Abstract

Mallet finger is a common deformity caused by injury to the extensor mechanism at the distal imer-phalangeal joint. A bony mallet finger is a similar injury, but it is associated with a fracture at the base of the distal phalanx. The various metbods advocated for the treatment of the bony mallet finger include neglect, splintage and operation. Open reduction to restore congruity of the joint surfaces has been recommanded. Because of the small size of the fracture fragement and the deforming pull of the terminal extensor tendon, inter-nal fixation is often frustraring. We have treated 7 cases of bony mallet finger with the mothod of figure of 8 tension band fixation using absorbable synthetic suture at the Deparhnent of Orthopedic Surgtery, Seoul National University Hospital from Jan. 1985 to Dec. 1986. With a stringent rating system there were five excellent and two good end results. Figure of 8 tension band fixation using absorbable synthetic suture was seemed to be one of the valuable methods in the treatment of bony mallet finger.