A Biomechanical Study of Distal Interphalangeal Joint Subluxation After Mallet Fracture Injury

Fracture–Dislocation About the Finger Joints

“…Clinical and laboratory examinations have confirmed that the DIP joint will remain concentric when less than 43% of the joint surface is fractured. 26,27 Subluxation is consistently observed when more than 52% of the articular surface is compromised. 26,27 Treatment and outcomes At this time, there is no consensus indication for surgical management of palmar DIP joint fracture-dislocations.…”

Phalanx fractures and dislocations in athletes

“…With respect to articular fractures at the dorsal base of the distal phalanx (the so-called bony mallet injuries), a relative indication for surgical repair is volar subluxation of the distal phalanx. An osteochondral fracture involving more than 50% of the joint surface has been shown biomechanically to predispose the DIP joint to volar subluxation [30]. Surgical stabilization of these fractures includes a variety of K-wire fixation methods, in addition to small hook plates and screws.…”

Surgical Techniques for Correction of Traumatic Hyperextension Instability of the Proximal Interphalangeal Joint: A Biomechanical Study

“…Within each specimen, the flexor tendons were combined. In the index fingers, the extensor indicis proprius and extensor digitorum communis tendons were similarly combined as described by Husain et al 25 The intramedullary canal of each proximal phalanx was hand-reamed using a 3.5-mm drill bit, and a threaded bolt with a 3.7-mm outer diameter was inserted to a press fit. Thirty fingers assigned to the 5 surgical procedures underwent a simulated hyperextension injury to the PIP joint, whereas the PIP joints in the 6 control specimens were left undisturbed.…”

“…The number of cycles was selected based on a published report in which the authors estimated that 1,200 cycles simulated full flexion and extension of the fingers 5 times/h for 16 h/d for 2 weeks. 25 Each specimen was grossly examined for failure of the surgical technique.…”