title: Yubitsume: ritualistic self-amputation of proximal digits among the Yakuza.
abstract: Yubitsume is the ritualistic self-amputation of the proximal digits at the distal interphalangeal joint (DIP) among members of the Japanese Mafia, or Yakuza. This practice of self-mutilation is done as a sign of apology for making a mistake deemed punishable by higher-ranking members or violating the code of the Yakuza. Members of the Yakuza may present to emergency departments seeking medical assistance to stop hemorrhage or treat infection at the site of injury following self-amputation or to have the severed portion of the injured finger reattached.
authors.forename: Anand N
authors.initials: AN
authors.lastname: Bosmia
authors.affiliation: Division of Neurosurgery, Department of Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA. Email: cgriessenauer@uabmc.edu.
authors.forename: Christoph J
authors.initials: CJ
authors.lastname: Griessenauer
authors.forename: R Shane
authors.initials: RS
authors.lastname: Tubbs
mesh_terms: D002562:Ceremonial Behavior; D057237:Criminals; D005385:Fingers; D005554:Forensic Medicine; D006801:Humans; D007564:Japan; D011678:Punishment; D012652:Self Mutilation; D014754:Violence