Awkward Splinter!

Hi i was clearing the garden yesterday and got a small splinter just next to my index finger nuckle. i removed it immidiatly which was really easy as it was sticking out and easy to twease. once out i noticed its left a really small splinter there which is too deep to remove. any ideas on what i can do to draw it up to the surface?

[Bhupinder Kaur, MD]

Hello,
Since the splinter is deep, it is advisable to consult a physician to remove it because removing it on your own may cause it embed further and manipulation with a pin may cause infection. Very deep splinters may require the physician to make an incision with a scalpel in order to remove the splinter. The doctor, however, numbs the area first.

It is very difficult to precisely confirm a diagnosis without examination and investigations and the answer is based on the medical information provided. For exact diagnosis, you are requested to consult your doctor. I sincerely hope that helps. Take care and please do keep me posted on how you are doing.