No such thing as "just" a nail bed injury

Abstract

Nail bed injuries are the commonest pediatric hand injuries presenting to the emergency department. If managed correctly, the patient recovers quickly and complications are rare. However, failure to appreciate the complex anatomy of the perionychium and the importance of exploration, washout, and repair can result in devastating complications. These injuries are often underestimated and, consequently, delegated to the most junior and inexperienced staff. The case of a 6-year-old boy with a flexor sheath infection and devitalized fingertip 1 week after injury is presented. Emphasis is placed on the soft tissue and underlying bony injury that was overlooked at initial presentation, and how this led to serious infection requiring amputation. Thorough assessment of these common injuries and a high index of suspicion are essential.