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Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm

Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm: Fingertip Injury → Bone Exposed? → Defect Size → Secondary Intention.

Interactive Decision Tree

Mini Map

Algorithm Steps

  1. ▶
    Start

    Fingertip Injury

    1. ◆
      Decision

      Bone Exposed?

      1. ◆
        Decision

        Defect Size

        • Small (<1cm²)
        • Large (>1cm²)
        1. ■
          End

          Secondary Intention

          Excellent in children, acceptable in adults

        2. ■
          End

          Skin Graft (FTSG)

          For larger soft tissue defects

      2. ◆
        Decision

        Bone Coverage Options

        1. ■
          End

          V-Y Advancement Flap

          Volar defects, sensate coverage

        2. ■
          End

          Cross-Finger Flap

          Dorsal defects, two-stage

        3. ■
          End

          Replantation Consider

          Sharp amputation, thumb, child, multiple digits

        4. ■
          End

          Revision Amputation

          If coverage not possible, shorten bone

Guideline Source

ASPS Evidence-Based Practice: Fingertip Injuries

DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000007638View Guideline

Clinical Safety Information

Clinical Decision Support — Not a Substitute for Clinical Judgment

Individual patient factors may require deviation from these recommendations.

Known Limitations

  • Treatment depends on patient factors and occupation
  • Children heal remarkably well with secondary intention
  • Bone exposure changes management

Applicable Regions

USAUUKEU

UK: BSSH fingertip injury protocols

US: ASPS/ASSH guidelines

Version 1Next review: 2028-01-01

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm?

The Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm is a management clinical algorithm for Plastic Surgery. It provides a structured decision tree to guide clinical decision-making, based on ASPS Evidence-Based Practice: Fingertip Injuries.

What guideline is the Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm based on?

This algorithm is based on ASPS Evidence-Based Practice: Fingertip Injuries (DOI: 10.1097/PRS.0000000000007638).

What are the limitations of the Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm?

Known limitations include: Treatment depends on patient factors and occupation; Children heal remarkably well with secondary intention; Bone exposure changes management. Individual patient factors may require deviation from these recommendations.

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