Management of a Retained Rare Earth Magnetic Finger Mass Sustained from a Semiconductor Explosion Injury

Abstract

Case:We present a case of a 51-year-old man with a retained supercharged rare earth magnetic finger mass sustained from an explosion injury at a semiconductor processing facility. The patient underwent excision of the rare metal mass, subsequently maintaining digital function without mass recurrence.Conclusion:Common to the semiconductor industry, neodymium is a rare earth metal and powerful magnet. Particulates are highly combustible, representing a potential explosive biohazard. To date, its toxicity and bioreactivity within the hand have not been thoroughly investigated. This is the first report of the successful surgical treatment of a retained rare earth neodymium magnetic hand mass.