title: [Total and subtotal amputation of the finger tip in children: opportunity to attempt a repositioning].
abstract: A case of subtotal traumatic amputation of the tip of the left thumb, at the level of midshaft of the distal phalanx, in a seven years old boy, with interruption of the neurovascular bundles, associated fracture, and residual presence of a mere bridge of volar skin, is presented. The treatment consists of irrigation and debridement, repositioning of the fragment, fixation of the fracture with a 25 gauge needle and suturing of the skin. The final functional and aesthetic result appears optimal, with full survival of the distal fragment, which to practical purpose behaves like a composite graft, with some additional contribution to venous drainage provided by the residual bridge of tissue. Compared to the other possible surgical techniques, all requiring the use of grafts or flaps, the attempt of repositioning of the distal fragment after total or subtotal amputation of a fingertip, especially in a child, appears always well justified and worthwhile.
authors.affiliation: Istituto di Chirurgia Plastica e Ricostruttiva, Università di Torino.
authors.forename: E
authors.initials: E
authors.lastname: Robotti
mesh_terms: D000673:Amputation, Traumatic / Q000601:surgery*; D002648:Child; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D012092:Replantation; D013933:Thumb / Q000293:injuries* / Q000601:surgery
vernacular_title: Amputazione totale e subtotale della punta delle dita nel bambino: opportunità del tentativo di riposizionamento.