Abstract

Penetrating injuries to the hand and fingers are frequent in the emergency department, particularly among laborers and workers in industries such as textiles, carpentry, and construction. The management of foreign bodies in the hand remains a topic of debate. This case report discusses a 35 year-old female who presented with a metallic button embedded in her right thumb following an accidental injury while stitching. The patient was stabilized, treated with tetanus prophylaxis, pain management, and underwent an uneventful removal of the foreign body under local anesthesia in a minor operating theater. Studies indicate that hand and wrist injuries account for 10-30% of emergency visits, with complications ranging from pain and infection to functional impairment. Appropriate imaging, such as X-rays and ultrasound, is crucial for foreign body detection, especially when objects are radiolucent. Understanding hand anatomy is vital for successful and safe removal. Prompt identification and removal of foreign bodies in the hand are essential to avoid complications. Most visible foreign bodies can be managed safely in an emergency setting, with ultrasound being a preferred tool for detecting radiolucent objects due to its availability and cost-effectiveness.

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