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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
Pseudofracture: An Acute Peripheral Tissue Trauma Model
Published on: April 18, 2011
A unique finger injury in a professional hockey player: a case report
1Chicago Blackhawks Hockey Club, Chicago, IL.
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.