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]]
[[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)
      1. 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

Felon.jpg

Source

  • Tintinalli