The safety of pumpkin carving tools

Background. Even with optimal treatment, injuries from pumpkin carving accidents may leave people with compromised hand function. Pumpkin carving tools may reduce the incidence and/or magnitude of these injuries. However, evidence that they are safer is required before these knives can be recommended. Methods. Two pumpkin carving knives were compared to a serrated and a plain kitchen knife. The forces required to cut and pierce a pumpkin were determined and then applied by a servo-hydraulic machine to each knife placed against cadaver hands in a manner designed to either lacerate Zone 2 of the finger (six tests for each knife) or to puncture the hand. Inspection and dissection determined the extent of injury. Results. The pumpkin knives produced some injuries, however, they were fewer and less severe than those caused by the kitchen knives. Conclusions. Tools designed specifically for pumpkin carving may indeed be safer. Use of these products, and increased overall awareness of the risks of pumpkin carving in general, which clinicians could help promote, might reduce the frequency and severity of pumpkin carving injuries.