Closed reduction of mallet fractures using extension-block Kirschner wire.

Abstract

Fourteen cases of mallet fingers with a displaced large fracture fragment and/or a subluxated distal phalanx were treated by closed reduction using extension-block Kirschner wire. The follow-up evaluations took place after a mean of 9 months. The results according to Crawford's criteria were eight excellent, four good, one fair, and one poor. This technique is simple, is easier than other techniques for reduction of mallet fractures, and is associated with a low morbidity.