Treatment of mallet finger fractures by the extension-block K-wire technique

Abstract

We treated 22 patients with mallet finger fractures involving more than one-third of the articular surface by the extension-block K-wire technique. There were 18 men and four women with a mean age of 23 years (range, 14-34). The Wehbé and Schneider method was used to classify the fractures and the results were graded according to Crawford's criteria. All the fractures united, with an average healing time of 5.6 weeks (range, 4-7). At a mean follow-up of 25 months (range, 18-48) 21 mallet finger fractures had an excellent or good result. One patient had a fair result with a lag to extension of 20 degrees. We conclude that the extension-block K-wire technique is an effective method of treatment for displaced mallet finger fractures.