Mallet finger

Mallet finger

Mallet finger. This injury is caused by hyperflexion of the distal interphalangeal joint, resulting in avulsion of the attachment of the extensor tendon from the base of the distal phalanx. The fracture fragment is indicated by the arrow in this example. Sometimes, the tendon itself tears rather than avulsing the bone fragment, in which case ultrasound can be used to confirm the injury.