Infection of the hand is a common and importment clinical problem. thus a therapeutic challenge has been continued for rapid resolution by appropriate antibiotics and surgical treatment as well as the maintenance of hand function. It is difficult to define the natural time and appropraite treatment modalites for resolution of all clinical types of infections of the hand. But when its infection has not been appropriately treated it is progressed into a osteomyelitis of the hand. As the result it causes a severe limitation of the function and deformity in the hand. We analysed 20 cases which were diagnosed to the osteomyelitis of the hand and managed surgically from March 1986 to May 1991. The results were as follows: 1. The osteomyelitis of the hand were developed frequently among child, old age, adolescent. 2. The thumb and index finger were frequently involved, and the distal phalanx was most commonly infected, and the right hand was more affected. 3. Among injuries of the hand, puncture was the most frequent but laceration, abrasion, and bite were equally contributed. 4. Most commonly cultured organism was Staphylococcus, but no organism was grown at eight cases, including 2 cases of tuberculosis. 5. All cases were managed surgically, mainly debridement and curettage. 6. Complication included chronic pain, stiffness, contracture, and amputation. On the last follow-up, the function of the hand was excellent in 2 cases, good 6, fair 8, and poor 4.