Operative treatment of mallet finger due to intra-articular fracture of the distal phalanx.

Treatment of a mallet finger due to an intra-articular fracture of the distal phalanx involving one-third or more of the articular surface is controversial. Thirty-three digits with such fractures were treated by open reduction and internal fixation with Kirschner wires. Of these 33 fractures, 13 were associated with subluxation of the distal phalanx. After an average follow-up period of 29 months, the average loss of extension of the distal phalanx was 4 degrees, and the average flexion of the distal interphalangeal joint was 67 degrees. Radiographs of the distal joint in 27 digits appeared normal, while in the remaining 6 digits, slight degenerative changes were noted. In one there was a minor surgical complication. By using the operative technique described, a congruous reduction of the inta-articular fracture and satisfactory function were achieved.