Ring Removal

Presentation

Removal of rings from fingers or toes may be required due a variety of conditions that predispose to digital swelling, such as trauma, infection, burns, peripheral edema, or arthropod assault. Sometimes chronic tight-fitting rings begin to obstruct lymphatic drainage, causing swelling and further constriction ( Fig. 152.1 ). Rings often have sentimental and monetary value to the patient. Thus providers should be familiar with a variety of removal techniques.