thenar space (infection)
Last reviewed 01/2018
Infection of the thenar space of the hand is rare. It usually arises from:
- penetrating injury
- extension of midpalmar space infection
- extension of flexor tendon sheath infection
- extension of radial bursa infection
Clinically, there is a swollen and painful thenar eminence. The thumb may be pushed into abduction.
Depending on the site of infection, the space needs incision via one of the following routes:
- volar transverse incision
- thenar crease incision
- dorsal incision
- a combination
The wound is irrigated, packed and is given a delayed closure. Intravenous antibiotics are mandatory.