Subungual haematomas: is simple trephining enough?

To determine the outcome of treating subungual haematomas by simple trephining, in terms of nail appearance and function, and to identify factors associated with a poor outcome.

Patients with subungual haematomas attending an accident and emergency department over a 12 month period were identified; 5-13 months after injury a telephone and postal survey of patient's assessment of their own outcome was made using a proforma. Outcome was graded according to published criteria.

123 patients with 127 subungual haematomas were identified and 74% were followed up; 85% achieved an "excellent" or "very good" result, with 67% reporting no residual abnormalities. A "poor" outcome occurred in only 2% owing to nail splitting. No correlation was found between adverse outcome and haematoma size, presence of fracture, or infection.

Treatment of subungual haematomas by simple trephining gives an acceptable result in the majority of patients and those with a poor outcome cannot be predicted at presentation. The findings suggest that only simple trephining for symptomatic relief is required for subungual haematomas and that aggressive surgical treatment is unnecessary.