High Frequency Ultrasound Used In The Guidance Of Timeframe For Mallet Finger Conservative Treatment

PurposeThe current literature depicts diversiform timeframe for the immobilization of mallet finger conservative treatment,and there is no consensus on the specific timeframe.The aim of this study was to evaluate the value of high frequency ultrasonography about the guidance of timeframe in acute closed mallet finger injury,if any conclusion can be drawn concerning the indication of optimal timeframe according to the ultrasound result.MethodsThis study includes 21 patients with mallet finger.All patients underwent ultrasonography,and results played as tendon laceration,without avulsion fracture,we told the patients to immobilize for 6 weeks and after that they were asked to do ultrasound examination for a second time to see whether the lacerated extensor tendon rejoined together,if not the patients were told to immobilize for another two weeks,and after completely immobilization 4 weeks of nocturnal immobilization was presented.ResultsAfter conservative treatment under the ultrasound examination 18 patients achieved coalesced tendon,and during the active extension the tendon was tough without elongation or breakage,3 patients did the same examination,during the motion the tendon had not accomplish firm healing,so they were asked to immobilize for two weeks more,after they return the tendon showed a tough healing,one of three patients presented with tendon rupture again because after orthoses removed,he pay no attention to our guidance and was asked to immobilize from beginning.Following 4 weeks of nocturnal immobilization,the patients were allowed to remove orthoses and started with exercises to extend injured finger.After 8 months follow-up,18 patients reached excellent result,and 3patients reached good results.ConclusionThe conservative treatment under the direction of sonography guidance is safe and effective,and from the final result most of the patient achieved a satisfactory outcome and return to normal life.Proved the sonography guidance can be an excellent option for deciding timeframe in immobilization for mallet deformity,decrease complication including joint stiffness possibility,the skin maceration and soon.