Neglected finger ring entrapment: a case series illustrating lessons for clinical practice

Finger ring entrapment could compromise the neurovascular status of the finger if not treated promptly. We aimed to report two cases of neglected finger ring entrapment following minor blunt trauma to the hand and illustrate some lessons for clinical practice. Both patients were right-hand dominant, presented 3-4 weeks after the onset of symptoms, and had circumferential ulceration of the affected fingers. The removal of both rings was performed using a wire cutter and bender. Neglected finger ring entrapment could result in multiple sequelae of the affected finger. Timely invention in finger ring entrapment is crucial to forestall neurovascular sequelae. We recommend immediate removal of all jewellery on fingers following any form of hand trauma as a primary preventive measure. We also recommend that clinicians who intend to use a ring-cutting method assess the material used to forge the ring to aid proper selection of a cutting device.