What to expect from nail surgery for a bruised nail

A subungual haematoma is blood trapped beneath a nail after an injury. The clinician checks the nail, skin, sensation, circulation, and movement, and considers whether the fingertip or toe may also be injured. If the nail is stable and discomfort is manageable, surgery may not be needed. When pressure, a split nail, or nail-bed damage requires treatment, the area can be numbed before the nail is lifted, removed, or repaired as appropriate.

Follow the dressing instructions closely and keep the treated area clean. Elevate the hand or foot at first if swelling is present, wear roomy footwear for a toe injury, and avoid impacts until the clinician says normal activity is suitable. Do not pierce or drain the nail yourself. The dark mark may move outward as the nail grows, while tenderness settles gradually.

Seek prompt care for uncontrolled bleeding, escalating pain, loss of feeling, difficulty moving the digit, or a cold, pale, or blue fingertip or toe. Redness that spreads, worsening swelling, pus, or fever can indicate infection and needs medical review.

Ask whether the nail bed or bone needs assessment, whether the nail will stay in place, how to protect the injury at home, and when sport, work, or footwear can resume.