Mallet finger

Common card · No. 436579

A mallet finger, also known as hammer finger or PLF finger or Hannan finger, is an extensor tendon injury at the furthest away finger joint. This results in the inability to straighten the finger tip without pushing it. There is generally pain and bruising at the back of the furthest away finger joint. A mallet finger usually results from overbending of the finger tip. This typically occurs when a ball hits an outstretched finger and jams it. This results in either a tear of the tendon or the tendon pulling off a bit of bone. The diagnosis is generally based on symptoms and supported by X-rays. Treatment is normally with a splint that holds the fingertip straight continuously for 8 weeks. The middle joint is allowed to move. This should commence within a week of the injury. If the finger is bent during these weeks, healing may take longer. If a large piece of bone has been torn off, surgery may be recommended. Without proper treatment, the finger may be permanently deformed.

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