A unique finger injury in a professional hockey player: a case report.

OBJECTIVE

To present an uncommon athletic soft tissue wound and its proper management.

BACKGROUND

Soft tissue wounds are common in athletic competition. However, the subcategory of puncture wounds due to impalement by foreign bodies is quite rare. Although initial observation of a puncture wound may show minimal injury and blood loss, one must be concerned about damage to underlying structures and risk of infection.

DIFFERENTIAL DIAGNOSIS

Fracture, tendon injury, neurovascular compromise, soft tissue injury.

TREATMENT

When dealing with an impaled foreign object, it is vital to stabilize the injured area and leave the object in place. Prompt evaluation and removal by a physician is necessary. Also, the risk of infection is significant after a puncture wound, and prophylactic antibiotics should be considered.

UNIQUENESS

Impalement by foreign objects is rare in sports, particularly hockey. Incorrect management of athletes with this injury could lead to additional morbidity.

CONCLUSIONS

Although puncture wounds and impalement by foreign objects are not frequently seen in athletes, proper recognition, treatment, and management are essential to avoid complications and loss of function.