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Fingertip Injuries: Evaluation and Treatment

Department of Orthopedics, University of Cincinnati College of Medicine.

The primary goal of treatment of an injury to the fingertip is a painless fingertip with durable and sensate skin. Knowledge of fingertip anatomy and the available techniques of treatment is essential. For injuries with soft-tissue loss and no exposed bone, healing by secondary intention or skin grafting is the method of choice. When bone is exposed and sufficient nail matrix remains to provide a stable and adherent nail plate, coverage with a local advancement flap should be considered. If the angle of amputation does not permit local flap coverage, a regional flap (cross-finger or thenar) may be indicated. If the amputation is more proximal or if the patient is not a candidate for a regional flap because of advanced age, osteoarthritis, or other systemic condition, shortening with primary closure is preferred. Composite reattachment of the amputated tip may be successful in young children. The outcome of nail-bed injuries is most dependent on the severity of injury to the germinal matrix.