J Wound Manag Res.  2019 Sep;15(2):117-120. 10.22467/jwmr.2019.00724.

Mallet Deformity of Distal Phalanx of Index Finger after Snake Bite

• Kang HY
• Park ES
• Nam SM

• KMID: 2465855
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.22467/jwmr.2019.00724

Abstract

Snakebites, though uncommon, are a potentially serious cause of disability or death. Snakebites present as puncture wounds or scratches. Local symptoms may include pain, edema, or ecchymosis that may progress to skin necrosis or compartment syndrome. This study explores the case of a 48-year-old male patient bitten by a snake on the distal dorsum of his left index finger. At first examination, the injured finger was markedly swollen. The acute treatment undertaken at the local hospital was to remove the blood blister. One month later, the patient visited Soonchunhyang University Bucheon Hospital and presented with necrotic changes in the skin; an X-ray of the hand demonstrated mallet deformity. His tendinous mallet finger was treated using a modification of the internal suture technique. Photographic images were taken before and after the operation. After the operation, a complete treatment of the skin defect and mallet finger lesion was achieved. The patient tolerated the treatment well with minimal pain.

Keyword

Snake bite; Hand deformities, acquired; Snake bites

MeSH Terms

Blister
Compartment Syndromes
Congenital Abnormalities*
Ecchymosis
Edema
Fingers*
Gyeonggi-do
Hand
Hand Deformities, Acquired
Humans
Male
Middle Aged
Necrosis
Punctures
Skin
Snake Bites*
Snakes*
Suture Techniques
Wounds and Injuries