RT Book, Section A1 Ellison, E. Christopher A1 Zollinger, Robert M. SR Print(0) ID 1127275180 T1 INCISION AND DRAINAGE OF INFECTIONS OF THE HAND T2 Zollinger's Atlas of Surgical Operations, 10e YR 2016 FD 2016 PB McGraw-Hill Education PP New York, NY SN 978-0-07-179755-9 LK accesssurgery.mhmedical.com/content.aspx?aid=1127275180 RD 2024/03/28 AB Although definitive indications for incision and drainage of infections of the hand vary with the location, duration, extent, and severity of the infection, most localized infections warrant incision and drainage or operative debridement. Particular attention must be paid to patients with immunocompromised conditions that might mask an adequate inflammatory response and delay diagnosis and treatment. Most infections arising on the volar surface of the hand produce maximal swelling on the dorsum; however, dorsal drainage is used only when suppuration presents on the dorsum. If necrotizing fasciitis is suspected, either streptococcal or polymicrobial, emergent and aggressive operative debridement is warranted.