Add like
Add dislike
Add to saved papers

Mallet finger - management and patient compliance.

BACKGROUND: Mallet finger is a flexion deformity of the finger resulting from injury to the extensor mechanism at the base of the distal phalanx.

OBJECTIVE: This article discusses the current clinical assessment and appropriate management of mallet finger injuries.

DISCUSSION: Mallet finger usually results from forced flexion of an extended finger. Treatment can be difficult as patient compliance is essential, and if not treated appropriately the injury can lead to permanent deformity. Patients will present with a flexion deformity of, and inability to actively extend, the distal interphalangeal joint. Closed mallet finger injuries are managed in a strict extension or hyperextension immobilisation splint for 8 weeks. Surgery is reserved for injuries involving fracture to greater than 30% of the articular surface, volar subluxation of the distal phalanx, avulsed fragments that fail reduction, injuries failing conservative management, and absence of full passive extension of the joint. Early referral is recommended if there is any concern.

Full text links

We have located links that may give you full text access.
Can't access the paper?
Try logging in through your university/institutional subscription. For a smoother one-click institutional access experience, please use our mobile app.

For the best experience, use the Read mobile app

Mobile app image

Get seemless 1-tap access through your institution/university

For the best experience, use the Read mobile app

All material on this website is protected by copyright, Copyright © 1994-2024 by WebMD LLC.
This website also contains material copyrighted by 3rd parties.

By using this service, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy.

Your Privacy Choices Toggle icon

You can now claim free CME credits for this literature searchClaim now

Get seemless 1-tap access through your institution/university

For the best experience, use the Read mobile app