Mallet Finger

Question 1

What would examination of a mallet finger show

Answer 1

Mobile flexion deformity of the distal phalanx

*Fixed if chronic

Question 2

What is this?

Answer 2

Mallet finger

Question 3

What is the cause of mallet finger

Answer 3

Danage of the extensor tendon to the terminal phalanx of the involved finger

May occur if a flake of bone is avulsed from the base of the distal phalanx

*May occur in catching a ball

Question 4

How do you manage an acute presentation of mallet finger

Answer 4

X-ray - to exclude fracture

Finger should be splinted for 6 weeks with the DIP joint in extension in a mallet splint to allow reattachment of the tendon

Consider repositioning with a fine Kirschner wire or other internal fixation device

Question 5

When would you consider internal fixation for a mallet finger

Answer 5

If the avulsed bone flake is greater than 1/3 of the width of the joint space on the lateral X-ray