ABSTRACT

Introduction Injuries o f the fingers are extremely common. They range from minor cuts and

abrasions to wounds causing serious damage to the soft tissue, nail beds, bones, tendons, or ligaments. Significant injuries may be present that are not immedi­ ately apparent. Signs and symptoms of infections, such as erythema, purulence, and fever, will often not develop for hours to days following the injury. If not treated properly, serious finger injuries can lead to permanent deformity and loss o f function. Carefrd treatment will allow for a faster and more complete recovery. This chapter discusses finger injuries by anatomical site. Injury to the fingertip, fingernail, nail bed, phalanx, interphalangeal joints, tendons, and ligaments will all be addressed.