What is the definition or description of: mallet finger?

Tear of the tendon: Mallet finger is caused by a tear of the extensor tendon at the joint closer to the fingertip. It happens most commonly from a trauma which causes sudden flexion of the joint. The patient will notice that a 'droop' is present with the fingertip and is unable to extend at the joint. The good news is that most can be handled nonoperatively with splinting anywhere from 6-8 weeks. See a hand doc.

Disrupted DIP: A mallet finger can be traumatic or degenerative in origin. Characterized by the disruption of the extensor complex to the distal phalanx. The tip of the finger remains in a flexed position with an extensor lag or inability to completely straighten the finger at the dip joint. Treated with splints or surgical repair.

Torn Tendon: A mallet finger is a tear of the tendon that brings the end joint on the finger up. These are treated with continual splinting for 6-8 weeks.

Torn extensor tendon: A mallet finger deformity occurs when a force is applied to the finger that tears the extensor tendon off the bone at the last joint. (dip joint). It may simply tear the tendon, or also avulse a small piece of bone. Most mallet fingers can be treated by 6 weeks of splinting the dip joint in extension. A qualified md should assess.

Tendon rupture: A rupture of the tendon which straightens the tip of your finger. This cause the finger to have a drooped appearance.