Orthopaedic Hand Trauma CH32 (1)

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CHAPTER 32  | Mallet Finger

Figure 32.5  Lateral plain radiograph of a tendinous mallet finger injury.

● ● Full-time splinting is recommended for 6 to 8 weeks to avoid gap formation. The PIP joint should be left free to avoid unnecessary joint stiffness. ● ● This is followed by 2 to 6 weeks of nighttime splinting and splinting during vigorous activities. Progressive flexion exercises can begin at 6 weeks. Table 32.1  Wehbe and Schneider Classification Types 1 No distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint subluxation 2 DIP joint subluxation 3 Epiphyseal and physeal injuries Subtypes A Less than 1/3 of the articular surface B 1/3– 2/3 of the articular surface C More than 2/3 of the articular surface