When to seek medical attention for ring avulsion?
It is important that any time an injury occurs to one of your fingers while wearing a ring, an appropriate evaluation and medical attention is obtained in a timely manner. A ring avulsion injury occurs when a ring worn on the finger is forcefully pulled away from the finger causing damage to the soft tissues of the finger.
What to do with a wedding ring avulsion injury?
Class III injuries may be considered for replantation (reattachment) of the finger, but this surgery is not always possible depending on the degree of soft-tissue damage. It is important to note, that even with proper treatment, Class II injuries are susceptible to ischemia of the finger (insufficient blood flow), that may require amputation.
Is it possible to reconstruct a ring avulsion?
The majority of people who suffer a ring avulsion end up losing their fingers. “We fix some, we cut many off,” says Hutchinson. “It’s very difficult to reconstruct.” In Fallon’s case, doctors were able to save the finger by using a vein taken from his foot.
What causes an avulsion fracture of the volar plate?
These injuries are commonly caused by hyperextension of the finger causing an avulsion fracture of the volar plate. Often, in addition to hyperextension, axial pressure applied to the fingertip, causes longitudinal compression forces on the middle phalanx towards the proximal phalanx; this can lead to an additional impaction fracture.
Where is the avulsion of the volar plate?
Complete dorsal dislocation of the PIP joint and avulsion of the volar plate. The base of the middle phalanx rests dorsally on the condyles of the proximal phalanx, with no contact between the articular surfaces. A fracture dislocation with an avulsed small fragment.
What to look for in a proximal plate avulsion?
Look for the characteristic “V” sign of diverging joint surfaces, which indicates this injury. In the lateral view, the dorsal cortical profiles of the proximal and middle phalanges should be collinear. Any axial malalignment is a clear indication of subluxation. Ask the patient to flex the finger under image intensification.