Setting a broken finger involves different steps depending on the severity of the fracture. Here's a breakdown:
Initial Assessment and Stability
- Stable Fractures: If the fracture is stable, meaning the bone pieces are aligned or haven't moved much, a simple method might suffice. According to the provided information, taping the injured finger to a healthy adjacent finger may be enough for treatment.
- Unstable Fractures: If the broken bones have shifted out of place or are severely fragmented, it's considered unstable. Unstable fractures require more intervention, like immobilization with a splint.
Medical Interventions
Reduction (Realignment)
- A doctor will typically realign the broken bone fragments. This process is called "reduction."
- After the bones are aligned, they need to be kept in place to heal properly.
Immobilization
- Splinting: For fractures that are stable after reduction, a splint is commonly applied. The splint supports the finger, preventing movement and allowing the bone to heal.
- Surgery: If the fracture is unstable or displaced even after reduction, surgery may be required. This might involve using pins, screws, or plates to hold the bones in the correct position.
Summary of Broken Finger Treatment
| Fracture Type | Treatment | Medical Assistance Required? |
|---|---|---|
| Stable | Taping to an adjacent finger or splinting | Yes, for assessment |
| Unstable | Reduction, splinting, or surgery | Yes, essential |
What Not to Do
- Do not attempt to set a broken finger on your own, especially if the fracture is unstable. Always seek medical attention.
- Avoid moving the injured finger unnecessarily to prevent further damage.
In conclusion, setting a broken finger should be done by a medical professional and will depend on whether the fracture is stable or unstable. Initial treatment may consist of splinting or buddy taping, but surgery may be required for more severe breaks.
