Base of distal phalanx fracture in children: a mallet finger mimic.

The authors present a series of seven juxtaepiphyseal fractures at the base of the distal phalanx of the finger. Prior to closure of the epiphysis, the fracture line is usually through the growth plate (Salter-Harris type I or II) or 1 to 2 mm distal to the plate. Clinically the injury looks like a mallet finger, but the pathoanatomy is not that of the classic mallet. All seven of these fractures were treated by closed reduction, six fractures were fixed by a Kirschner wire, and one was held by splinting only. All healed without complications.