Broken finger needs pins?

[jward721]

I broke my finger and my friend, who is an x-ray tech, x-rayed it for me. I got the photos but all the dr's I called are booked until next week. I was wondering it my finger needed pins and/or if a trip to the ER is in order or if I can wait until next week. The finger was broken on the 26th so it's been 5 days already.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/jamiejustin/finger-1.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v644/jamiejustin/finger2.jpg

[Michael L Gross, MD]

While this fracture might not require surgery, it is likely it will.  Either way it should be reduced (placed in proper alignment) as soon as possible.  A significant portion of the joint surface is involved in the fracture, and proper treatment is necessary to reduce the chances of pain, reduced function, and future problems.

[jward721]

Thank you for the prompt response Dr. Gross, I appreciate it. I have had the finger in a splint since the accident, taking it off for a bit when I'm not active. The swelling just started to go down yesterday and it's becoming more painful, although tolerable. Minor emergency gave me two Rx's: Lortab and Darvocet, for burns also incurred on the same hand.

I'll keep an eye on it and keep my orthopedic appointment scheduled for next week.