Mallet finger

Case contributed by Andrew Taylor
Diagnosis certain

Presentation

Trauma

Patient Data

Age: 50 years
Gender: Male
x-ray

Intra-articular fracture through the base of the distal phalanx of the 5th finger. There is a 4mm triangular avulsion fragment at the insertion of the common extensor tendon with 3mm dorsal displacement. Findings are consistent with a mallet fracture and orthopedic review is recommended.

Case Discussion

The patient presented following trauma with an inability to extend the distal interphalangeal joint in keeping with a mallet finger injury. Treatment is most commonly non-operative using an extension splint. Indications for operative management include open injury, volar subluxation of the distal phalanx, avulsion fragment more than one-third of the articular surface and more than 2mm displacement.  

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