Fingertip Injuries Treated with Semi-occlusive Dressings

Main Article Content

Mariana Gibertti

Abstract

Objective: To demonstrate that semi-occlusive dressings achieve reconstruction of the distal phalanx with no residual pain, no additional shortening, and a satisfactory aesthetic appearance.
Materials and Methods: 47 fingers with distal injuries were assessed and classified into three groups: a) with skin and subcutaneous cellular tissue involvement, b) with an additional nail injury,and c) with an additional open bone injury. All were covered with a semi-occlusive bandage which was replaced weekly until the wound healed, which took around four weeks.
Results: 41 of the 47 treated fingers displayed excellent functional and aesthetic outcomes, with complete recovery of distal sensibility; nevertheless, 6 patients (14%) required additional surgery, all of whom had work conflicts. The average time for complete healing was 45.7 days, with three dressing replacements required to complete treatment.
Conclusion: Fingertip injuries, even with the phalanx exposed, can be satisfactorily treated with semi-occlusive dressings. Reconstruction is achieved without residual pain, without additional shortening, with good strength and sensitivity, and with an excellent aesthetic appearance of the phalanx. It is also an economical and simple to replicate method.

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Article Details

How to Cite
Gibertti, M. (2024). Fingertip Injuries Treated with Semi-occlusive Dressings. Revista De La Asociación Argentina De Ortopedia Y Traumatología, 89(3), 216-225. https://doi.org/10.15417/issn.1852-7434.2024.89.3.1741
Section
Clinical Research
Author Biography

Mariana Gibertti, EPSOM Medicina Laboral, Oberá, Misiones, Argentina

EPSOM Medicina Laboral, Oberá, Misiones, Argentina

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