From the Guidelines
Buddy taping is recommended for non-displaced proximal phalanx fractures that are stable and well-aligned, as it provides adequate immobilization while maintaining joint mobility and preventing stiffness. The decision to buddy tape is based on the diagnosis, which is confirmed with radiographic studies, and the presence of focal pain on palpation 1. When fracture fragments are small, nonarticular, or minimally displaced, simple immobilization, such as buddy taping, is an appropriate treatment option.
Key Considerations for Buddy Taping
- The injured finger should be taped to an adjacent uninjured finger immediately after diagnosis and continued for 3-4 weeks for adults and 2-3 weeks for children.
- Use narrow strips of non-allergenic tape (like paper or cloth tape) wrapped around both fingers at the middle and distal phalanges, with gauze placed between the fingers to prevent skin maceration.
- The tape should be snug enough to provide support but not so tight as to restrict circulation.
- Patients should be instructed to keep the tape dry, replace it if it becomes wet or soiled, and seek immediate medical attention if they experience increased pain, numbness, color changes, or if the fracture appears to shift position.
Follow-up and Monitoring
- Follow-up radiographs are typically recommended at 2-3 weeks to ensure proper healing.
- The buddy taping technique works by using the healthy finger as a splint, limiting movement that could displace the fracture while allowing some functional use of the hand during healing. The approach to buddy taping for non-displaced proximal phalanx fractures prioritizes maintaining joint mobility and preventing stiffness, while ensuring the fracture heals properly, thus reducing morbidity and improving quality of life 1.
From the Research
Buddy Taping for Non-Displaced Proximal Phalanx Fractures
- Buddy taping can be used for non-displaced proximal phalanx fractures, as evidenced by a study 2 that recommended taping for undisplaced finger fractures in children.
- The study 2 found that buddy taping was non-inferior to splinting in terms of secondary fracture displacements, and patients in the taping group reported higher comfort levels.
- Another study 3 found that base fractures of the fifth proximal phalanx can be treated conservatively with buddy taping and immediate mobilisation, resulting in high overall satisfaction and minimal complications.
- However, a study 4 highlighted the potential complications of buddy taping, including skin injuries and limited joint motion, and emphasized the need for careful consideration when using this method.
Indications for Buddy Taping
- Buddy taping can be used for non-displaced proximal phalanx fractures, as well as for fractures with minimal displacement that are stable after reduction 2, 3.
- The method is particularly suitable for fractures of the fifth proximal phalanx, where exact reposition of the fracture is not crucial 3.
- Buddy taping can also be used for other types of finger and toe injuries, such as sprains and dislocations 4.
Considerations for Buddy Taping
- The potential complications of buddy taping, including skin injuries and limited joint motion, should be carefully considered 4.
- The choice of tape and fixation method can help minimize the risk of complications 4.
- Patient compliance and education are crucial to ensure proper use and minimization of complications 4.