First Aid In Case Of Accidental Amputation Of A Finger
Accidental amputation of a finger is a common emergency situation. Most cases occur on the fingers of the hand. There are many causes that can lead to this problem.
For example, traffic accidents or workplace accidents in factories or farms. There may also be accidental amputation of a finger secondary to an electrocution, burn or frostbite. There are even cultures in which this is done as a punishment for criminals or as a ritual.
Few people know how to act correctly in the event of accidental amputation of a finger. Therefore, in this article we explain the most basic first aid measures. This can minimize the risk of limb loss.
First aid for accidental amputation of a finger
According to a study carried out at the Hospital de San José in Colombia, accidental amputation of a finger is one of the most important causes of emergency care. In fact, it is one of the most frequent emergencies in hand surgery.
This is an injury that must be treated quickly. The earlier and more efficient the care, the more likely it is that the amputated part can be reimplanted. So the first step is to call 911.
When calling, it is essential to explain how the accident was and the characteristics of the injury. A clean cut is not the same as a crush. In addition, they will inform from the medical service what first aid steps it is important to follow next.
1. Stop the bleeding
Once emergencies have been contacted, the first step (which can also be done simultaneously with the call) is to stop the bleeding. After accidental amputation of a finger, there is usually significant bleeding.
You have to try to stop it by pressing the wound. At the same time, the arm with the injury must be raised above the level of the heart. This makes it difficult for blood to flow in that direction. However, it is not recommended to squeeze or bandage the area too tightly.
Applying too much power to any part of the limb can cause blood flow to be cut off. This is detrimental to the finger, as it would go into ischemia and no longer be viable for reconstruction.
2. Calm the person
An article by Dr. Leopoldo Cagigal explains that calming the injured person is another basic step. An accidental amputation of a finger causes a lot of pain and can even lead to shock .
That is why it is recommended to lay the person down. Ideally, elevate your feet to avoid dizziness. In the same way, it is advisable to warm it with a blanket or clothing. You should try to speak, instilling calm and security.
There is a tendency to think that giving alcoholic beverages or food is beneficial. However, the opposite is true. In fact, it is advisable not to eat or drink anything, in case a surgical procedure is to be performed in the following hours.
3. Care of the amputated finger
There are many myths surrounding what to do in the event of an accidental toe amputation. In movies and series this scene is seen recurrently, but many of the performances that appear are not correct.
An article from the American Academy Orthopedic Surgeons briefly explains what should be done. The first thing is to clean the lesion, if possible with a sterile gauze. There is no need to remove the rings or remove the patient’s clothing. Rubbing the area is also not recommended.
Regarding the amputated finger, once it is clean it must be covered with a damp gauze. In addition, you have to keep any part, without discarding any piece, no matter how small. Once this is done it is placed in a clean waterproof bag and hermetically closed.
In the event that there are several amputated fingers, they must be placed in separate bags. These bags must be placed in others that contain ice. Ideally, the finger should be kept at about 4 degrees Celsius.
Hospital care for accidental amputation of a finger
As we have seen, calling 911 is a priority in the face of accidental amputation of a finger. Once you arrive at the hospital, the main thing will be the stabilization of the patient. The doctor will then examine the stump and finger. This will determine if it can be reimplanted.
Either way, anesthesia is usually given to proceed to heal the wound. It must be well debrided to remove any remaining damaged tissue.
The final route is usually surgery, either to reconstruct the finger or to close the wound. A study published in the Journal of the Andalusian Society of Traumatology and Orthopedics states that the use of semi-permeable dressings helps regeneration to occur in a short time.
When is it advisable not to join the amputated finger?
There are many reasons why reattachment of the severed finger is not recommended. One of them is that the injury is very complex and the hand is not in good condition. For example, after a crush. Another is that the parts have not been well preserved.
On the other hand, the health of the person must be taken into account. There are certain aspects, such as age, smoking or diabetes, that negatively influence the reimplantation of the finger.
Union after accidental amputation of a finger
After accidental amputation of a finger there are a number of aspects to consider to assess whether or not the finger can be reattached. As explained by the Navarrese Health Service, the finger must not have been in ischemia for more than 6 hours.
It is recommended to try to join as long as the thumb is possible. Especially in children. On the other hand, reimplantation is more likely if it has been a clean cut.
Recovery after accidental amputation of a finger
After accidental amputation of a finger, the recovery process may be long. Most people require rehabilitation to maintain mobility of the hand. It all depends on how the injury was.
However, it is usually necessary to exercise regularly. For example, slowly extend your finger. For this, it is recommended to place your hand on a table and lift each finger gently. You also have to gradually bend it.
It is important to act quickly
In the event of accidental amputation of a finger, it is essential to act quickly. What we must bear in mind is that the bleeding must be stopped without actually cutting off the blood flow.
You should also try to preserve all the parts that have been amputated. For this, clean and cold bags are used. However, the main thing is always to ask for help and get to the hospital as soon as possible.
