To evaluate the serious effects of a paint gun injury and to determine the proper treatment.

The authors reviewed 30 cases of paint gun injuries of the hand that were treated from March, 1990 to September, 2000. We extended the original wound and removed the paint as soon as possible. The wound was left open, and debridementrepeated and delayed wound closure performed. The authors evaluated the results according to the Strickland evaluation method, and analysedthe results with respect to treatment delay and extent of injury.

Delayed treatment, invasion of the paint along the neurovascular bundle and extensive injury resulted in a poor outcome. Amputationwas inevitable in 4 cases in which treatment had been delayed or when blood vessels had been invaded by the paint.

Paint gun injury should be considered an emergency requiring immediate debridement. The surgeon should warn the patient that even after proper treatment, poor outcome can result.