What is distal phalanx of the thumb?

What is distal phalanx of the thumb?

The thumb distal phalanx is a short bone with a rounded tuft at the end that makes a joint with the proximal phalanx. The bulbous tuft at the end of the bone gives the thumb its rounded end. This bone supports the thumb nail.

Can a distal phalanx fracture heal on its own?

Often a distal phalanx fracture is a “tuft” fracture, which means that a small fragment or fragments of bone are chipped off the edge of the distal phalanx. These bone injuries do not require wiring or pinning, as they will heal by themselves.

How do I know if I broke my distal phalanges?

Stiff Fingers If you have a fingertip fracture, which is called a distal phalanx fracture can happen from and smashing injuries involving the fingernail. These symptoms include a bruising or swelling of the finger pad. Usually, there will also be purple-colored blood under the fingernail known as subungual hematoma.

How do you fix a distal phalanx fracture?

Fractures of the distal phalanx are typically treated nonoperatively. The most common fracture seen is a tuft fracture. Splinting in extension for two to three weeks is the typical nonoperative treatment. Displaced and angulated fractures need referral to hand surgery.

How do you treat a distal phalanx fracture?

Distal Phalanx Fractures Management consists mainly of treating any associated soft tissue or nailbed injury or tip avulsion. Place in a neutral hand splint (see point 9) and start oral antibiotics for any open fractures. Follow up is with GP for most injuries, but Hand Surgery team if nailbed repair required.

What do you do for a distal phalanx fracture?

Open fracture of the distal phalanx often necessitates referral to an orthopedic or hand subspecialist because digital nerve block, wound debridement, irrigation and soft tissue repair are required. Often, soft tissue repair will suffice to stabilize the fracture.

Will the tip of my thumb grow back?

Humans aren’t so lucky. If you cut off my arm, it won’t grow back. (Note: please don’t do that.) But back in the 1970s, scientists showed that children can sometimes regrow the tip of an amputated finger, as long as there’s a bit of nail left over and the wound isn’t stitched up.

Should I sleep with a thumb splint on?

Yes! The thumb brace can be worn while you sleep.

Can distal phalanx grow back?

However, it is known that humans and other mammals retain the ability to regenerate the distal phalanges of the digits after amputation.