AUTOMOTIVE GREASE - TRAUMA,
Abstract
A study was made to experimentally seek improved means for the removal of automotive grease from penetrating wounds. Automotive grease is composed predominantly of mineral oil, hydrogenated castor wax and wool fat. Grease can best be detected from viable body fat by means of an ultraviolet, Wood's lamp. Of 29 solvents and detergents tested anhydrous ether was found to be an equally adequate solvent for films of grease. The mineral oil is deposited as an inert foreign substance with fibrous incasement without digestion by macrophages. The site of deposition of the grease increases in size with the development of scar tissue. Debridement by mechanical removal of the bulk of the grease with the aid of the Wood's lamp is primary. Lesser particles of grease may be removed with ether, septisol, phisohex, and saline. Secondary closure of the wound is preferable to permit drainage.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 17, 1963
- Accession Number
- AD0806462
Entities
People
- R. M. Nomura
Organizations
- United States Army Medical Research Laboratory