Treatment of Distal Phalanx Fracture Using Figure-of-Eight Suturing of the Nail

• Published in: Curēus (Palo Alto, CA) CA), 2022-12, Vol.14 (12), p.e32438
• Main Authors: Mizanur, S K, Selvin, Bibin, Patel, Shivam, Phalak, Mukesh
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Case reports; Fractures; Hematoma; Inhibitor drugs; Injuries; Orthopedics; Patients; Plastic Surgery; Sutures; Trauma
• ISSN: 2168-8184; 2168-8184
• DOI: 10.7759/cureus.32438

Nail bed avulsion injuries associated with a distal phalanx fracture are very common injuries occurring in industrial workers dealing with heavy machines. Often patients come with an open wound that needs a thorough wash and reduction of fracture with manipulation and traction along with suturing of the nail bed. The study was conducted on 20 patients with nail bed avulsion injuries associated with distal phalanx fracture. Patients were treated by a vertical figure-of-eight suturing of the nail plate with the nail bed after a reduction of the distal phalanx fracture. Patients were followed up periodically at a weekly interval for up to three months. This approach maintains excellent contact between the nail plate and matrix, limiting additional displacement of the nail plate. The vertical figure-of-eight suturing technique takes sutures and secures the nail by using the nail plate and the nail bed. It's simple, dependable, and easily taught to surgeons of any specialty. This procedure may be used even if the eponychium is not intact. It's a useful approach for anybody dealing with a nail bed avulsion injury that includes or excludes distal phalanx damage. This method of repair is straightforward, secure, and reproducible. It does not necessitate either the formal repair of damaged nail bed structures or the removal of the nail bed. This procedure can be performed in an outpatient setting with a local ring block, and the patient can return home the same day. Additionally, the patient can regain finger function within three months.