Can a needle sized fluid injection injury lead to amputation?

Something everyone who works on or near hydraulic machines needs to be aware of are fluid injection injuries.

The root cause of fluid injection injuries are pin-hole leaks in high-pressure hose, which generates a needle like spray of high-velocity oil. Normally when technicians assess what needs to be repaired, there shouldn’t be any pressure left in the system, however if a valve or other hydraulic component malfunctions, residual high-pressure fluid in the lines can remain a hazard.

Skin penetration can occur up to four inches away from the fluid source, and at pressures as low as 100 psi. While the injury may appear needle-sized, the size of the entry wound is a poor indicator of the seriousness of the injury, and what looks like a simple puncture wound is in fact life threatening. The area around the injury typically turns red and swells within a couple of hours, followed by contiued throbbing and numbness. Injected hydraulic oils are highly toxic - so in addition to the physical wound, they literally poison you. If left untreated, the injury can lead to amputation and even death.

A study conducted by Snarski and Birkhahn in North America found that the average elapsed time between occurrence of injury and seeking medical attention is 9 hours. This is attributed to the apparent benign nature of initial injection, combined with a lack of awareness of the seriousness of this type of injury. Disturbingly, where 10 hours or more elapses between occurrence of injury and medical intervention, the amputation rate approaches 100%.

The most important things to remember is never touch a pressurised hose with your hand, and if you suspect an injection injury has occurred, seek emergency medical assistance right away.