Abstract

We studied the long-term sequelae of hand injuries as a result of playing volleyball. In a retrospective study, 2267 patients with injuries of the hand who were seen over a 5-year period at our Trauma Department, were investigated. Females accounted for 66 of all injuries. The mean age was 26 years, with a peak in the age group of 15 to 29 years. Sprains and strains were observed most frequently (39), followed by fractures (25) and contusions (16). The fingers were involved in 44 of the cases. Most injuries of the hand occurred in recreational players. Recreational players had more left-sided injuries, whereas competition players had more right-sided injuries (P < 0.005), suggesting that lack of skill is an important determinant. Left-handedness was associtated with an increased risk of hand injury in recreational players. One third of the volleyball players did not go to work or school for a median of 4 weeks as a result of the injury. In a survey after a mean period of 5 years, a high percenta of patients had complaints: 28 cited stiff and crooked fingers with limitations and tenderness in the movements as main inconveniences. We consider this incidence disturbingly high, regarding the seemingly innocent nature of these injuries. Verf.-Referat