Original article

Treatment-related and clinical predictors of extended recovery after fingertip injury: a single-centre experience

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Abstract

Aim: To evaluate whether treatment approach and Allen’s classification are associated with treatment duration after fingertip injury and to identify predictors of prolonged recovery.

Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 91 patients treated for fingertip injuries at Cantonal Hospital Zenica (January 2024 – December 2024). Injuries were classified using Allen’s system, and treatment duration was grouped as 7–25, 26–35, or 36–90 days. 

Results: The cohort was predominantly male (89.0%), with a median age of 47 years (IQR 36–71). Median treatment duration was 24 days (IQR 15–33). Longer treatment duration was associated with exposed distal phalanx (p = 0.016), type 2 diabetes mellitus (p < 0.001), and treatment approach (p < 0.001). In multivariable analysis, osteosynthesis compared with suture (OR 2.95, 95% CI 1.30–12.63) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (OR 3.78, 95% CI 1.22–11.72) were associated with prolonged treatment in exploratory multivariable analysis (36–90 days). 

Conclusion: Treatment approach and selected comorbidities should be considered alongside injury classification when anticipating recovery duration; however, the findings should be interpreted cautiously because of the limited number of prolonged-treatment events and diabetic patients.

Keywords: finger injuries, postoperative complications, prognosis, surgical procedures