Because fingertips are full of nerves, an injury or amputation can be severe and possibly damaging to the hand’s functionality. The recommended fingertip amputation procedure will depend upon the severity of the injury and the patient’s general health.

What to Expect

If the fingertip amputation is minor, a physician will likely apply a sterile dressing or splint to the area. If the injury is larger, a skin graft will be performed. Skin will be surgically removed from another area of the body, called the donor site, and reattached to the injured fingertip. If the fingertip amputation exposes the bone, a physician may perform reconstructive flap surgery or reattach the amputated part of the finger.

While most skin grafts are successful, patients may require another graft if the first does not heal properly. Full recovery from fingertip amputation may take several weeks to months.

How to Prepare

Pre procedure use of medication should be discussed with your primary care physician prior to your scheduled procedure date. Before the procedure, your physician may request that you do not eat or drink eight to 10 hours beforehand and stop taking certain medications.