Abstract
Various removal techniques for rings trapped on the finger have been described in
the current literature. However, despite this being a frequently encountered situation
in emergency departments, there is no comprehensive algorithm to manage and follow
these patients in the current literature. The purposes of this study were to describe
the most commonly used ring removal techniques and to establish an algorithm for the
removal of rings trapped on fingers. We performed a comprehensive literature search
in several databases to identify all articles, case reports, letters, and book chapters
that focus on ring removal techniques in English language from 1960 to the present.
There are 2 methods of removal: (1) noncutting techniques in which the rings can be
removed without breaking the integrity of the ring and (2) various ring-cutting equipments
and tools. All these techniques are classified into distinct groups and described
in detail with illustrations. Furthermore, an algorithm for handling such patients
is established according to case-based patient care. Following an algorithm for the
removal of trapped rings on the finger will be useful for patients and emergency physicians.
It will also prevent possible complications and will save time.
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Article Info
Publication History
Published online: September 25, 2013
Accepted:
June 17,
2013
Received in revised form:
June 16,
2013
Received:
April 22,
2013
Footnotes
☆Contributorship statement: Asim Kalkan and Ozkan Kose were responsible for the original idea and literature review. Mahmut Tas and Gokhan Meric provided advice on content and style. All authors contributed to the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data and made the revisions and contributed to the intellectual concept of this review article.
Identification
Copyright
© 2013 Elsevier Inc. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.
