Generally, mallet finger can be treated non-surgically using splint or braces for 6-8 weeks. Mallet finger is a condition characterized by abnormal drooping of the finger at the interphalangeal joint as a result of a tendon damage. The common risks and complications associated with mallet finger surgery, include:Īvascular necrosis (bone death from lack of blood supply). If the mallet finger involves a fracture of the bone fragment, then it can be stabilized and fixed using pins and a special K-wire.Īfter mallet finger surgery, the patient is recommended for physical therapy or occupational therapy for flexibility and strengthening exercises. Patients who fail to achieve adequate relief are recommended for surgery which involves repairing the torn tendon. The pins can be removed after 6 weeks of healing. Immobilizing the finger with a splint helps promote natural healing of the torn tendon or bones.įor patients who require use of their fingers to perform occupational tasks, internal splints can be used this involves surgical placement of metal pins in the affected bones. Mallet finger can be treated non-surgically by applying a specially designed splint for 6-8 weeks. In some cases, other imaging techniques such as MRI scan may be recommended. The diagnosis of mallet finger involves a physical examination and obtaining an X-ray of the injured finger. You should visit your primary care physician for an X-Ray. If fractured or broken, your finger will most likely be swollen and possibly. The main symptoms of mallet finger are drooping of the finger at the distal joint, pain and swelling around the area and limited range of motion at the joint. A sprained thumb is an injury of an overextended or torn ligament connecting the bones at the. An x-ray is the only way to verify for sure if you have a fracture or break. Mallet finger occurs due to sports activities (such as baseball) or other activities that cause a direct and forceful impact on the fingers. If left untreated, mallet finger can develop into a finger joint deformity referred to as a swan neck deformity. In severe cases that don’t respond to conservative treatment, surgery is recommended. In cases of fracture, complete bone healing may take 6-8 weeks, followed by physical therapy for strengthening. Generally, mallet finger can be treated non-surgically using specially designed splints that immobilize the finger and promote natural healing. The injury causes either rupture of the extensor tendon without a bone fracture or rupture with a small or large bone fracture. Mallet finger occurs from sports activities causing a “jammed” finger or from excessive stress on the finger such as with a crushing injury. The joint near the base of the finger is called the proximal IP joint or PIP joint, and the joint near the tip of the finger is called the distal IP joint or DIP joint. Each finger is composed of 3 phalanges bones, joined by 2 interphalangeal joints (IP joints). The finger joint is a hinge-joint that allows bending and straightening of the fingers. It occurs when the extensor tendon on the back of the finger is damaged. Erickson received his medical degree from the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas and completed his orthopaedic surgery training at the University of Michigan Hospitals in Ann Arbor.Mallet finger is a condition where the end of the finger is bent and does not straighten. He is board-certified in orthopaedic surgery and completed additional fellowship training in hand and upper extremity surgery at Vanderbilt University. Erickson, MD is a hand and arm specialist at the Raleigh Hand Center in Raleigh, NC. Learn more about other finger injuries, including a jammed finger and fingertip injuries at John M. If the wound is bleeding, apply a clean bandage or cloth and hold pressure on the wound to stop the bleeding. If you see deformity and lacerations (cuts) in the skin, apply a splint to immobilize the finger, elevate the hand to reduce swelling, and wash the lacerations with running water to clean the area thoroughly. Order an x-ray or other imaging scan if he or she suspects a fracture or. I have heard from many patients “I could still move it, so I didn’t think it was broken.” In many cases, a fracture causes the finger to be stiff and difficult to move however, this is not true in all cases. Hand and finger injuries are common among athletes, ranging from jammed fingers. Many breaks or fractures in the fingers can be misdiagnosed as “just a sprain” or a “ jammed finger.” If a finger fracture is not treated appropriately, the long-term results may not be good. You can get x-rays in your physician’s office, urgent care, or local emergency room. If you recently injured your finger and are wondering if it is broken, the best thing to do is get an x-ray to find out. John Erickson explains when to visit a doctor for a broken finger.
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