M20.019

Clinical Causes: Direct trauma to the fingertip, such as jamming it against hard surfaces Sudden force that forcibly flexes the fingertip beyond its normal range Injuries involving sports like basketball, volleyball, or football Crush injuries or accidents involving finger pinching

Key Symptoms: Inability to straighten the affected fingertip Persistent drooping or bend at the tip of the finger Swelling around the joint Pain or tenderness at the site of injury Bruising or discoloration Difficulty performing fine motor tasks with the affected finger

Diagnosis Path: Diagnosis involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional, who assesses the range of motion and checks for deformity. Imaging tests, such as X-rays, are often used to determine whether there is an associated fracture of the distal phalanx (the bone at the fingertip). These images help confirm the extent of tendon injury and rule out other causes of finger deformity.

Treatment Protocols: Treatment options depend on the severity of the injury. The primary goal is to realign the fingertip to restore normal function. Common approaches include: - Non-surgical management with splinting: Wearing a finger splint continuously for 6 to 8 weeks to keep the fingertip straight, promoting healing of the tendon. - Surgical intervention: Required if there is a fracture involving the joint or if the injury does not respond to splinting. Surgery involves repairing the torn tendon or fixing bone fragments. - Pain management: Use of over-the-counter pain relievers and ice application to reduce swelling. - Rehabilitation exercises: After splint removal, gentle exercises may be recommended to restore movement and strength. Early treatment improves the likelihood of full recovery, while delayed intervention might lead to permanent deformity or loss of function.