Felon: Difference between revisions
(Created page with "==Background== *Subcutaneous pyogenic infection of the pulp space compartments of the distal finger *Do not mistake for pulp erythema due to paronychia or herpetic whitlow *Infec...") |
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*Instruct pt to keep extremity elevated | *Instruct pt to keep extremity elevated | ||
*Abx indicated for felons associated w/ cellulitis | *Abx indicated for felons associated w/ cellulitis | ||
[[File:Felon.jpg]] | |||
==Source== | ==Source== |
Revision as of 21:05, 26 February 2012
Background
- Subcutaneous pyogenic infection of the pulp space compartments of the distal finger
- Do not mistake for pulp erythema due to paronychia or herpetic whitlow
- Infection typically begins w/ minor trauma to dermis overlying finger pad
- May spread to flexor tendon sheath, IP joint, or underlying periosteum
Clinical Features
- Red, tense, and markedly painful distal pulp space
Diagnosis
- Gram stain and culture (chronic infections may be caused by atypical organisms)
Treatment
- Incision and drainage (see image below)
- 11 blade is used to make incision on nonoppositional side of affected digit
- Start incision 5 mm distal to flexor DIP crease
- End incision 5mm proximal to nail plate border
- Bluntly dissect and explore wound until abscess is decompressed
- Pack w/ sterile gauze
- Instruct pt to keep extremity elevated
- Abx indicated for felons associated w/ cellulitis
Source
- Tintinalli