A Case Report of Ring Tourniquet Syndrome: A Paradigm of Danger

Abstract

Ring Tourniquet Syndrome (RTS) is a rare but potentially serious condition that occurs when a small, tight object such as a hair, thread, or string becomes wrapped around a finger, toe, or other body part, creating a tourniquet-like effect. This can lead to tissue damage, swelling, a bluish colour of the finger, and in severe cases, loss of the affected digit or limb. Here, we present a case of an 11-year-old female patient who was diagnosed with RTS due to a metallic latch on the left index finger. The patient was managed with the removal of the latch under local anaesthesia in the operating theatre and regained full range of motion without any signs of ischemia on a 2-week follow-up. This case report highlights the successful salvage of a finger affected by RTS through prompt recognition and appropriate intervention.

Keywords

• cyanosis
• ischaemia
• necrosis