[Clinical aspects and therapy of extensor tendon avulsion in the distal phalanx of the finger (author's transl)].

Avulsion of the extensor tendon of the terminal phalanx of the finger is the most frequent form of all subcutaneous tendon ruptures. The rupture may occur in the tendinous part or cause a fracture of the bone in the region of the insertion. Healing requires at least 5-6 weeks conservative therapy with a Stack's splint being attempted first. Surgical fixation of the terminal joint with Kirschner wire should only be carried out in exceptional cases because of the risk of infection and damage to the joint. Operative union of the ends of the tendon is only immediately indicated with open tendon severance and in old injuries in which complete severing of the tendon can be recognized. If tendon regeneration is unsatisfactory, the Georg method of purse-string suture with temporary arthrodesis is recommended later.