A Review of Amputation of 106 Hand Digits

Abstract

Background: Finger amputation is an uncommon injury. Fingers and thumbs sometimes are amputated either due to severe crushing or as a result of gangrene or malignant lesions. A review of finger amputation in our environment is rare.
Objective: This paper sets to review amputation of the hand digits of the upper limbs with a view to finding the indications and suggest methods of preventing this disabling injury.
Methodology: A retrospective review of digits amputated at the National Orthopaedic Hospital Enugu, Nigeria between January 1987 and December 2003 is carried out in this study. Information was obtained from patients\' case notes and operation registers and includes age, sex, hand dominance, aetiology, involved digit(s) and management.
Results: A total of 106 hand digits were amputated. The reasons for amputation were for causes other than congenital deformities. A male preponderance with a ratio of 4.3:1 was noticed. Most 65(94.2%) of the patients were right handed and the average age was 28.7 years. Industrial accidents constitute the highest reason for amputation in 42.4% of all the digits amputated. Conclusion: With improved facilities and awareness of the people and therefore early presentation to the hospital, many of the hand digits would be salvaged. We also suggest education of the people and training on the use of both domestic and industrial machines to reduce the injuries commonly sustained while operating machines.

Keywords: Hand, digit, finger, thumb, amputation

Nigerian Journal of Orthopaedics and Trauma Vol. 7 (1) 2008 pp. 3-6