Fingertip Injuries: An Update on Management

Donald H. Lee article. Abstract

Injuries to the fingertip are common. The goal of treatment is restoration of a painless, functional digit with protective sensation. The amount of soft-tissue loss, the integrity of the nail bed, and the age and physical demands of the patient should be considered when selecting a treatment method. Some new products are effective for management of injuries to the fingertip. The use of 2-octylcyanoacrylate for nail bed repair is faster than suture repair, with equivalent results reported. Dermal regeneration template is effective for coverage of digital injuries with exposed tendons or bones that lack peritenon or periosteum. Although fingertip replantation offers better functional results than does revision amputation, replantation is more technically demanding and requires longer recovery time. Complications associated with management of injuries to the fingertip include nail deformities, insensate digits, and painful neuromas.