Fingertip nail bed injuries in children: Comparison of suture repair versus glue (2-octylcyanoacrylate) with 1-year follow-up

The main objective of this study was to compare the medium-term results of nail bed repair in children using glue (2-octylcyanoacrylate) versus absorbable sutures. The secondary objective was to compare the results of treatment in the emergency room versus the operating room. This retrospective review of 74 fingertip nail bed lacerations (68 children) evaluated the appearance and pain at the last follow-up visit (minimum of 1 year), and the operating time. Mean age was 3.3 years at time of injury (range 10 months–13 years), with a mean follow-up of 2.6 (1–7) years. Thirty-six nail beds were repaired with glue; 38 were sutured. The clinical outcomes in the two groups were similar. The rate of nail dystrophy was 14% (5% major) regardless of the technique. Nail bed repair time was significantly shorter in the glue group (10.2 vs. 20.3min, p<0.001). Forty-five repairs were performed in the operating room and 29 in the emergency room. The complication rate (early infections) was significantly higher in patients treated in the emergency room. Tissue adhesive (2-octylcyanoacrylate glue) is a reliable option for repairing nail bed lacerations, both in terms of outcomes and speed of repair. Treatment in the operating room is preferable.