[Digital nerve block anaesthesia: historical development and two cases of finger-tip necrosis, a rare complication].

Two cases of finger-tip necrosis following digital blocks are presented. These are rare complications of this technique. Pathogenesis and treatment options are discussed and the literature reviewed. Circulatory problems can be avoided by using adrenalin free anaesthetics, infiltrating at the metacarpal level with small volumes, and using upper-arm tourniquets instead of rubber bands at the phalangeal level.