The authors report on 4 patients with traumatic finger amputations who were treated with osseointegrated titanium implants to attach finger prostheses. One implant failed to osseointegrate. The 3 remaining patients (3 implants) were satisfied with their outcomes, both cosmetically and functionally, at a minimum follow-up of 1.5 years in 2 cases.
Amputation of a digit can lead to functional and psychological problems and some patients may benefit from digital prostheses. Standard prostheses can be unstable, particularly when fitted over short amputation stumps. Previous reports of osseointegrated finger implants have been encouraging (Lundborg, J Hand Surg Am 1996; Manurangsee et al, J Hand Surg Am 2000). The embedded implants will provide stability for finger prostheses and may offer some vibration and position sensibility. However, the potential for infection remains a distinct concern.