An amputated finger is a serious injury requiring immediate and correct action. Prompt responses are important for preserving the severed digit and increasing the chances of successful reattachment. This guide outlines the immediate steps to take in such an emergency.
Immediate Care for the Injury
The first priority is to control bleeding from the stump. Reassure the injured individual to help them remain calm. Elevate the injured hand above heart level to reduce blood flow.
Apply steady, direct pressure to the wound with a clean cloth or sterile dressing. If blood soaks through, add another covering without removing the first. Even if bleeding seems minimal due to vessel constriction, continuous pressure is important. After controlling the bleeding, gently clean the wound with clean water or saline solution to remove dirt or debris.
Handling the Severed Digit
Proper preservation of the amputated finger is crucial for successful reattachment. If the severed digit is dirty, gently rinse it with clean water or saline solution; avoid scrubbing. Once rinsed, wrap the finger in a clean, moist cloth or sterile gauze.
Place the wrapped digit into a watertight plastic bag to prevent direct contact with water. Then, place this bag into a larger container or another plastic bag filled with ice water. Avoid placing the amputated finger directly on ice, as this can cause frostbite and tissue damage, potentially making reattachment impossible. Cooling the part preserves the tissue and extends the time window for potential reattachment.
Emergency Medical Attention
Once the injured person is stabilized and the digit preserved, seek professional medical help without delay. Immediately call emergency services, such as 911, for rapid transport. The injured person and the preserved finger should be transported together to the nearest appropriate medical facility.
Ideally, the facility should have specialized microsurgery capabilities, often needed for finger reattachment. Prompt medical attention increases the chances of a successful reattachment outcome. Rapid transport minimizes “ischemia time,” the period the severed tissue is without blood flow.
Hospital Treatment and Next Steps
Upon arrival at the hospital, medical professionals will assess both the injured hand and the condition of the amputated finger. This assessment determines if replantation, the surgical reattachment of the digit, is a suitable option. If reattachment is possible, surgeons will perform microsurgery, a technique involving the use of operating microscopes and fine instruments to reconnect tiny blood vessels, nerves, bones, and tendons.
This intricate procedure aims to restore blood flow, sensation, and movement to the reattached finger. After surgery, the reattached finger will be closely monitored for signs of proper circulation and healing. Recovery involves a period of immobilization, medication to prevent infection and improve blood flow, and a comprehensive rehabilitation program, including physical therapy, to regain function.