Mallet Finger
What is a Mallet Finger?
Mallet finger occurs when the tendon that helps straighten out the finger tip ruptures or breaks. This causes the finger tip to be in a "flexed" or bent position with an inability to straighten the finger tip.
How do we treat it?
Often times mallet finger can be treated by splinting the fingertip in an "extended" or straight position for a period of time. X-rays may be taken to determine if there is a "fracture" or broken bone associated with the broken tendon. Depending on the X-ray findings, you may benefit from surgery instead of simple splinting.
What is the surgery?
Surgery for mallet finger involves carefully inserting metal pins to help keep the finger in an extended position and to help hold any associated fracture in the correct alignment. The pins are removed after an extended period of time. This is performed as "same-day-surgery" and total time spent in the hospital is typically only a few hours. That way, you can be back in the comfort of your own home quickly.