Incision and drainage of felon and paronychia
Redness, swelling, and pain in a finger or around the nail can worsen quickly. If a collection of pus forms in the tissues, local treatment alone may not be sufficient. In such cases, the doctor assesses the condition of the finger and, when indicated, performs an incision and drainage of the infected area. Felon and paronychia may develop after minor skin damage, a manicure, a hangnail, an injury, or other situations in which an infection enters the tissues of the finger. The treatment approach depends on the location and extent of the inflammation.
When may incision and drainage of a felon or paronychia be needed?
- significant or increasing pain in the finger
- redness and swelling around the nail
- throbbing pain
- a visible collection of pus
- a painful abscess near the nail or elsewhere on the finger
- increasing pain when touching or moving the finger
- spreading redness or swelling
- no improvement or worsening of symptoms
FAQ
Why does not every swollen finger require an incision?
Pain, redness, or swelling around the nail can have different causes. In the early stages of inflammation, an abscess may not yet have formed, so the need for an incision can only be determined after an examination.
In addition, not every change affecting the finger is caused by a bacterial infection. Some conditions may resemble a felon or paronychia but require a completely different approach. For this reason, you should not try to puncture, cut, or squeeze the affected area yourself.
If changes in the skin or nail require further assessment, the surgeon may recommend a dermatologist consultation. If the inflammation is associated with a problem involving the nail plate or an ingrown toenail or fingernail, further management will also be determined after an examination.
Booking a consultation and procedure
If your finger is swollen, painful, red, or you have noticed pus around the nail, call Doctor Sam at +380 97 312 92 91. Our administrator will clarify your situation and help book a surgeon consultation.
After the examination, the doctor will assess the condition of the tissues and determine whether incision and drainage is necessary or whether another treatment approach is more appropriate in your situation.
Doctor Sam Medical Centre is located at Respublika Park Shopping Mall, 1 Kiltseva Road, Kyiv, near Teremky Metro Station.
