Surge in fingertip injuries due to motorcycle cleaning, doctors warn

By Chaturanga Pradeep Samarawickrama   

A rising number of injuries to the fingertips of dominant hands have been reported among men while attempting to clean their brand-new motorcycles, Colombo National Hospital’s Plastic and Surgery Department has warned.   
Dr. Ganidu Madhava, addressing the media at the weekly Health Promotion Bureau yesterday, said most victims are young men aged 20 to 30. He noted a recurring pattern of injuries linked to unsafe chain-cleaning practices.  

“Motorcycle manufacturers advise cleaning chains after a certain number of kilometers. However, many riders attempt to clean the chain with bare hands while the engine is running in first gear. Using a piece of cotton cloth, their fingers often get caught in the chain, causing severe injuries. The first, second, and third fingers of the dominant hand are most commonly affected,” Dr. Madhava explained.   
He added that many patients arrive at the hospital seeking finger replacements, but in most cases, the fingers are too severely damaged for reattachment.   
Dr. Madhava urged motorcycle users to follow safety guidelines and avoid cleaning chains while the engine is running to prevent serious injuries.