Fingernail and Toenail Injuries
Injuries to the fingernails, or toenails, are common. Most involve a crushing injury to the fingertip. This often results in the accumulation of blood under the nail (subungual hematoma). This condition can be painful, due to the development of pressure under the nail. Your doctor can successfully treat this by drilling or cauterizing a hole in the nail (using an anesthetic), which will release the accumulation of blood. Pain relief is substantial. The finger is placed in a gauze dressing to absorb the blood and keep the site clean. Small or painless subungual hematomas DO NOT require decompression (nail drilling).
Some injuries may involve a partially or completely torn away nail where injury to the underlying nail bed may have occurred. This can easily be restored with sutures (stitches), making it more likely that a new nail will grow back and retain a normal appearance. Bone x-rays may be necessary in hammer (crush) or saw (cut) injuries to detect the possibility of fracture to the underlying bone. Treatment will involve ice packs and elevation to reduce swelling and pain. Protective splinting for fractures, and antibiotics for contaminated wounds (fractures with lacerations) will be necessary. Acetaminophen, aspirin, or anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen) can be helpful in reducing pain. Stronger pain medications can be prescribed by your doctor.
Hope this article will provide you information about fingernail and toenail injuries.
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