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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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Do Stitches On A Finger Cause Knuckle Swelling?

I cut my index finger 7 days ago and had 12 stiches placed. They run on the outside of the finger but have noticed my knuckle is swollen. No redness or puss, just a little swollen. My finger is in a splint as the doctor requested as he stated they will heal quicker if my finger stays straight. Anything to be worried about? The stiches will come out on the 12th day. Thanks
Fri, 6 Jun 2014
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Anesthesiologist,  's  Response
Your question is somewhat difficult to answer without first knowing a bit more. Given there is no puss or redness, the chance of infection is quite low.
However it is important how you got your cut:

If you were cut by a relatively clean knife (like in the kitchen) then the chance of infection is pretty low. In this case the swelling is likely due to the normal healing process. Any healing causes inflammation that starts to peak around day 10-12 (thats why you get your stitiches out then)

If yougot stitched because you were cut by a dirty instrument, any metal outside, or especially any sort of bite, then I would suggest having a professional evaluate your finger.
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Do Stitches On A Finger Cause Knuckle Swelling?

Your question is somewhat difficult to answer without first knowing a bit more. Given there is no puss or redness, the chance of infection is quite low. However it is important how you got your cut: If you were cut by a relatively clean knife (like in the kitchen) then the chance of infection is pretty low. In this case the swelling is likely due to the normal healing process. Any healing causes inflammation that starts to peak around day 10-12 (thats why you get your stitiches out then) If yougot stitched because you were cut by a dirty instrument, any metal outside, or especially any sort of bite, then I would suggest having a professional evaluate your finger.