silicate-cement and Knee-Injuries

A 51-year-old man developed burn wounds on both knees after finishing a cement floor. Cement burns are caused by wet cement, which is highly alkaline Initial treatment consists of lavage. Further management can be conservative but in full thickness injuries excision and grafting should be considered.

Topics: Burns, Chemical; Humans; Knee Injuries; Male; Middle Aged; Occlusive Dressings; Silicate Cement; Skin Transplantation; Wound Healing

Cement is a rare cause of full-thickness burns. We have examined the aetiology, frequency and severity of these burns, and assessed public awareness of the potential of cement as a caustic agent. Of patients, 95 per cent were unaware of the potential of cement to cause burns, and none had seen precautionary warnings on cement bags or delivery dockets. Factors important in burn production appear to be alkalinity, duration of contact and the abrasive nature of the cement particles. It is concluded that doctors, especially casualty officers, should know of the potential of progressive full-thickness burns from wet cement. General public awareness should be increased. The cement manufacturers were asked to comment on the content of this paper.

Topics: Adult; Burns, Chemical; Humans; Hydrogen-Ion Concentration; Knee Injuries; Leg Injuries; Male; Product Labeling; Safety; Seasons; Silicate Cement; Time Factors