Also called a dropped finger, this injury results from hyperflexion to the distal interphalangeal joint. There is a dorsal avulsion fracture of the base of the distal phalanx. This indicates that the common extensor tendon remains attached to this avulsed fragment. The injury is typical at the second digit as the result of forced hyperflexion (catching a ball).

A	Oblique radiograph of the second digit. This demonstrates an avulsion fracture of the dorsal aspect of the distal phalanx.

Links to online textbooks

• Wheeless' Orthopedics: discussion of mallet fractures

References:

• Schneider LH: Fractures of the distal interphalangeal joint Hand Clin. 1994 May;10(2):277-85.           [See related articles]
• McCue FC 3d, Meister K: Common sports hand injuries. An overview of aetiology, management and prevention Sports Med. 1993 Apr;15(4):281-9.           [See related articles]

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