Epidemiological Study of Fingertip Injuries in a Tertiary Care Center in Kancheepuram District, India

Background and Aim: Although fingertip injuries are common, there is limited literature on its epidemiology. This study examines the clinical characteristics of fingertip injuries in adults treated at a tertiary medical hospital. The aim of the study is to investigate and examine the epidemiological variables impacting patients' fingertip injuries in a tertiary care hospital in Kancheepuram.

Methods: An epidemiological study of patients with fingertip injuries managed at a tertiary hospital in Kancheepuram over a period of twelve months (March 2020-March 2021). The patients’ profile as well as the clinical presentation, management options and the outcome of care of the patients were documented and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Fifty one fingertips patients were managed. The median age was 23.50 years, with 88% of male. 36 [70%] injuries involved accidents in their workplace. A total of 34 [66%] injuries occurred in the fingers of the right hand. The management offered included PSS (Primary Skin Suturing), V-Y flap, RHAF, Nail bed repair and K wire fixation. About 91.5 % of the patients reported a satisfactory outcome.

Conclusion: In the workplace, right-handed males between the ages of 18 and 25 are more prone to have fingertip injuries. While proper diagnosis and adequate response are critical for a positive result in fingertip injuries, a safer environment and workplace would assist to alleviate the burden.