Kristin Valdes1, Nancy Naughton2, Lori Algar3. 1. Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA, USA; Hand Works Therapy, 744the Rialto, Venice, FL 34285, USA. Electronic address: hotglassgal@comcast.net. 2. Professional Orthopedics Associates, Scranton, PA, USA. 3. Northeast Orthopaedic and Hand Surgery, Waterbury, CT, USA.
Abstract
PURPOSE: To determine if there is a superior orthosis and wearing regimen for the conservative treatment of mallet finger injuries. The secondary purpose is to examine the current evidence to evaluate if a night orthosis is necessary following the initial immobilization phase. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the search terms mallet finger, splint, orthosis, and conservative treatment. RESULTS: Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the systematic review. In all 4 RCTs mallet fingers were immobilized continuously for 6 weeks in acute injuries and 8 weeks for chronic injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Two of the three studies found a large effect size for orthotic intervention ranging from 2.17 to 12.12. Increased edema and age and decreased patient adherence seem to negatively influence DIP extension gains. Recommended immobilization duration is between 6 to 8 weeks and with additional weeks of immobilization in cases of persistent lags. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1a.
PURPOSE: To determine if there is a superior orthosis and wearing regimen for the conservative treatment of mallet finger injuries. The secondary purpose is to examine the current evidence to evaluate if a night orthosis is necessary following the initial immobilization phase. METHODS: A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the search terms mallet finger, splint, orthosis, and conservative treatment. RESULTS: Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included in the systematic review. In all 4 RCTs mallet fingers were immobilized continuously for 6 weeks in acute injuries and 8 weeks for chronic injuries. CONCLUSIONS: Two of the three studies found a large effect size for orthotic intervention ranging from 2.17 to 12.12. Increased edema and age and decreased patient adherence seem to negatively influence DIP extension gains. Recommended immobilization duration is between 6 to 8 weeks and with additional weeks of immobilization in cases of persistent lags. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: 1a.
Authors: Santiago Salazar Botero; Juan Jose Hidalgo Diaz; Anissa Benaïda; Sylvie Collon; Sybille Facca; Philippe André Liverneaux Journal: Arch Plast Surg Date: 2016-03-18
Authors: Stephan Alejandro Dávalos Barrios; Arturo Felipe de Jesús Sosa Serrano; Jorge Alberto Gama Herrera; Maria Fernanda Ramírez Berumen; Jose Manuel Pérez Atanasio Journal: Acta Ortop Bras Date: 2020 Jul-Aug Impact factor: 0.513