Background: The fingertip is the portion of the digit distal to the insertion of the flexor and extensor tendons on the distal phalanx. The volar surface of the fingertips contains grooves and ridges, uniquely patterned for each individual, termed fingerprints. The digital arteries and nerves arborize or trifurcate near the distal interphalangeal joint.
Aim of the Work: Evaluation of the outcome of sensate and non-sensate tissues for fingertip reconstruction.
Patients and Methods: This study attempts to show the benefits of using different modalities for fingertip reconstruction in cases that presented in El Hussein and El Haram hospitals. Thirty-five cases of fingertip amputation were examined and managed using different techniques. In addition of managing these cases, we followed these cases over a 6 months period of time after first presentation and intervention to assess the outcome and any possible complications.
Results: In this study, according to the Allen's classification the majority (34.2%) of cases showed amputation level class II. Only 5 cases (14.2%) did not have bone exposed. The middle finger was the most injured in our study (34%). Seven (20%) cases showed postoperative infection. Eighteen (51.4%) cases got involved in the physical treatment/ occupational therapy. Ten (28%) cases had numbness over the injured finger. Only Eighteen (51.4%) cases completely survived.
Conclusion: Conservative wound management with dressings and a protective splint allows patients to avoid immobilization and donor site morbidity.