Kirschner wire tension traction for the treatment of tendinous mallet finger deformity

Abstract

Objective To explore the clinical outcomes of treating tendinous mallet finger deformity with Kirschner wire tension traction. Methods From June 2012 to August 2014, 27 patients (27 fingers) with a tendinous mallet finger deformity were treated with Kirschner wire tension traction. Postoperatively a small splint was applied only to protect the extruding K-wires and allowed free movement of the proximal interphalangeal joint and metacarpophalangeal joint. At 6 weeks postoperatively, the K-wires and traction sutures were removed. Active and passive distal interphalangeal joint exercises were initiated immediately afterwards. Results Two patients were lost for follow-up. The rest 25 patients were follow-up for 9 to 16 months postoperatively, with an average of 13 months. According to Crawford′s evaluation criteria, the results were excellent in 7 cases, good in 15 cases and fair in 3 cases. The overall good-excellent rate was 88%. Conclusion Kirschner wire tension traction is an effective treatment for tendinous mallet finger. The procedure is simple yet corrects the deformity and results in satisfactory joint motion. Key words: Tendon injuries; Surgical procedures, operative; Tendinous mallet finger