The most practicable and certain primary method for general use in the repair of traumatic amputation of digits is a cover by a thin split-thickness skin graft, when necessary after anterior shortening of the exposed phalanx. This free graft repair is relatively unsightly and poorly sensitized; but it is much more reliable and its performance needs less experience than a full-thickness skin-graft cover.
The best repair for these common important finger-tip injuries is one by "like" tissue,—that is, by a thenar or palmar flap. When properly executed, these flaps show no disability in the donor sites, give the best-looking stumps and the best return of sensation to them.