Complications and technical failures in distal phalangeal injury management

The most frequent complications are related to soft-tissue problems including tendon adhesions, intraarticular fibrosis, and scarring around implants and the surgical site. Attention to careful soft-tissue management and early rehabilitation including mobilization and appropriate splintage are all relevant to prevention of these problems.

Common complications of these injuries are:

• Altered sensibility (numbness, hyperesthesia
• Tenderness
• Cold hypersensitivity (cold intolerance)
• Restriction of DIP joint movement
• Nail growth abnormalities

These complications may result despite careful surgical or nonoperative treatment.

If a small tourniquet has been created with the finger of a glove, make sure to remove it at the end of the surgery.

Failure to do so may result in ischemia and subsequent loss of the finger!