Damage to the Skin in Mallet Finger Injuries
While most mallet finger injuries do not result in broken skin or nails, in some cases, more extensive damage can occur. Although it may appear that the skin remains intact, there are instances where it is actually punctured. In more severe cases, the bone or joint can be affected. When the skin is open, there is a higher risk of infection for the patient. To assess the extent of the damage, doctors often rely on x-ray imaging.
Mallet finger injuries in children
When children suffer from mallet finger injuries, there are additional concerns due to the potential impact on their future growth. It is crucial for doctors to assess whether the injury has caused damage to the nail bed and growth plate. A visual examination of the mallet finger provides valuable insights to an experienced doctor. However, an x-ray is typically requested to determine the extent of the injury and decide whether non-surgical bone realignment is adequate or if a minor operation is necessary.