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Central slip tenotomy for chronic mallet finger
1Department of Orthopaedic and Trauma Surgery, Doncaster Royal Infirmary, Armthorpe Road, Doncaster DN2 5LT, United Kingdom.
Summary
Central slip tenotomy effectively treats chronic mallet finger, significantly improving extensor lag. This surgical intervention offers good to excellent results for many patients with this condition.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Hand Surgery
- Reconstructive Surgery
Background:
- Chronic mallet finger often results in persistent extensor lag at the distal interphalangeal joint.
- Surgical intervention may be considered for recalcitrant cases unresponsive to conservative management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the efficacy of central slip tenotomy for chronic mallet finger.
- To assess functional outcomes and complication rates following this surgical procedure.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective audit of twenty-three consecutive patients undergoing central slip tenotomy for chronic mallet finger.
- Analysis of pre-operative and post-operative extensor lag at the distal interphalangeal joint.
- Clinical grading of surgical outcomes and documentation of complications.
Main Results:
- Mean pre-operative extensor lag of 44 degrees improved to a mean of 7 degrees post-operatively.
- 12 excellent, 6 good, 3 fair, and 2 poor results were reported based on a clinical grading system.
- Complications included one infection and two cases of post-operative proximal interphalangeal joint extensor lag, managed with splinting and therapy.
Conclusions:
- Central slip tenotomy demonstrates significant efficacy in correcting extensor lag for chronic mallet finger.
- The procedure yields a high rate of good to excellent outcomes with manageable complications.
