Clinical Presentation & Protocol
Patient Usually Complains Of
Patient presents with acute onset of pain, swelling, and drooping of the distal phalanx of the right [Digit] finger following [Mechanism of Injury, e.g., direct axial load/jamming]. Patient reports inability to actively extend the distal interphalangeal (DIP) joint. No numbness or tingling reported.
Clinical Examination Findings
Right hand examination reveals soft tissue swelling and ecchymosis localized to the dorsal aspect of the [Digit] DIP joint. Active extension of the right [Digit] DIP joint is absent with a fixed flexion deformity of [Number] degrees. Passive extension is full. Neurovascular status is intact with capillary refill <2 seconds and preserved sensation in the digital nerve distribution.
Treatment Protocol
Diagnosis of mallet finger confirmed. Treatment initiated with continuous immobilization of the right [Digit] DIP joint in a neutral or slight hyperextension position using a [Type of Splint, e.g., Stack splint/Stax splint] for 6-8 weeks. Patient instructed to maintain splint at all times, including during hygiene, to prevent extensor lag recurrence.