Snowblower Injuries to the Hand: Epidemiology,

Patterns of Injury, and Strategies for Prevention

Daniel Master and Alan Babigian, M.D.

University of Connecticut School of Medicine, Farmington CT and

Hartford Hospital, Hartford CT

Snowblower injuries to the hand are often devastating and largely preventable. A study of when and why these accidents occur would provide useful information that could be applied in strategies for prevention of future trauma. A three year study was undertaken of patients treated in the Hartford area with snowblower injuries to the hand. All patients were evaluated and treated by a single surgeon. Each patient participated in a survey which detailed the events surrounding their injuries. This data was analyzed, along with local weather conditions, patterns of injury, and patient treatment courses. Review of pertinent literature was also undertaken.

Clusters of injures occurred around characteristic weather patterns, and often in certain patient populations. Heavy, wet snow was an obvious risk factor. However, contrary to popular belief, operator inexperience was not a significant risk factor for injury. In fact, a large number of injuries occurred in patients who had many years of experience operating their snowblowers. Many patients were also highly educated. Alcohol or drug consumption was not a significant contributing factor, nor was operator fatigue.

Education of the public, particularly around the time of significant snowfall, may lead to a decrease in trauma. Modification of snowblower design would also lower the number and severity of injuries incurred. These snowblower injuries, which lead to temporary or often permanent impairment, can be prevented.

Published by the New England Hand Society 2005.