Emergency Medical Minute Episode 984: Fish Hooks
Nov 24, 2025
Megan Hurley, MD, an emergency physician specializing in clinical teaching, delves into the world of fish-hook injuries. She shares the importance of assessing injuries for proximity to vital structures and when to consult specialists. Hurley explains practical removal techniques, including the string-pull and push-through methods, emphasizing safety and minimizing complications. The discussion also covers needle-cover techniques for larger hooks and post-removal care considerations, providing valuable insights for both medical professionals and outdoor enthusiasts.
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Teen Injures Forearm While Saving Tackle Box
- Megan Hurley describes a young man who hooked himself with multiple fishhooks while stopping a tackle box from falling into a creek.
- Most hooks he removed himself but one larger double-barbed spoon moor remained deeply embedded in his forearm.
Check For Dangerous Locations First
- Assess location first and consult subspecialty if the hook is near vital structures like the eye or large vessels.
- Do not attempt ED removal when the hook involves the eye or lies near carotid, radial artery, peritoneum, testicle, or urethra.
Use String-Pull For Superficial Hooks
- Try the string-pull technique for superficial single-barbed hooks by looping strong string and a sudden axial jerk.
- Use this only when the body part can be firmly secured to prevent movement during the maneuver.