Recovery from fingernail injury

[robyroxit]

I had a mishap at work in which my nail of my third finger was pulled out from under the cuticle area, but left attached to the nail bed. Emergency Doctor froze my finger, removed the nail surgically, stitched my fingertip back together, then reinserted the 'dead' nail (after thorough clean/disinfect) and stitched it in place to protect the nail bed and serve as a semi soft splint. I am on day 11 since my accident, and have been diligent in the care of my finger.

I realize it can take up to six months or so for a new nail to grow, and I am wondering when it is safe to switch from a full dressing bandage (petroleum jelly gauze, 1" stockinette, tied back around my wrist) to a more minor type of protection such as a band-aid or something similar and less bulky? It's been healing very well, and surprisingly painless considering the severity of the damage. (sheet metal shear, long story with a split second ending)

Also, will this dead nail be forced out by the new nail? Or will I eventually need to pull it out or have it pulled out by a professional?

[robyroxit]

Thanks for your reply. Yes, I've been to my own family doctor as well as back to emergency for evaluation. I was given the tetanus shot at the time of the original treatment and am on a course of antibiotics. The emergency staff was pretty surprised at the healing progress. Movement is full, (injury was between the tip and first knuckle, nipping a 1mm sliver of the tip of the bone) and maybe just slightly stiff, but that's due to slight swelling, which has gone down dramatically.

[Dr Santos]

Hi,

Continue with the present bandage you are using for protection of the affected finger. Though it has been healing well as you said, secondary infection may still occur. You need to go back for a follow-up with this doctor for evaluation of the wound. It is only then he will decide how well the wound has been healing and and when will the splint needs to be pullled out by him.

How is your finger's movement? Were you able to take antibiotics and had your anti-tetanus booster shot? Take care and keep us posted.