Extensor Tendon Injuries [Mallet Finger]

• Due to jamming the finger or to use a Pittsburgh term "stoving it".
• Can result in a swan neck deformity or permanent flexion of the DIP joint.
• Due to stretching of the extensor tendon,or avulsion of the extensor tendon off the distal phalanx.
• Approximately 50% will develop a complication.
• Conservative treatment is splinting the DIP joint in full extension for 5-6 weeks. 
  • The DIP joint must not be flexed for the full treatment period.
  • If the patient does flex their DIP, the 5-6 week time frame needs to completely restart.
• Due to the high complication rate all of these patients should be referred to a hand specialist early.