A technical trick for extracting a stingray spine from hand: a case report

Abstract

Injuries from stingray fish are among the most common fish stings, and their frequency is increasing with the increase in global tourism. It most commonly causes injuries to the extremities and causes morbidity if not treated appropriately. Less commonly, life-threatening injuries can be observed due to injuries in the thorax and abdomen and damage to large vessels and vital organs. In addition to severe pain, tissue necrosis, and secondary infection after injury, systemic symptoms may occur. Since these injuries can occur in both fresh and salt water, it is possible to encounter such a case at any time. Flat spines are sharp, with backward barbs or serrations that make them difficult to extract once they penetrate tissue. After first aid, surgical extraction of the stingray spine with minimal damage is essential in addition to local and systemic treatments. In the literature, there are studies on envenomation and other systemic findings after stingray spine injuries, but few publications are available on the stingray spine extracted technique after injury. This case report presents a new and helpful technique for stingray spine extraction.

Venomous Bites, Stings and Poisoning by European Vertebrates as an Overlooked and Emerging Medical Problem: Recognition, Clinical Aspects and Therapeutic Management

“…The wound should be evaluated using standard procedures. Surgical removal of foreign bodies (e.g., stinger barbs) might be needed in order to reduce the risk of infections and necrosis [ 136 , 137 ]. Tetanus status should be evaluated, and tetanus immunizations updated if necessary.…”