Clenched fist injury complicated by septic arthritis and osteomyelitis treated with negative pressure wound therapy: One case report

We reported a 30 years old man who suffered a bite wound of the right hand in a fight. Two days after the injury, he was admitted in emergency because of stab wound above the head of the third metacarpal bone. He presented the swelling, redness, pain and fever. Primary revision confirmed only partial lesion of the extensor apparatus. During the following days, we recorded a deterioration of local findings and magnetic resonance imaging revealed osteomyelitis and septic arthritis of the third metacarpophalangeal joint. The wound was then revised several times using negative pressure wound therapy in combination with intravenous antibiotics. After resolution of clinical and laboratory findings, the wound was finally closed by delayed primary suture. Clenched fist injury is a medical emergency that requires immediate surgical revision. We treated clenched fist injury with the development of septic arthritis and osteomyelitis with negative pressure wound therapy and obtained good outcomes.