complications and ensure proper treatment.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended hand surgery include those who have sustained injuries to their hands that require surgical intervention. In this case, patients who have suffered from “avocado hand” injuries, such as tendon, nerve, pulley, or joint capsule damage, would likely be recommended for hand surgery to repair or explore the affected areas. Additionally, patients who have persistent pain, limited range of motion, or other complications from their hand injuries may also be recommended for hand surgery.

Timeline

Before hand surgery:

  • Patient experiences an injury while trying to remove an avocado pit
  • Injury typically occurs in the non-dominant hand in a specific area known as “zone 3”
  • Patient may experience pain, swelling, and limited mobility in the affected hand
  • Patient may seek medical attention and undergo imaging tests to assess the extent of the injury

After hand surgery:

  • Patient undergoes surgical intervention to repair damaged tendons, nerves, pulleys, and joint capsule
  • Patient may need to return for follow-up visits between one to six times
  • Patient undergoes rehabilitation and physical therapy to regain strength and mobility in the hand
  • Patient may experience pain and discomfort during the recovery process
  • Patient is advised to avoid similar injuries in the future through public education and caution while handling avocados

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What are the possible risks and complications associated with hand surgery for an avocado-related injury?
  2. What is the expected recovery time and rehabilitation process following hand surgery for this type of injury?
  3. Will I need any special accommodations or modifications to my daily activities during the recovery period?
  4. Are there any long-term implications or potential limitations to consider after undergoing hand surgery for an avocado-related injury?
  5. What can I do to prevent future injuries while handling avocados or other similar fruits in the future?
  6. Are there specific exercises or therapies that can help improve the strength and flexibility of my hand following surgery?
  7. How can I ensure that the surgical site heals properly and minimize the risk of infection or other complications?
  8. Will I need any follow-up appointments or additional treatments after the initial surgery?
  9. Are there any dietary or lifestyle changes that can help promote healing and prevent future injuries to my hands?
  10. Are there any specific warning signs or symptoms I should watch out for that may indicate a complication or issue with the surgical site?

Reference

Authors: Sajid S, Gill J, Chojnowski A, Singh R. Journal: J Hand Surg Asian Pac Vol. 2020 Dec;25(4):402-406. doi: 10.1142/S2424835520500423. PMID: 33115349