The Aesthetic Outcomes of Fingertip Amputation Are Better with Proximal Nail Fold Recession

Background: There are numerous flaps described for the treatment of fingertip amputation. Most flaps do not address the shortened nail resulting from amputation. Proximal nail fold (PNF) recession is a simple procedure that exposes the hidden portion of the nail and improves the aesthetic appearance of an amputated fingertip. The aim of this study is to measure the size and aesthetic outcomes of the nail following fingertip amputation in patients treated with PNF recession compared to those treated without PNF recession. Methods: This study was conducted between April 2016 and June 2020 and included patients with a digital-tip amputation who underwent a local flap or shortening closure for reconstruction. All suitable patients were counselled for PNF recession. In addition to demographic, injury and treatment data, the length and area of the nail were measured. The outcomes were assessed at a minimum of 1 year after surgery and included measurement of the size of the nail, patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcomes. A comparison of the outcomes was done between patients who underwent PNF recession versus those who did not. Results: Out of 165 patients treated for fingertip injury, 78 underwent PNF recession (Group A) and 87 did not undergo PNF recession (Group B). In Group A, the nail length was 72.54% (SD: 14.4) and the nail plate area was 74.35% (SD: 13.96) compared to the contralateral uninjured nail. These results were significantly better (p = 0.000) compared to Group B where the values were 36.49% (SD: 8.45) and 35.8% (SD: 8.4), respectively. The patient satisfaction and aesthetic outcome scores were also significantly higher in Group A patients (p = 0.002). Conclusions: The size and aesthetic outcomes of the nail following fingertip amputation in patients treated with PNF recession are better compared to those treated without PNF recession. Level of Evidence: Level III (Therapeutic).