Nailbed injuries with hallucal phalangeal fractures--evaluation and treatment

Abstract

Adequate assessment of crush injuries to the hallux is necessary before appropriate management can be initiated. When distal phalangeal fractures of the hallux are detected by routine radiography and subungual hematomas are present, open fractures of the hallux may be overlooked if the physician does not routinely avulse the nailplate. The authors review current modalities for the detection and evaluation of these injuries and present a protocol for treatment.