Characteristics of fingertip injuries and proposal of a treatment algorithm from a hand surgery referral center in Mexico City.

Background: Fingertips are the most commonly injured anatomical structures in the upper extremity. The aim of this work is to present our experience in the management of fingertip injuries.

Methods: All patients with fingertip injuries managed by Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Division of Hospital General “Dr Manuel Gea Gonzalez” in Mexico from July 2010 to June 2015 were included; their demographic characteristics were described, as well as patterns of injury and management.

Results: A total of 1,265 patients were included in the study, 75% were males. The mean age of presentation was 20.5 ± 16.46 years; the age group most commonly affected was younger than 15 years (46.7%). Right and left-sided injuries were almost equally prevalent (51 vs. 49%). The most commonly injured fingers were the third (27.2%), and second (25.8%). Eighty-seven percent of the patients presented with single-digit injuries. Fingertip amputations were the most common type of injury with 620 cases (49%), followed by simple fingertip lacerations (574 cases, 45%), and nail bed injuries in 71 cases (5.6%). Surgical management was necessary in 95.8% of the cases.

Conclusions: Fingertip injuries remain the most common reason for consultation in hand emergencies. A structured approach for their treatment is necessary to obtain the best clinical outcomes.