Clinical Outcomes of Semi-Occlusive Dressing for Allen Type III Fingertip Injuries

Background/Objectives: Local flap coverage is still widely regarded as the treatment of choice for Allen type III fingertip injuries, and outcome data for conservative treatment remain limited. We evaluated the outcomes of semi-occlusive dressing for Allen type III fingertip injuries with bone exposure.

Methods

This retrospective single-centre case series included 15 patients with 17 digits sustaining Allen type III fingertip injuries with exposed bone treated with semi-occlusive dressing. Allen type I or II injuries, isolated pulp defects, infection-related tissue loss and incomplete follow-up were excluded. Finger and thumb motion were assessed as total active motion and interphalangeal joint motion, respectively, as a percentage of the contralateral digit. Sensation was assessed using two-point discrimination, Semmes–Weinstein monofilament testing and a subjective contralateral percentage scale.