Fingertip Injuries in Children

50 percent of fingertip injuries in children are due to door crush injuries. So, Today, let us discuss on this door crush injuries in children. These injuries often occur when the fingers get caught in the closing doors. It can vary in severity, from minor cuts to more serious crush injuries.

Door crush injuries can be particularly dangerous. The force of a closing door can cause significant damage to the fingertip, including fractures, lacerations, and even traumatic amputations.”

Prevention is key. Here are some tips to help keep your child safe:

  – Use door stoppers or door guards to prevent doors from closing completely.

  – Teach children to keep their hands away from door hinges and frames when closing doors.

  – Supervise children especially when they are around doors.

When a child sustains a fingertip injury, there are several surgical options available to restore function and appearance.

Let’s explore the options for fingertip injuries in children

1. Conservative Management:

For minor injuries cleaning the wound, applying some antibiotic ointment, and dressing will promote healing.

2. Nail bed Repair:

When a fingertip injury involves damage to the nail bed, repair of the nail bed has to be done. This will allow the nail to grow back properly.

3. Flap Cover:

In more extensive fingertip injuries where tissue is lost, flap surgery may be needed. This involves taking tissue from the same finger or the adjacent finger.

4. Re-plantation:

When finger is completely cut, re-plantation surgery may be considered. This intricate procedure involves reattaching the amputated fingertip, including bones, tendons, blood vessels, and nerves. This requires specialized surgical expertise and careful postoperative care.

Each fingertip injury is unique, and the appropriate treatment depends on factors such as the extent of the injury, tissue involvement, and the child’s overall health.