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Plastic SurgeryManagement
Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm
Fingertip Injury Management Algorithm: Fingertip Injury → Bone Exposed? → Defect Size → Secondary Intention.
Pathway Overview
10 steps
Algorithm Steps
10 total
01Start 02Decision Bone Exposed?
03Decision Defect Size
- Small (<1cm²)
- Large (>1cm²)
04End Secondary Intention
Excellent in children, acceptable in adults
05End Skin Graft (FTSG)
For larger soft tissue defects
06Decision Bone Coverage Options
07End V-Y Advancement Flap
Volar defects, sensate coverage
08End Cross-Finger Flap
Dorsal defects, two-stage
09End Replantation Consider
Sharp amputation, thumb, child, multiple digits
10End Revision Amputation
If coverage not possible, shorten bone
Guideline Source
ASPS Evidence-Based Practice: Fingertip Injuries
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
Next steps
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Related Resources
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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