A simple effective splinting technique for the mallet finger.

Abstract

We describe an inexpensive, simple, and effective technique for the closed treatment of mallet fingers. This technique splints the mallet finger in 0 degrees of extension. It is simple, readily reproducible, and easy to use, requiring materials that are readily available to any physician. Thirty-seven patients, ages 21 to 65 years, presented with a closed mallet finger injury at day zero to 5 months after injury. Ten of these patients had a fracture. All were treated with this splinting technique. We report excellent results in 35 of 37 patients, who recovered either complete or near-complete active extension. Our results compare favorably with results from other techniques and splints.