Review on mallet finger treatment.
Mallet finger is a common injury involving either an extensor tendon rupture at its insertion or an avulsion fracture involving the insertion of the terminal extensor tendon. It is usually caused by a forceful blow to the tip of the finger causing sudden flexion or a hyperextension injury. Fracture at the dorsal aspect of the base of the distal phalanx is commonly associated with palmar subluxation of the distal phalanx. Most mallet finger injuries are recommended to be treated with immobilisation of the distal interphalangeal joint in extension by splints. There is no consensus on the type of splint and the duration of use. Most studies have shown comparable results with different splints. Surgical fixation is still indicated in certain conditions such as open injuries, avulsion fracture involving at least one third of the articular surface with or without palmar subluxation of the distal phalanx and also failed splinting treatment.
Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, University of Hong Kong Medical Centre, Queen Mary Hospital, Hong Kong. jcheung98@hotmail.com
Jason Pui Yin
JP
Cheung
Boris
B
Fung
Wing Yuk
WY
Ip
D005383:Finger Injuries / Q000150:complications* / Q000601:surgery; D005384:Finger Joint; D006227:Hand Deformities, Acquired / Q000209:etiology* / Q000601:surgery; D006801:Humans; D004204:Joint Dislocations / Q000150:complications / Q000601:surgery*; D019637:Orthopedic Procedures / Q000379:methods*