Fingertip injuries are considered as common hand injuries that can occur in both children and adults.
What are the possible causes?
Fingertip injuries have various causes that you should be familiar with. The fingers might be crushed, accidentally close in the door, struck by a hammer or other tools or a heavy object dropped on the finger. It can also be caused by a cut from a knife, power tool or sharp objects.
The injury can also damage the skin, bone, tendons, nail bed and the pulp or padded area of the fingertip. There is also damage to the nerve endings in the fingertips.
Management
The doctor will ask how the injury occurred and check for good blood supply and ensure that the individual can still bend and straighten the finger. An X-ray might be requested to check if the bone is damaged.
The treatment for fingertip injuries depends on the severity and some of the treatment options include the following:
- Dressings
- Splints
- Surgery
- Amputation
For a severe crushing injury of the fingertip, it is treated with a simple dressing if the skin is only removed or there is minimal bone exposed at the fingertip. If the injury is more serious, surgery is needed.
For a broken finger bone, it is managed using a splint or temporary metal pins to secure the bone fragments in the right position. If the damage is extensive, amputation might be required.
An injured nail bed can cause the buildup of blood beneath the nail. This requires drainage by creating a hole in the nail. If the nail bed is significantly damaged, a splint might be placed or even surgery.
Recovery
The affected fingertip might be sensitive for several months. Oftentimes, there is a limited feeling in the fingertip. The quality and texture of the skin might be different as well as the finger. A doctor must be consulted so that the suitable treatment can be started.
Quick Note / Disclaimer
The material posted on this page on fingertip injuries is for learning and educational purposes only. To learn to recognize and manage tendon, muscle and joint injuries including fingertip injuries, register for a first aid and CPR course with Toronto First Aid.