Clinical evaluation of occlusive dressing in fingertip reconstruction

Abstract

Purpose: Evaluation of the clinical outcomes of occlusive dressings after fingertip amputations.

Methods: We conducted a prospective single-center clinical research involving 101 patients representing 112 fingertip amputations who were treated with occlusive dressings from October 2017 to October 2022. Patients were evaluated with the QuickDASH test scores, in relation to their symptoms as to their ability to perform certain activities, the cold intolerance and a two-point discrimination Weber test, allowing the assessment of the innervation of skin area at different time points (at 1, 8, 12 weeks, and at 1 year). The average wound closure, the number of dressings, the finger’s trophicity and the adverse effects of the treatment were also analyzed. Data analysis was then conducted by an independent surgeon.

Result: The average wound closure time for the 112 fingertip amputations treated with occlusive dressing was 2.6 weeks (18 days). Aesthetic outcomes were excellent in 69,6% and good in 30.4%. The Weber test showed a two-point discrimination of 3.3mm on the injured fingertip and 2.7mm on the contralateral, healthy side. The rate of complication was estimated at 11%. Amputation zone 3 (p<0.001) and number of cigarettes smoked per day (p=0.007) were identified is independent factors of complications.

Conclusion: Occlusive dressing treatment is a viable option for fingertip amputation in zones 1, 2 and even 3 offering clinically favorable outcomes with minimal inconvenience.