Abstract
Purpose of the study: Accidents caused by power-take-off shafts produce different types of injuries. The lesions can vary from simple skin abrasion to amputation or serious, sometimes fatal, limb damage. We present a series of injuries treated in our institution since 1997 in order to analyze the circumstances of these accidents and their pathophysiological mechanisms as well as the most appropriate treatment. We also analyzed the mechanism of the power-take-off shaft with a few fundamental aspects to better understand the potential health hazard.
Material and methods: Ten victims of power-take-off accidents were treated in our institution since 1997. All were men aged 26 to 66 years. In all cases but one, a cord caught on the turning shaft was the cause of the accident. Eight of the patients presented upper limb injuries of variable gravity.
Results: Outcome after treatment depended on several factors: the severity of the injury, the circumstances of the accident and the proximity to a health care center. In general, the sequelae were worse for serious injuries, producing permanent disability.
Discussion: The power-take-off transmits power from the tractor to agriculture machines via a turning shaft. Correct use requires several safety measures. Serious injury, disability or death can result from inadequate protective measures or inadequate knowledge about proper use.
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