Description
Lacerations of the toe can be simple involving only the skin or complex with injury to tendons, nerves and/or blood vessels. With tendon lacerations there is weakness of the toe, and with nerve damage, numbness is experienced beyond the laceration.
Symptoms
Laceration, inability to flex or extend the toe, numbness.
Tests
Common tests used for diagnosis and treatment
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Testing of the tendons and nerves will be done.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Workup:
A history and physical exam will be performed. Testing of the tendons and nerves will be done.
Specialists:
Internal Medicine, Orthopedic Surgery, Family Practice, Podiatry, Foot and Ankle Surgery
Treatment
Simple lacerations require only closure of the skin. More complex lacerations may require repair of tendons, or nerves. Toe lacerations should be repaired within 12 hours to prevent infection. While waiting for treatment the laceration can be cleaned with running water and covered with gauze or a clean cloth. Pressure on the wound can be applied to stop bleeding. If the bleeding is profuse get medical help. A tetanus shot may be needed.