Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute onset of left little finger pain and deformity following a direct traumatic injury. Patient reports inability to actively extend the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. No history of prior injury to the digit. Pain is localized to the dorsal aspect of the distal phalanx.
Clinical Examination Findings
Physical examination of the left little finger reveals a characteristic mallet deformity with a flexion lag at the DIP joint. Tenderness to palpation noted over the dorsal base of the distal phalanx. Skin integrity is intact. Neurovascular status is intact with capillary refill < 2 seconds and preserved sensation in the ulnar nerve distribution.
Treatment Protocol
Diagnosis of mallet finger confirmed. Treatment initiated with continuous immobilization of the DIP joint in slight hyperextension using a custom-molded splint. Patient instructed to maintain splint wear 24/7 for 6-8 weeks. Avoidance of any active or passive flexion of the DIP joint is mandatory to prevent disruption of the healing extensor tendon.