Affiliation:
1. Department of Plastic Surgery , Galway University Hospital, Ireland
2. University of Galway , Ireland
Abstract
Abstract
Due to its boiling point of -196°C, liquid nitrogen is a cryogenic substance which is commonly used in many industries for its cooling properties. However, this extreme cooling capability means it also has the potential to inflict severe full-thickness burns. Despite its widespread use in the workplace, very little has been described in the literature regarding complex reconstruction of liquid nitrogen burns. We present a case that is unique, not only in its unusual mechanism of injury, but also in that it is the first described case of free tissue reconstruction of cryogenic burns.
Publisher
Oxford University Press (OUP)
Subject
Rehabilitation,Emergency Medicine,Surgery