Answer:
A felon is a subcutaneous abscess of the distal pulp of a finger or thumb. The multiple vertical fibrous septa divide the pulp into several small compartments. There is often but not always a penetrating injury preceding a felon. The expanding abscess breaks down the septa and can extend toward the phalanx and produce osteitis or osteomyelitis. Surgical drainage is indicated when there is fluctuance in the pulp. The basic tenets are: 1) to avoid injury to the digital nerve and vessels, 2) use an incision that will not leave a disabling scar, 3) keep exploration distal enough so that the flexor tendon sheath is not violated and a tenosynovitis is not produced iatrogenically, 4) produce adequate drainage. There are many incisions that can be used: Fish-Mouth, J or Hockey Stick, Through-and-Through drainage, volar, unilateral longitudinal incision.