A Pictorial Essay on Various Presentation, Evaluation and Management of Fingertip Injuries

Abstract

Fingertip injuries are the most common injuries of the hand. The disproportionately large and intricate cortical representation emphasizes the importance of restoration of function to as normal as possible. The goals of treatment in fingertip injuries are the preservation of length, durable and sensate coverage, and minimal donor site morbidity with the best functional and cosmetic outcome. Treatment depends upon the mechanism of injury, type of amputation, geometry and size of the defect along with the involvement of bone and nail bed. Different reconstructive techniques are indicated for the management of these injuries, ranging from primary closure to split skin grafting to the use of various flaps like cross finger flap, thenar flaps, FDMA flaps, volar V-Y advancement flaps. Improper treatment of fingertip injuries may result in stiffness, loss of function, and poor prognosis.